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SACRAMENTO, CA— On Friday October 18th, Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (D-Colton) celebrated the signing of AB 2033, the EBT Access for Student Empowerment (EASE) Act, at a joint event hosted by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and San Bernardino Valley College. The event took place at the “Den Coffee Shop” located at San Bernardino Valley College. AB 2033 addresses the student hunger crisis faced on campuses across California by making it possible for students to use Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) across California’s three college systems. This legislation was co-sponsored by the Student Senate for the California Community Colleges, the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges, and uAspire, a nonprofit focused on improving the economic mobility of underrepresented students.

“I am grateful to Governor Newsom for signing AB 2033 into law and want to thank our robust coalition of supporters, including the Community College Chancellor’s Office for helping get this across the finish line,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “Student hunger is directly linked to academic achievement, and we know that food insecure students are more likely to report lower GPAs given the externalities they face. AB 2033 is a step forward in our efforts to end student food insecurity across California.”

“By accepting EBT, college campuses are doing their part to promote food security. If students do not have to worry about where they will get their next meal, they can learn and thrive in school. This should be an ultimate goal for all of us,” said Dr. Sonya Christian, Chancellor of the California Community Colleges. “I applaud Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes for authoring AB 2033 and I thank the Governor for signing this important legislation.”

“AB 2033 ensures that our colleges continue to be the open door of opportunity for students. By addressing food insecurity, we are helping students stay in school, graduate, and build better futures,” said Dr. Diana Z. Rodriguez, Chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District. “That investment doesn’t just pay off for them—it strengthens our economy and lifts up our entire community.”

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— Edward Ornelas Jr., President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and owner of the Inland Empire Business Journal, has been named a finalist in the famed 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards. Ornelas is honored in the Social Entrepreneur category for his remarkable leadership and vision in fostering business growth and development across the Inland Empire. The award ceremony will take place on November 21, 2024, at the Riverside Convention Center, celebrating the best of entrepreneurship throughout the region.

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards, often regarded as the “Oscars of Business” in the Inland Empire, recognizes the innovation, leadership, and impact of outstanding entrepreneurs across various sectors. Ornelas joins a select group of 34 finalists, each representing the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience that define the I.E. business community. The Social Entrepreneur category highlights individuals like Ornelas, whose work goes beyond profit to positively impact society.

In his role as President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, Ornelas has been a powerful advocate for the business community, connecting small businesses with essential resources and creating opportunities for growth. As the owner of the IE Business Journal, the only publication in the region dedicated solely to business news, Ornelas has provided a platform for local businesses to thrive by sharing their stories and promoting their success. His innovative, forward-thinking approach to marketing has earned him a reputation as a “visionary” and a “get-things-done” leader across both public and private sectors.

“I’m deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards. This nomination is a reflection of the incredible businesses and community leaders across the Inland Empire who inspire me every day. At the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, our mission is to empower businesses and foster economic growth, and this recognition highlights the collective efforts of our entire community. I’m excited for what the future holds as we continue to work together to make a lasting impact,” said Ornelas.

Other notable finalists for the 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards include leaders in healthcare innovation, green technology, and digital transformation. Each finalist, selected by a distinguished panel of judges, represents the best in their respective industries and contributes to the Inland Empire’s continued growth as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards is an annual event that brings together business leaders, community advocates, and entrepreneurs to celebrate the entrepreneurial excellence that drives the region’s economy. This year’s event promises to be a night of inspiration and recognition, showcasing the achievements of finalists like Ornelas, who continue to elevate the Inland Empire’s business landscape.

For more information about the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards and to see the full list of finalists, visit www.spiritawardsie.com.

About Edward Ornelas:

Edward Ornelas is the President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and owner of the IE Business Journal. Through his leadership of both organizations, Ornelas is dedicated to advancing the growth and success of businesses throughout the Inland Empire. To learn more about either organization, visit www.iechamber.org or www.iebizjournal.com.

About the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards:

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards honors the top entrepreneurs in the Inland Empire for their leadership, innovation, and impact on the community. Since its inception, the awards have recognized hundreds of entrepreneurs whose work drives the region’s economy and culture forward.

YUCAIPA, CA – Just in time for Halloween, the Crafton Hills College (CHC) Theatre program will present a spine-chillingly unique production of Dracula to get audiences into the spirit of the season. This immersive performance promises to be both thrilling and unforgettable.

Based on Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel, the play uses an epistolary style—told through letters and diary entries— perfect for creating multiple physical stages where the dramatic action unfolds.

Due to the interactive nature of this experience, only 40 tickets will be available for each of the six performances, so don’t wait to secure your seat!

The showtimes are:

Friday, October 18, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, October 19, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, October 20, 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.

Tickets are available at craftonhills.edu/tickets.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced $531,000 in grant funding for two nonprofit housing assistance programs in San Bernardino to address the affordable housing crisis.

The funding comes as part of the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development’s NeighborWorks America’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Grants. Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services (NPHS) will receive $327,000 in grant funding, and Neighborhood Housing Service of the Inland Empire (NHSIE) will receive $204,000 in grant funding.

“This funding is a step forward in further addressing the affordable housing crisis that continues to put the American Dream of homeownership out of reach for so many families in San Bernardino,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I appreciate the efforts of organizations like NPHS and NHSIE, which work at the forefront of ensuring that families have access to safe, affordable homes. Together, we’re building more housing, stronger communities and brighter futures for our residents.”

“The funding from NeighborWorks America empowers NPHS to uplift underserved communities across the Inland Valley,” said Clemente Mojica, NPHS CEO. “This support will enable NPHS to create affordable and stable housing for low-to-moderate income families, fostering opportunities where all families can achieve housing and economic security.”

“This federal allocation is a game-changer for our community,” said Kailin Scott Peoples, CEO/Executive Director of NHSIE. “It will allow us to significantly expand our efforts to continue services while pursuing new innovative approaches to provide safe, stable housing for those who need it most. We’re deeply grateful for this investment, which recognizes that affordable housing is fundamental to the health and prosperity of our entire society. With these funds, we can build more than just homes – we’re building hope, opportunity, and a stronger future for countless families.”

The NeighborWorks America funding supports the following programs for low-to-moderate-income families and small businesses: affordable housing developments, down payment assistance programs, neighborhood revitalization projects, community wealth-building initiatives, environmental sustainability programs and services for small businesses.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Participation in dual enrollment high school and community college programs has increased among students in California. However, the percentage of Black and Latino high school students enrolled in dual enrollment programs has decreased in recent years, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of California Davis.

California policymakers and educators are integrating dual enrollment as a key mechanism for improving educational attainment, ensuring students have equal access to postsecondary opportunities. State legislators increased funding to expand dual enrollment programs under Assembly Bill 288 authored by Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena), a law that helps facilitate collaboration between high schools and community colleges. California made an annual investment of $200 million for high school students. The state also allocated $10 million for the STEM Pathways Grant program that supports creating 6-year programs for students to graduate with a high school diploma and an associate degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics within 2 years of graduating high school.

Despite California’s investment over the years, the study revealed that the number of Black and Latino high school students enrolled in community college courses has declined since 2020. The enrollment gap between Asian-Pacific Islander students, who have the highest participation rate, and Black students doubled from 7 % in 2019 to 14.5% in 2022.

“For students whose life circumstances, such as economic hardship, may inhibit educational pursuits, opportunities to enroll in community college while in high school may be less accessible,” researchers stated.

Participation rates in dual enrollment programs are lower among socioeconomically disadvantaged students, English learners, youth in foster care, and students with disabilities compared to their counterparts. The research study attributed the steady decline in enrollment rates to the COVID-19 pandemic.

By Angela M. Coggs

On September 29, 2024, the eyes of San Bernardino were focused on State Farm Stadium, in Glendale, Arizona, where their hometown hero, Jayden Daniels, took the field as the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders. In just his third NFL game as a rookie, Daniels faced off against the Arizona Cardinals, but it wasn’t just any ordinary game—it was a day of pride and celebration for his family, friends, and fans from his hometown.

A Rising Star

Jayden Daniels, a standout from Cajon High School in San Bernardino, has been a source of inspiration for the local community since his high school days. His athleticism, leadership, and work ethic on the field at Cajon earned him a scholarship to Arizona State University (ASU) and played three seasons, where he became one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in college football. He later transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) where he exploded in front of the world and won the Heisman in 2023. After a successful collegiate career, Daniels was drafted by the Washington Commanders in the 2024 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the talented signal-caller.

His meteoric rise to the professional stage has been a point of pride for the San Bernardino community. From youth football leagues to high school glory, Daniels’ journey embodies the dreams of countless young athletes in the region. His hard work, dedication, and perseverance have transformed him into a role model, not just for aspiring football players, but for anyone striving to achieve their goals against the odds.

A Day of Unity and Celebration

When Daniels was named the starter for the Washington Commanders only after his first two NFL games, the San Bernardino community rallied to support their hometown hero against the Arizona Cardinals, it was only a one-hour flight or four-hour drive.  Approximately 100 family members, friends, former coaches, former teachers, current school board member, former principal, and local fans organized trips to attend the game, while many attended on their own to witness Daniels’ first game near his hometown of San Bernardino, California, as a rookie starter. For those who couldn’t make the trip to Arizona, local bars, restaurants, and even parks hosted watch parties, creating a sense of collective pride.

At State Farm Stadium, a strong contingent of supporters from San Bernardino could be seen wearing Commanders jerseys emblazoned with Daniels’ name and number five. Their presence was felt in the stands as they cheered every snap, throw, and scramble by their hometown quarterback.

“It’s surreal to see someone from our town on this stage,” said Coach Nick Rodgers, who coached Daniels at Cajon High School. “He’s always had that ‘it’ factor, and to see him living his dream is an incredible moment for all of us who’ve been a part of his journey.”

A Promising Start to an NFL Career

In just his third NFL game, Daniels has shown promise as a rookie quarterback. His dual-threat ability, honed during his college years, has been a key feature of his early NFL career. Although the Washington Commanders entered the game with a 2-1 record, Daniels had already impressed with his ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate downfield throws.

Against the Arizona Cardinals, Daniels demonstrated poise under pressure, connecting with his receivers for crucial gains and keeping the defense on its heels with his mobility. Though he is still adjusting to the speed of the professional game, his potential is clear, and many believe he could be a key piece of the Commanders’ future success. The Commanders beat the Cardinals 42-14. At one point Daniels waited for a couple of blockers and then weaved forward for a 9- yard touchdown run, flipped the ball behind his back before doing a little dance and flashing his bright smile. Washington Redskins legendary quarterback Doug Williams  was on the sidelines and the camera caught a glimpse of him providing some encouraging words and inspiration to the young quarterback.

A Symbol of Hope

For the San Bernardino community, Jayden Daniels represents more than just athletic success—he symbolizes hope. In a city that has faced its share of challenges, Daniels’ story of resilience and achievement serves as a reminder that with dedication and support, dreams can become reality.

Community members, whether they knew him personally or followed his career from afar, are inspired by his journey. Daniels’ rise to the NFL shows that despite the obstacles young people may face, hard work and determination can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

Looking Forward

As Jayden Daniels continues his rookie season, the support from San Bernardino will undoubtedly grow stronger. His journey has only just begun, but his impact on the field and within his community is already profound. Every throw, every touchdown, and every win are celebrated not just in Washington, D.C., but by a community thousands of miles away that continues to root for one of its own.

For San Bernardino, September 29, 2024, will be remembered as a day when their hero took to the field and brought them along on his journey to NFL stardom.

The Washington Commanders are currently 4-1 in the NFC and Daniels has been breaking records after every game. This is the first team since 1970 to score 150 plus points in their first five games while starting a rookie quarterback.

“It feels good that we’re able to execute the gameplan, but we’ve still got room to grow,” Daniels said.

By Angela M. Coggs

On September 7, 2024, the San Bernardino Riverside Area Alumnae Chapter (SBRAAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., hosted a heartwarming and inspiring prayer breakfast that brought together members and community leaders under the theme, “Coming Together in Love to Reach, Restore, and Impact Our Communities.” Held at the Sterling Natural Resource Center in San Bernardino, this spiritually uplifting event centered on fostering love and unity to make a positive difference in the local community.

Dr. Stephanie Davis-Carruth, SBRAAC 1st Vice President, who served as the Mistress of Ceremonies, opened the event by welcoming everyone with grace and setting the tone for a morning filled with reflection and inspiration. An engaging Ice Breaker activity presented by SFeledier “Let” Thrower followed, bringing attendees together in a lighthearted but meaningful way, helping to establish a sense of unity among participants.

The event was enriched by two moving musical performance by soloist Corinthian Buffington and Yolanda Dancy, whose powerful voice captivated the audience. Both songs created a contemplative atmosphere, enhancing the sense of spiritual community in the room.

The keynote address, delivered by Pastor Samuel J. Casey, was the true highlight of the morning. Pastor Casey, Senior Pastor of New Life Christian Church in Fontana, California, and the executive director of Congregations Organized for Prophetic Engagement (C.O.P.E.), offered a stirring and motivational message. His words energized the entire room, reminding everyone of the power of love, faith, and action in making lasting impacts in their communities. Pastor Casey emphasized the importance of community solidarity, calling for each individual to be a force for restoration and positive change in their neighborhoods.

Dr. Shene’ Bowie-Hussey, SBRAAC’s chapter president, further highlighted the chapter’s mission to reach out to underserved communities and restore hope where it is needed most. She applauded the efforts of the sorority members and encouraged continued engagement in social action initiatives.

A well-organized Social Action Presentation followed, focusing on the vital issue of voter registration. The presentation outlined the critical importance of being informed and engaged in the electoral process at the local, state, and national levels. With upcoming elections on the horizon, the presentation aimed to mobilize attendees to not only register themselves but also encourage others in their communities to exercise their right to vote.

The event was funded in part by a grant from BEI, showcasing the chapter’s commitment to fostering partnerships that support their community outreach goals.

SBRAAC’s September Prayer Breakfast left attendees feeling empowered, united, and ready to take actionable steps toward improving their communities. Through heartfelt speeches, uplifting music, and vital social action education, the event truly embodied its theme, bringing Sorors and guest together in love to reach, restore, and impact the world around them.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

Prop 4 proposes issuing $10 billion in bonds to fund state and local parks, environmental protection projects, water infrastructure projects, energy projects, and flood protection projects. Additionally, 40% of the bond revenue would be used to fund activities that benefit communities with lower incomes or that are affected by environmental changes or disasters.

$3.8 billion would help pay to improve drinking water systems and prepare for droughts and floods. Another $1.5 billion would go to programs focused on wildfire preparedness and $1.2 billion would go to programs combating the rise of the sea level. The remaining funds would be divided up.

Supporters of the proposition argue that the threat climate change brings to the state is an immediate one. Issues like wildfires, water pollution, and extreme heat call for funding to be directed towards countering the effects of climate change. Several environmental groups are backing the measure as well.

Supporters say urgency to push for the proposition increased even more when Gov. Gavin Newsom scaled back the “California Climate Commitment,” which originally was a $54.3 billion spending package. In the most recent budget, it was cut to $44.6 billion.

Katelyn Roedner Sutter, State Director of the California Environmental Defense Fund, is on record saying, “We need to be not only helping communities adapt to climate change right now, but we also need to be reducing our climate pollution. This is not a problem that can wait until it’s convenient to fund in the budget.”

Ariana Rickard, public policy and funding program manager for Sonoma Land Trust, added, “Every Californian has felt the impact of the climate crisis, whether it is wildfires, extreme heat, flooding, sea level rise. I feel like this will resonate with voters who want to protect themselves and their communities.”

The bond measure would also require the Secretary of the Natural Resources Agency to publish a list of programs and projects on the agency’s website for the public, increasing transparency and accountability with the public. The measure would require the report to list the project’s location, objective, status, anticipated outcomes, total cost, amount of bond funding, and any matching funds.

Opponents argue that using bonds to pay for what they call “unproven technologies” is not the most prudent way to approach the issues. They believe the state should pay for projects like this without taking on more debt.

Governments, corporations and municipalities issue bonds when they need capital. An investor who buys a government bond is lending the government money. If an investor buys a corporate bond, the investor is lending the corporation money. Like a loan, a bond pays interest periodically and repays the principal at a stated time, known as maturity. Taxpayers eventually are burdened with paying for the bonds the Government issues.

Howard Jarvis of the Taxpayers Association is on the record stating that “These bonds will be paid by people decades from now that didn’t even get to vote for their authorization.”

A “yes” vote supports the state issuing $10 billion in bonds to fund state and local parks, environmental protection projects, water infrastructure projects, energy projects, and flood protection projects.

A “no” vote opposes the state issuing $10 billion in bonds to fund state and local parks, environmental protection projects, water infrastructure projects, energy projects, and flood protection projects.

SACRAMENTO, CA – The Contractors State License Board (CSLB) recently conducted a successful two-day undercover sting in Menifee targeting unlicensed contractors. CSLB’s Statewide Investigative Fraud Team (SWIFT) worked with the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and Menifee Police Department in identifying 12 people allegedly engaging in illegal contracting activities.

During the sting operation on September 24 and 25, suspected unlicensed contractors were asked to submit bids for various construction projects, resulting in 12 individuals being served with notices to appear in criminal court. Additionally, three others will be referred to the Riverside County District Attorney for similar violations.

All bids exceeded the legal limit of $500 for unlicensed work, with amounts ranging from $2,300 to $31,590 for landscaping, painting, and masonry projects. Under California law, it is illegal for unlicensed contractors to bid or work on projects costing more than $500, including labor and materials.

Penalties for these violations include administrative fines of up to $15,000, jail sentences of up to six months, and fines up to $5,000. Repeat offenders may face a mandatory 90-day jail sentence and a fine of $5,000 or 20 percent of the contract price, whichever is greater.

“CSLB is committed to safeguarding homeowners from the dangers posed by unlicensed contractors,” said CSLB Registrar David Fogt. “We strive to consistently inform consumers about the value of hiring licensed contractors and strongly encourage California homeowners to check a contractor’s license before beginning any construction project.”

Six individuals also requested down payments above the legal limit. Down payments for home improvement projects cannot exceed 10 percent of the project cost or $1,000, whichever is less. Violating this law is a misdemeanor, carrying fines up to $5,000 and possible jail time.

For further information or to report suspected unlicensed contractor activities, please visit the CSLB website at www.cslb.ca.gov or contact CSLB toll-free at 1-800-321-CSLB (2752). For ongoing information and updates from CSLB, connect with us on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About CSLB: CSLB operates under the umbrella of the Department of Consumer Affairs and licenses and regulates about 285,000 contractors in California.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— This week, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced that he secured $959,757 in federal funding for the City of San Bernardino’s Arrowhead Farms Septic to Sewer Project. This critical funding will connect properties within the Arrowhead Farms community to municipal sewer services at no cost to participating property owners, increasing property values for homeowners and reducing the risk of costly environmental hazards associated with septic tanks.

“I am proud to help secure this funding to facilitate the Septic to Sewer Project aimed at raising property values for these homeowners while addressing the environmental risks associated with outdated septic systems,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I’ll continue to fight for more resources to raise the quality of life for working families in the Inland Empire and make our neighborhoods safer.”

“This money would alleviate some of the pressure on our residents, which will provide them with sewer, and a cleaner community,” said Joe Baca, Jr., Fifth District Supervisor, San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. “This funding is all the more important for an underserved community like Arrowhead Farms.”

“Thank you to Congressman Aguilar for securing needed funds for this Septic to Sewer project.  This project is the first step toward providing safe, reliable wastewater services for Arrowhead Farms and better water quality for San Bernardino. We deeply appreciate the support of Congressman Aguilar and Supervisor Baca working together to improve local infrastructure and enhance quality of life in our community,” said Miguel Guerrero, General Manager, San Bernardino Municipal Water Department.

The Septic to Sewer Project offers free sewer connections, saving up to $35,000 in construction and connection fees, increasing property value, and reducing or eliminating septic system maintenance costs. Additionally, it will improve public health by preventing pollution from aging septic tanks, which can leak harmful contaminants like nitrates and fecal coliform into the environment. The project eliminates the risk of these hazardous spills and the associated remediation expenses.

In March 2024, Rep. Aguilar helped pass the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, which included over $17 million in federal investments for 15 local projects across the region Rep. Aguilar represents in Congress.

Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and as a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.