Local

By Mary D. Welch

Today, you’re witnessing a dream come true! My fascination with the movie industry has always been strong, and I’ve spent a lot of time figuring out how to break into it. As you might know, I started my writing career with Children’s Books. While I’ve continued to write and publish in that genre, I’ve also ventured into screenwriting.

On top of that, I’ve been working on movie sets, and here’s a surprising twist—I’ve got a couple of scenes in the movie that was wrapped up last Friday! I can’t even begin to describe how thrilling it was to be a part of those scenes. Even if I end up on the cutting room floor, it was an experience worth every moment!

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to follow your dreams, wherever they may lead. I’m absolutely loving what I’m doing, even though I never imagined it would be possible. Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I continue to write Children’s Books and screenplays. Taking risks in life is the only way to truly live. Will you always win? Not necessarily, but as Nelson Mandela wisely said, “You will never lose; you will only learn.”

I’m at the start of this exciting and nerve-wracking journey, and I’m so glad you’re here with me. You are always appreciated and loved. Embrace your purpose, and if you’re not sure what it is yet, that’s okay—give yourself the grace to discover it. Try out classes and activities that interest you, and remember, it’s all about having fun without any pressure!

I have so much to learn, and I mean that sincerely, but I’m having an incredible time along the way. While Children’s Books will always hold a special place in my heart, I’m thoroughly enjoying the path of writing movies. I’ll keep you updated on my progress and let you know what’s happening.

Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program, covers one in three Californians, including more than 50 percent of the state’s youth. In California, nearly 300,000 youth are coping with depression, and 66 percent of them do not get the help they need, according to Governor Newsom’s Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health.

Black children and children of color make up nearly 75 percent of children on Medi-Cal, yet they face significant barriers to accessing mental health services. Despite an overall decline in the suicide rate in California, youth — particularly Black, Latino, and female Californians — have seen disproportionate increases in suicide rates. According to data from 2022, about 4.3 percent of low-income teens on Medi-Cal have undergone depression screenings and received follow-up treatment. Among Indigenous youth, the screening rate is a little more than half that (2.3 percent). However, more screenings are probably occurring that are not being reported due to data capture issues.

To improve access to Medi-Cal mental health services, DHCS implemented a “No Wrong Door” approach to seeking care. In other words, any Medi-Cal member can receive timely access to covered mental health services regardless of where they first seek care, whether at a county mental health office or their Medi-Cal health plan.

Medi-Cal Covered Mental Health Services

Medi-Cal covers a wide range of services to support the emotional, psychological, and social needs of members. Medi-Cal can cover such services as:

• Individual, group, and family therapy
• Crisis counseling
• Case management
• Medication for mental health conditions
• Depression and anxiety screenings
• Drug and alcohol treatment services
• Other treatments for significant or complex mental health as necessary

Paula Wilhelm, Deputy Director for Behavioral Health at the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), emphasized the state’s commitment to transforming behavioral health services, which covers both mental health and substance use disorder treatment, under Medi-Cal.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health, and all of our health outcomes are intertwined,” Wilhelm said. “DHCS is partnering with health plans and care providers to transform the way behavioral health services are delivered to Medi-Cal members.”

Governor Gavin Newsom’s Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) is a monumental investment in strengthening mental health services for young Californians. This initiative focuses on prevention, wellness, screening, assessment, outpatient, and community-based treatment.

Mental Health Virtual Services Apps

In January 2024, DHCS, in collaboration with Kooth and Brightline, launched two mental health virtual services platforms, which you can download as android and apple apps, BrightLife Kids for children aged 0-12 and Soluna for teenagers and young adults aged 13-25.

These platforms connect individuals to free coaching and provide educational content, assessment tools, care navigation services, peer communities, and crisis and safety protocols to all California youth and their families, regardless of insurance coverage.

These services aim to complement existing mental health services by offering additional care options and resources for parents, caregivers, children, youth, and young adults in California. If you experience long wait times to see a mental health counselor, check out these apps to connect to individual or group coaching.

Get Started Today

If you or your child need mental health services, contact your Medi-Cal health plan, which will assess your needs and refer you to get help.

In Riverside County and San Bernardino County, Medi-Cal members can contact:

*   Inland Empire Health Plan: 800-440-4347

*   Kaiser Permanente: 855-839-7613

*   Molina HealthCare of California Partner Plan, Inc.: 888-665-4621

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Some individuals have dedicated their lives to serving others, going above and beyond in their contributions. “We are looking for Black Heroes and Sheroes in the IE,” said Carl M. Dameron, President of the Black Culture Foundation.

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., the Black Culture Foundation will honor and celebrate the remarkable work of these individuals at the 33rd Annual Black Rose Awards in the Santos Manuel Student Union at Cal State San Bernardino.

“If you know of a remarkable Black leader or someone deeply committed to improving the community for everyone in the Inland Empire, the Black Culture Foundation is eager to learn about them. We are actively seeking nominations for the 33rd Annual Black Rose awards,” said Dameron.

“We are searching for individuals whose volunteer efforts surpass their job-related activities,” said Black Rose Founder Jim King. “These are the unsung heroes—individuals who volunteer with multiple organizations or dedicate their spare time to one or more. They do not seek recognition but endeavor to improve their community and make it a better place to live.”

To nominate a remarkable person for a Black Rose Award, go online to sbbcfoundation.org. Nominations are due by September 30, 2024, at 5:00 pm.

As Dameron explained, the awards program is dedicated to honoring the Black community in the Inland Empire. However, it’s important to note that recipients of the award are not required to be Black.

Over the years, numerous community leaders in law enforcement, education, and other public arenas have been celebrated and presented with an award for their impactful contributions to the Inland Empire.

“Join us in celebrating and honoring the significant contributions of the Black community in The Inland Empire. By becoming a committee member, you can play a vital role in shaping the Black Rose Awards program and the Black History Parade. To take the lead as a member or committee chair, sign up online at https://sbbcfoundation.org,” said King.

The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra is proud to present The Josh Nelson Ensemble performing “This is Jazz: A Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald and Chet Baker,” on Saturday, September 7th at 3 p.m. at the historic San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium.

Previous Symphony attendees will remember Nelson’s outstanding piano skills from past editions of our annual jazz series, and this year his musical colleagues include vocalist Angie Wells, trumpeter Kye Palmer, bassist Chris Colangelo, drummer Dan Schnelle, and vocalist/pianist John Proulx.

Symphony Associate Conductor Raphaela Lacerda, who recently conducted the cinematic score for Beverly Hills Cop 4, will host the event.

The repertoire – which begins with a duet to “They Can’t Take that Away From Me,” will be filled with Ms. Fitzgerald’s iconic covers including “Summertime,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Cheek to Cheek,” and “Someone to Watch Over Me,” and some of Mr. Baker’s most beloved tunes including “But Not for Me,” “Let’s Get Lost,” “Long Ago and Far Away,” “My Funny Valentine,” and “I Fall in Love Too Easily.”

A Queen and a Prince

Regarded by many as one of the finest ever jazz singers, Ella Fitzgerald – sometimes referred to as the “First Lady of Song,” “Queen of Jazz,” and “Lady Ella” – was noted for her purity of tone, impeccable diction, phrasing, timing, intonation, and a “horn-like” improvisational ability, particularly in her scat singing.

After a tumultuous adolescence, Fitzgerald found stability in musical success with the Chick Webb Orchestra, performing across the country, but most often associated with the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem. Her rendition of the nursery rhyme “A-Tisket, A-Tasket” helped boost both her and Webb to national fame (plan to hear that September 7th!) After signing with Verve Records, she recorded some of her more widely noted works, particularly her interpretations of the Great American Songbook.

Fitzgerald also appeared in films and as a guest on popular television shows in the second half of the twentieth century. Outside her solo career, she created music with Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and The Ink Spots. These partnerships produced songs such as “Dream a Little Dream of Me,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall,” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing).” Her accolades included 14 Grammy Awards, the National Medal of Arts, the NAACP‘s inaugural President’s Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Chesney Henry “Chet” Baker Jr. was an American jazz trumpeter and vocalist. He is known for major innovations in cool jazz that led him to be nicknamed the “Prince of Cool”.

Baker earned much attention and critical praise through the 1950s, particularly for two albums featuring his vocals: Chet Baker Sings (1954) and It Could Happen to You (1958). He regularly collaborated and with jazz greats Charlie Parker and Gerry Mulligan.

Jazz historian Dave Gelly described the promise of Baker’s early career as “James Dean, Sinatra, and Bix, rolled into one.” Sadly, his well-publicized drug habit also drove his notoriety and fame and Baker was in and out of jail frequently before enjoying a career resurgence in the late 1970s and 1980s. But his talent did not fade and he was inducted into the Big Band and Jazz Hall of Fame in 1987, into the DownBeat Magazine Jazz Hall of Fame in 1989, the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame in 199, and the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001.

Tickets and Location Details

Tickets for “This is Jazz” are available at $20-$100 per seat and may be purchased by clicking any photo in this email, or by going online to the Symphony website at www.sanbernardinosymphony.org, or by phone at (909) 381-5388 Monday through Friday between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Seats for students and Active military are available for $15.

San Bernardino Valley College is located at 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino. The Auditorium located in the north end of campus facing Mt. Vernon. Free parking is available adjacent to the Auditorium on concert day.

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media??

California Senate and Assembly Republicans are rallying against Senate Bill (SB) 94, legislation that would allow people sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole to petition the court for a lighter sentence.

The bill authored by Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose), would enable the court to resentence people imprisoned without the possibility of parole if the individual has served a minimum of 25 years and if their offense occurred before June 5, 1990.

According to SB 94, only individuals convicted under “special circumstance murder” would be eligible to petition for a new sentence. The proposed law would not apply to individuals that committed murder in an egregious manner such as torture, poison, lying in wait, rape by instrument, mayhem, and other offenses, according to Cortese.

Republican Senators released an extensive analysis of the bill outlining how it undermines public safety and arguing that the early release of violent criminals is “an affront to victims, their families and people concerned about crime rates statewide.”

At a press conference on Aug. 22, Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego), joined other GOP lawmakers in denouncing the bill, asserting that freedom is a right reserved for law-abiding citizens.

“When violent murderers brutally take a life, they lose their right to freedom,” said Jones.

“Now, radical Democrat politicians want to bring these violent offenders back into our communities. Releasing heinous murderers after promising justice to the victims’ families is not just disrespectful, it’s dangerous,” he said.

Pushing back on the criticisms from across the aisle, Cortese put out on statement stating that Republicans are spreading misinformation about the bill. Cortese reiterated that the bill would not release people from prison, rather it would send people to judicial court, State Parole Board, and the Governor. .

“At each level, public safety is paramount, by utilizing the four-tiered process we are ensuring that only those who have rehabilitated pursuant to a Judicial Court, the Parole Board, and our Governor have the potential to be released. All three must agree. Only those having already served a minimum of 25 years may request a hearing,” said Cortese.

“I would encourage everyone to read the bill and read our proposed amendments,” Cortese added.

By Regina Wilson | California Black Media

Last week, California arrived at a turning point in the decades-long quest to find a solution to the news crisis in our state.

Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) brokered a deal that promises to change the future of news in our state. This isn’t just another plan — it’s a unique collaboration that brings together the State of California, news publishers and tech companies, to give our newsrooms the financial support they desperately need.

It also includes the launching of a new National AI Accelerator to explore how artificial intelligence can help journalism thrive in today’s digital world.

This partnership couldn’t come at a more critical time. Local journalism is on life support across our state. Across the country, news outlets are shrinking or shutting down at an alarming rate, leaving communities without vital information. A recent study from Northwestern University found that two and a half newspapers in the U.S. close every week. Since 2005, we’ve lost two-thirds of our newspaper journalists. In California alone, over 100 newspapers have disappeared in the last decade.

Assemblymember Wicks, along with the state and other key players, have come up with a pragmatic way to address this crisis. They’ve created an agreement to revive local journalism in California by using tech industry and public resources — without raising taxes on Californians.

Over the next five years, more than $250 million in public and private funding will go to California’s newsrooms, especially small, local, and community-focused outlets. The plan is to invest $100 million in the first year to get things started. This money will help hire hundreds of new journalists, strengthen existing newsrooms, and rebuild a strong press corps across our state. This isn’t just about saving what’s left. It’s about creating a future where journalism can be strengthened enough to resume its critical roles as interpreter of current events; watchdog of developments in business and public policy; and reliable source of news and information.

At the center of this initiative is the News Transformation Fund that will be managed by the UC Berkeley School of Journalism. This fund will provide financial support to California-based journalism, with help from both the tech sector and the state. The focus is on helping news organizations fill the gaps in local news deserts, serve underrepresented communities, and prioritize California coverage. Small, independent publishers — the ones closest to their communities and most in need.

As the Executive Director of California Black Media, I can’t stress enough how important this initiative is for ethnic and community media outlets. We’ve always been the trusted voices for historically underrepresented communities, providing news and information that larger outlets often overlook or under-explore. But many of our outlets are struggling to survive, often relying on just a few dedicated people to keep going.

This new partnership recognizes the crucial role of ethnic media in California’s diverse landscape. It offers immediate and much-needed help, allowing our newsrooms to adapt to a changing media world, embrace new technologies, and continue our important work. For many of us, this funding could mean the difference between staying open and closing down.

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s support for this initiative, along with his backing of AB 1511, authored by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles), demonstrates the administration’s strong commitment to local and underrepresented media. AB 1511 seeks to increase the state’s investment in marketing, advertising, and outreach dollars directed specifically to our local community news providers.

It’s important to note that this partnership is just the beginning. As Assemblymember Wicks said, this effort is about laying the foundation for a free and vibrant press in California. The National AI Accelerator will provide even more resources to explore how AI can help solve some of the toughest challenges facing journalism and society.

This isn’t just about money. It’s about reaffirming the essential role that journalism plays in our democracy. It’s about making sure all Californians have access to reliable and trustworthy news, no matter where they live or what language they speak. It’s about empowering local news outlets to keep telling the stories that matter most to their communities.

As we move forward, I encourage all stakeholders — publishers, journalists, community leaders, and policymakers — to come together and make the most of this opportunity. The future of California’s media landscape is at a crossroads, and with the right support, we can ensure it is incrementally funded to become more diverse, dynamic, and democratic.

About the Author

Regina Wilson is the Executive Director of California Black Media.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Join the community for Unity in CommUNITY Day. The annual community family reunion, which will be held on Saturday, September 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This year’s event promises to be a day filled with fun, food, and festivities!

Event highlights include:

• Chill N Grillin BBQ ComPITition: Delicious barbecue sampling included with admission
• Car Show: Check out a variety of cool rides.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances by the route 66 dance studio
• Folklorico Dancers and live music by The Summit High School Band, and Kids zone.
• Vendors: Arts and crafts, jewelry, food vendors and more.
• Resource Booths: Information on all cancer-related illnesses, with a special focus on Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
• Mexican Independence Day Celebration: Embrace the culture and enjoy the festivities!

Why go out of town for Labor Day? Stay local, relax, and let us handle the cooking and cleaning. This is a family event you won’t want to miss!

SAN BERNARDINO, CA-– LUE Productions is thrilled to announce, “3 Shades of Lue,” a dynamic and immersive showcase of talent featuring the incomparable Lue Dowdy. Set to take place on Saturday, September 7th, this event promises an evening of electrifying performances that will leave audiences captivated.

“3 Shades of Lue” will transport attendees through three unique dimensions of music, dance, and entertainment. From enchanting jazz melodies to infectious disco rhythms and timeless old-school R&B charm, Lue Dowdy will showcase her soulful vocal prowess like never before.

The talent lineup for the evening includes an array of exceptional performers:

• Comedian Tamiko Kirkland
• Poet Dion Jahmal
• Dancers Zada and Dancekeyshia
• Old-School Rap tribute by Comedian Kevin Davis

Guiding the audience through the festivities will be hosts Comedian Mac Rome and Tawnya Henley of Talk of the Town, ensuring an evening filled with laughter and joy.

Accompanying Lue Dowdy onstage will be the mesmerizing LueBella dancers Deeveatva Bourne and LaKyshia Reddick, adding an extra layer of visual spectacle to the performance.

In addition to the main acts, guests can look forward to entertainment by a live DJ spinning tracks with a comedic twist, as well as soul-stirring poetry to feed the spirit.

Presale tickets are available now, with options for show-only admission or meal-inclusive packages. Early bird pricing is in effect until July 1st, offering discounted rates for those who secure their tickets in advance.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, September 7^th
• Time: Doors open at 6:00 pm, show starts at 6:30 pm
• Location: 624 W. 4th St, Unit G San Bernardino, CA

Tickets can be purchased by cashapp ($Lueproductions) or Zelle (909.567.1000). For more information, contact 909.567.1000 or 909.556.7637, or email Lue.info@yahoo.com. Visit www.lueproductions.org for updates and details.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening of music, dance, and entertainment unlike any other. Join LUE Productions for “3 Shades of Lue” and experience the magic firsthand!

YUCAIPA, CA— Michelle Riggs, director of institutional advancement at Crafton Hills College (CHC), was appointed in June to the Network of California Community College Foundations (NCCCF) board of directors for a three-year term.

The NCCCF’s mission is to advance and increase philanthropy to California’s community colleges. Community colleges receive less state funding per student than all other types of California public schools and the NCCCF’s efforts hope to bridge the gap.

“I am honored to join the NCCCF board of directors and contribute to the vital work of advancing philanthropy for California’s community colleges,” said Riggs. “I see firsthand the transformative impact that financial support can have on our students’ lives. I look forward to collaborating with my peers across the state to help bridge the funding gap and ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.”

In her current role at CHC, Riggs oversees the college’s fundraising efforts, alumni relations and community engagement initiatives. With a deep commitment to student success, She has been instrumental in securing financial support to enhance educational opportunities at the college.

NCCCF represents 56 foundations supporting community colleges or districts throughout California. There are 116 California community colleges serving 1.8 million students collectively. To strengthen philanthropy in California’s community colleges, the NCCCF provides members with professional development, peer support, access to resources, and collaborative opportunities.

For more information about NCCCF, visit https://ncccfweb.org/Home.aspx.

Asthma is a significant public health issue, particularly among Medi-Cal members.

Black Californians are five times more likely to visit the emergency department and four times more likely to be hospitalized for asthma than White Californians, and more than 2 million Latinos in the state live with asthma.

Medi-Cal offers new services to help members manage and reduce asthma triggers where they often experience them most, in their own home.

Asthma Remediation as Part of Community Supports

Asthma Remediation is one of the 14 optional Community Supports Medi-Cal managed care plans can offer. Community Supports are new and improved services to help Medi-Cal members get well-rounded, whole person care that goes beyond the doctor’s office or hospital.

This program provides home modifications and interventions to manage asthma symptoms, reduce emergency room visits, and improve the quality of life for eligible members.

Transform Your Home to Manage Asthma

Medi-Cal’s Asthma Remediation service covers essential modifications to ensure your home is a safe haven, including:

• Allergen-impermeable mattress and pillow covers to block dust mites.
• High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtered vacuums to effectively remove allergens.
• Integrated Pest Management services to eliminate pests that can trigger asthma.
• De-humidifiers to control moisture levels and prevent mold growth.
• Mechanical air filters to keep indoor air clean.
• Asthma-friendly cleaning products and supplies that contain minimal chemical irritants.
• Minor mold removal and remediation services to ensure mold-free living spaces.
• Other moisture-controlling interventions to maintain a dry and healthy environment.
• Ventilation improvements to enhance air circulation.
• Other medically appropriate and cost-effective interventions identified by your health care provider.

How to Access Asthma Remediation Services

To qualify for these services, members must meet certain criteria:

• Eligibility Criteria: The member must have poorly controlled asthma, indicated by recent emergency department visits, hospitalizations, frequent urgent care visits, or a score of 19 or lower on the Asthma Control Test.
• Home Evaluation: An assessment of the member’s home must be conducted through the Asthma Preventive Services benefit to determine needs and the suitability of any requested remediation(s).
• Health Provider’s Order: A licensed health care provider must request the necessary remediations based on member needs.

Members can reach out to their managed care health plan or speak with their doctor to find out more information about available Asthma Remediation services.

Comprehensive Support and Education

Asthma Remediation goes beyond home modifications. The program also empowers members with knowledge, providing information about how to identify and mitigate environmental triggers commonly found in and around homes, including allergens and irritants. Members will learn how to:

• Use dust-proof mattresses and pillow covers.
• Properly use HEPA vacuums and asthma-friendly cleaning products.
• Implement moisture control measures and improve ventilation.
• Conduct minor home repairs, such as sealing cracks to prevent pest entry.

Financial and Coverage Details

Medi-Cal covers the costs of asthma remediations up to a lifetime maximum of $7,500 per member. This amount can be increased if significant changes in condition require additional modifications to ensure the member’s health, well-being, and safety, or to help the member achieve greater independence at home and avoid institutionalization or hospitalization. All interventions must adhere to state and local building codes and must be performed by licensed contractors to ensure quality and safety.

Enhancing the Member’s Quality of Life

Medi-Cal’s Asthma Remediation services are designed to supplement and enhance the care members already receive, providing comprehensive support to address the root causes of asthma triggers in the home.

With robust support, education, and financial coverage, Medi-Cal helps ensure that members receive the necessary modifications to live healthier lives.

Get Started Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with poorly controlled asthma, don’t wait to act. Contact your health care provider to discuss your eligibility for Medi-Cal Asthma Remediation services and start your journey toward a safer, healthier home.

For more information, call the state’s Medi-Cal Managed Care Office of the Ombudsman at (888) 452-8609 or email MMCDOmbudsmanOffice@dhcs.ca.gov.

In Riverside County and San Bernardino County, Medi-Cal recipients can contact:

• Inland Empire Health Plan: 800-440-4347
• Kaiser Permanente: 855-839-7613
• Molina HealthCare of California Partner Plan, Inc.: 888-665-4621

Take the first step today to transform your home into a healthier, safer environment.