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SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) Board of Education on Dec. 17 elected its new President, Mayra Ceballos, and Mary Ellen Abilez-Grande as their Vice President. Ceballos, the newly elected President, has served on the Board of Education for four years, having been reelected to a second term in the November 2024 election. Her focus for the upcoming term includes empowering parents to become informed advocates for their children’s education while becoming allies of their children’s educators, increasing the number of students who are college ready and championing career pathways and the visual arts.

Abilez-Grande, elected as Vice President, brings years of experience as a special education teacher in SBCUSD. Her leadership will help guide the Board’s efforts in expanding the Transition program for students with exceptional needs and encouraging and supporting District teachers in obtaining National Board Certification, which would recognize accomplished teachers and generate ongoing instructional improvement.

Also on December 17, the District welcomed new trustee Michael Santos, who was elected by voters in November to a four-year term. Santos, Ceballos, Dr. Scott Wyatt, and Felicia Alexander were also sworn in to the governing board.

The elected Board of Education sets policies, approves budgets and provides oversight to ensure the District delivers high-quality education and meets the needs of its more than 46,000 students. SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano praised the Board’s new leadership, saying, “We are excited to work alongside Mayra and Mary Ellen and the entire governing board as we continue to create opportunities for our students, build stronger schools and ensure a bright future for the San Bernardino community.”

The new President and Vice President officially assumed their roles on December 17. They are committed to collaborating with fellow Board members, District leaders and the community to ensure all SBCUSD students receive the resources and support they need to succeed. The Board of Education meets at 5:30 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of every month, unless changed per Board action, in the Dr. Margaret Hill Community Room, 777 North F Street in San Bernardino.

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Amid the damage and despair caused by firestorms in the Los Angeles area, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) held its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast in Sacramento on his birthday, Jan. 15.

All 12 members of the CLBC attended the event, including six Black lawmakers from the Los Angeles region who expressed their deep concerns about constituents displaced or impacted by the fires.

Vice-chair of the CLBC Assemblymember Issac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights) shared with the diverse crowd attending the breakfast that he and Chair, Sen. Akilah Weber-Pierson (D-La Mesa), received numerous messages inquiring whether the event would be called off because of the fires.

Bryan said it was important to move forward with the celebration considering the disaster’s aftermath and the transfer of presidential transition happening in Washington on Jan. 20.

“Hell no, we are not canceling the breakfast,” Bryan said he told callers. “We need to think about the legacy and impact of Martin Luther King, Jr., more than ever. In fact, he would be ashamed if we canceled this breakfast a week before (Donald) Trump takes office.”

The event was held at the Elk’s Tower three blocks north of the State Capitol under the theme, “Black Power, Progress, and Purpose.” Martin Luther King would have turned 96 on the day of the event.

It marked the first time that all CLBC members were in the same room since the 2025-2026 legislative session began in December.

The CLBC holds the event each year to honor the legacy of Dr. King and the celebrate the Caucus’ commitment to service in Black communities across the state.

Speakers included California Secretary of State Shirley Weber and Attorney General Rob Bonta.

Black California constitutional officers — State Controller Malia Cohen and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond — also attended the event.

“This annual gathering is not only a time for reflections but also a time for renewal (and) a moment to recommit to the values that Dr. King fought and gave his life for,” Weber-Pierson said during her remarks.

The keynote speaker was Lurie Daniel-Favors, who serves as Executive Director at the Center for Law and Social Justice (CLSJ) at Medgar Evers College in New York. The CLSJ is a community-based legal organization that specializes in addressing racial injustice.

Daniel-Favors reflected on a time in recent history that she the Black community could “explicitly, proactively, and unabashedly” advocate for racial equality. She said that freedom is now threatened.

Conservative ideas like those contained in Project 2025 and anti-DEI activism are now the status quo, Daniel-Favors lamented.

She believes that the push back against equity policies is a way to say, “No, we will not absolutely consider what qualifications you have. This position by default is not for you.”

“The only reason we needed diversity, equity, and inclusion, and Affirmative Action programs as policy is because we needed a way to disrupt the flow of power which, up until that time, reserved all opportunity access resources to White Americans, regardless of metrics, qualifications and merit,” she said.

“Now we are in a time and place where the whole world has shifted and the Supreme Court has stepped in and we are returning to what I like to call the ‘Jim Crow’ era of jurisprudence when it comes to Civil Rights, social justice, and advancing equity for the nation,” Daniel-Favors added.

The breakfast celebration featured a drum dance performance by David Bowman and Company, the singing of the Black National Anthem “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” by Olevia Wilson, and additional musical selections by Huie Lovelady and a community choir.

“Many don’t realize the fact that the (CLBC) caucus was the first ethnic caucus in the nation. Eventually, other caucuses were formed,” Secretary of State Weber reminded the guests. “We are proud of the fact that this caucus has been in existence for over 55 years and has served and served well during the hard times in between.”

SACRAMENTO—Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) today announced he will be serving for the first time as a member of the Assembly Public Safety Committee. He will continue to serve as chairperson of Budget Subcommittee #6 that also deals with state funding of public safety concerns. Budget subcommittee jurisdictions include California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Judicial Branch, the Department of Justice, the Office of Emergency Services, the Board of State and Community Corrections, the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, the California Victims Compensation Board, the California Military Department, and the Office of the State Public Defender.

“I thank Speaker Rivas for the opportunity to serve on these two committees that offer the opportunity to work in key posts to further the safety of all Californians,” Ramos said.

The legislator noted that since his election he has worked on a number of public safety issues such as retail theft and endorsed Proposition 36, which modified the decade-old Proposition 47 by increasing criminal penalties for some drug and theft crimes. “Prop 36” was overwhelmingly approved by more than 68 percent. Ramos has also worked to reduce the sale of illegal substances to minors on social media, victims’ rights notifications, safe vessel operation, tiny home fire safety, increasing the availability of fentanyl test strips and funding of fentanyl overdose response teams, reducing the likelihood that persons facing life sentences are freed on bail without good cause, and encouraging more students to seek help for substance abuse issues.

Ramos, the first and only California Native American to serve in the Legislature, has also worked tirelessly on effort to increase safety on tribal reservations plagued by a disproportionate number of missing persons and violence. Through legislation and the budget he initiated additional resources to the State Attorney General and Department of Justice for improved data collection, law enforcement training, and tribal outreach. He also authored legislation that created a new tool for law enforcement such as the Feather Alert, a public notification system similar to the Amber Alert and used when Native Americans are missing. This year he is attempting to allow tribal law enforcement to obtain state peace officer status under certain conditions. Peace officer status for tribal officers would assist both reservations and neighboring non-tribal jurisdictions.

“Over the years as a tribal council chair and member, as a county supervisor member and leader, and now as an assemblymember, I have been fortunate to enjoy close working relationships and collaboration with my district sheriff, police chiefs, district attorneys and judges as well as my constituents. As we confronted the issue of opioid abuse, parents and students joined me at town halls to share their concerns and suggestions. Their suggestions were helpful in successfully introducing legislation,” Ramos stated.

Ramos, elected to the Assembly in November 2018, said, “My focus is on prevention and ensuring that law enforcement and others have the tools they need to protect and serve, and that in the aftermath of tragedy, our people have the tools to access the care and services they need to overcome heartbreaking physical and emotional devastation.”

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Assemblymember James C. Ramos proudly represents the 45^th Assembly district that includes the Cities of Fontana, Highland, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto and San Bernardino. He is the first and only California Native American serving in the state’s legislature. Ramos chairs the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #6 on Public Safety. 

SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF – The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group has appointed Rev. George Lamb – President and CEO of the Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.) – as the inaugural chair of the group, which is dedicated to eliminating societal racial disparities.

“I am privileged and honored to serve as the inaugural chair of the SBC Equity Element Group,” said Rev. Lamb. “This is an incredible opportunity for us to take responsibility for leading ourselves, our families, and our communities in creating a transformative, just, and equitable society for Black residents in San Bernardino County. We have a lot of work to do to create a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly for Black individuals and people of color.”

“Rev. Lamb serves the community with unwavering dedication and invests significant time in improving the quality of life for individuals residing in San Bernardino County,” stated County Assistant Executive Officer Diana Alexander.

As the CEO of Millennium Man Consultants, Rev. Lamb negotiates contractual agreements with community-based organizations, non-profit entities, and various government agencies at the county and state levels. He focuses on organizational management, operational effectiveness, and marketing strategies.

Rev. Lamb stated, “As a member of the Community Vital Signs Steering Committee, I chair the Community Engagement sub-committee, co-chair the Public Safety sub-committee, and also serve on the Strategic Plan Implementation, Education, Economic Development, and Nominations Select sub-committees.” He also serves on the First 5 San Bernardino Advisory Board.

He has served on the San Bernardino County Homeless Veterans Advisory Board and Taskforce and as a member of the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools’ Wellness Strategy Action Team.

Rev. Lamb is the retired president of the American Evangelical Christian Churches’ Board of Directors and the founder and executive director of Millennium Man Ministries, a non-profit charitable trust organization. He also serves as the president of the Board of Directors.

His commitment to servant leadership and passion for the Kingdom of God and its people enable him to effectively coordinate community resources, service providers, and county agencies. This coordination focuses on developing readiness skills for individuals in faith-based organizations (FBOs) and the staff, community-based organizations (CBOs), and other agencies serving them.

Rev. Lamb received degrees from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary and Patten University. He leads the Men’s Ministry and co-directs the Educational Ministry with his wife, Jamie. They have three adult children and six grandchildren. George is an agent of cultural change and community transformation; he continually works to turn perceived “liabilities” into opportunities for growth and improvement.

SBC Equity Element Group Members include George Lamb, chair of the Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.) Committee; Bill Thomas, NAACP High Desert Branch; Dina Walker, BLU Educational Foundation; Pastor Samuel Casey, Churches Organized for Prophetic Engagement (COPE); Phyllis Morris-Green, Reimagining Our Communities; Terrance Stone, Young Visionaries; and Tremaine Mitchell, Youth Action Project.

SBC Equity Element Group Members: Terrance Stone, Brenee Antoinette Hendrix, a consultant; Bill Thomas, Rev. Sam Casey, Rev. George Lamb, Chair, and Phyllis Morris-Green.

The following individuals represent San Bernardino County as Collaborative Partners: Diana Alexander, Assistant Executive Officer; Gilbert Ramos, Deputy Executive Officer, San Bernardino County Administrative Office; Erica Banks, Executive Administrative Analyst; and Sandra Abarca, Executive Administrative Assistant.

On Tuesday, June 23, 2020, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution declaring “Racism a Public Health Crisis.” The Board authorized the County Administrative Office to form an element group within the Countywide Vision focused on equity.

“The Equity Element Group was formed of influential and prolific members of the Black community who are working together to continue improving our communities,” Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman said when the Equity Element Group was formed. Hagman served as chairman of the Board of Supervisors at the time. “We are looking forward to the recommendations they will make to help us close gaps in services and opportunities for Black residents and people of color who live and work in our county.”

According to Alexander, the San Bernardino County Equity Element Group is tasked with identifying racial disparities impacting our county’s residents and recommending campaigns and programs to address these issues. The group will also identify initiatives already underway within the county government or the community that can be highlighted and supported.

For more information about the SBC Equity Element Group, email Info@SNCEEG.org.

About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group

The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions.

For more information about the SBC Equity Element Group, email Info@SNCEEG.org.

RIVERSIDE, CA— The Adrian Dell & Carmen Roberts Foundation proudly announces the return of the 45th Annual Black History Parade & Expo, one of California’s longest-running Black History Month celebrations. The event will take place on Saturday, February 8th, 2025, at 10:00 AM, in Historic Downtown Riverside.

This year’s theme, “Serving Our Community,” highlights the rich cultural heritage and accomplishments of the Black community, as well as its enduring spirit of unity and progress.

The event promises a day filled with live entertainment, drill teams and marching bands, appearances by city and county elected officials, and displays from car and motorcycle clubs. Attendees can also enjoy award-winning food vendors, shop at booths featuring unique merchandise, and experience a vibrant celebration of Black culture and history.

“The Black History Parade & Expo is a cornerstone of our community,” said a representative from the Adrian Dell & Carmen Roberts Foundation. “This celebration not only honors our history but also brings us together to inspire future generations.”

Event Details:

What: 45th Annual Black History Parade & Expo

When: Saturday, February 8th, 2025, at 10:00 AM

Where: Historic Downtown Riverside

Highlights: Live entertainment, unique vendors, community organizations, and more!

The parade will feature colorful floats, community organizations, and performers who reflect the diversity and creativity of the Riverside community. After the parade, the expo will continue with entertainment, food, and activities for all ages.

For more information about the 45th Annual Black History Parade & Expo, visit the event page on Facebook at https://facebook.com/events/s/45th-riverside-black-history-p/1844192085984860/ or contact the Adrian Dell & Carmen Roberts Foundation directly at www.adcrfoundation.org.

5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Extravaganza Celebrates Unity and Legacy in San Bernardino

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, YouthBuild Inland Empire, and LUE Productions Community Umbrella Services proudly hosted the 5th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade and Extravaganza on Monday, January 20th, 2025. Themed “Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward,” this year’s event united the community to honor Dr. King’s enduring legacy of equality, justice, and hope.

Despite strong winds sweeping through the city, the spirit of celebration and unity prevailed, making the event a resounding success. The parade was led by Grand Marshal Mr. Rich Wallace, Founder and CEO of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce and Chancellor for YouthBuild Inland Empire. Starting at noon, the parade route moved through downtown San Bernardino, passing the iconic Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. statue on D Street near City Hall. The San Bernardino Motorcycle Unit led the procession, with comedian Mac Rome and Tawnya Rhodes-Hensley of Talk of the Town energizing the crowd as parade announcers.

The extravaganza began with an inspiring performance by students from several local schools, directed by music instructor Mrs. Mary Tartalone. Hosted by comedian Anthony Stone, the program featured a powerful keynote address from 5th District Supervisor Joe Baca. Awards of Service were presented to:

• The San Bernardino City Unified School District
• Felicia Alexander, Board Member of SBCUSD
• Shiekh Shoes Impact Center
• San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

The Kids Zone, sponsored by First 5 San Bernardino, was a highlight for young attendees, offering face painting, balloon twisting, and free family resources for children under five. Shiekh Shoes Impact Center also generously donated $50 gift cards for a community giveaway.

The crowd was treated to an electrifying performance by LUE Productions’ Old School Review group, The Bromatics, whose soulful sounds left the audience cheering. Additional performances included jazz singer Amasa Albright and the high-energy DDC Dare to Dance Company, each delivering a showcase of exceptional talent.

Event Coordinator Lue Dowdy reflected on the success of this year’s event, “We did it! All the planning and preparation came together beautifully. The theme, ‘Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward,’ reflects the importance of honoring Dr. King’s legacy while focusing on the future. Seeing the involvement of our youth and the overwhelming support from the San Bernardino City Unified School District and their staff made it all worthwhile.

I am so grateful to the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, YouthBuild Inland Empire, and our LUE Productions team for their dedication. Thank you to all our amazing volunteers, vendors, parade participants, and community members for uniting to make this 5th Annual SB MLK Day Parade & Extravaganza a success. I believe Dr. King is proud, and so am I. Until next year!”

This annual celebration, themed “Echoes of Freedom as We Continue Marching Forward,” not only honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. but also highlighted the power of community and unity in creating a brighter future for all.

About the Hosts

The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, YouthBuild Inland Empire, and LUE Productions Community Umbrella Services are dedicated to fostering community development, youth engagement, and cultural celebrations that empower and uplift the Inland Empire region.

The federal grant will fund over 100 EV charging stations at fifteen locations throughout the City

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The City of San Bernardino has announced it has received a $14,055,578 Charging and Feuling Infrastructure Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration to build the City’s first public charging network. The project, in partnership with Arcadia-based EVCS, will construct and operate 101 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at parks, libraries, senior centers, and other locations across the City.

San Bernardino is one of six organizations in the state and the only one in Southern California to receive this competitive grant.

“This grant propels San Bernardino toward a greener, more resilient future,” said Mayor Helen Tran. “By adding over 100 community EV charging stations, we are not only improving access to sustainable transportation but reaffirming our dedication to environmental progress and community growth.”

The lack of accessible chargers has prevented many individuals from considering electric vehicles ownership, especially renters and residents of apartments. The new charging network is expected to increase EV adoption and provide convenient, affordable, and reliable charging for San Bernardino residents.

The project will install 77 Level 2 and 24 DC fast chargers at 15 municipally owned locations, including six parks/community centers, a soccer complex, the main library, City Hall, the Police Department, the City Yard, and several downtown parking locations. All sites will include Level 2 and DC fast chargers, Level 1 outlets for micro-mobility to charge e-bikes and scooters, and a 200kWh Battery Energy Storage System for reliability and resiliency.

As part of the project, the City of San Bernardino plans to partner with Arcadia based EVCS to operate and maintain the network. EVCS manages over 300 EV charging facilities in the western United States and will be providing $3.5 million to cover a portion of the equipment, construction, and operating costs. The City will also partner with a local non-profit or educational institution to develop workforce initiatives, including internships and apprenticeships in EV technology for local high school and college students.

The Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Program awarded $635.69 million to 49 grantees across the nation to strategically deploy publicly accessible electric vehicle charging and alternative fueling infrastructure in the places people live and work – in addition to along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors.

“By equipping our communities with publicly accessible clean energy solutions, we are investing in a more sustainable and affordable future for Inland Empire residents,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “This grant will help San Bernardino implement EV chargers throughout the City, taking crucial steps to combat climate change, reduce air pollution and improve public health.”

The total project cost is $17,587,038 for design and engineering, permitting, construction, utility upgrades, commissioning and operations and maintenance.

An agreement will be presented to the City Council for their approval in the coming months.

SOUTH CHINA SEA– Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) 3rd Class Gabriel Silva, of Hesperia, Calif., takes the midpoint sample of JP-5 fuel aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104) during a replenishment-at-sea with the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Richard E. Byrd (T-AKE 4), Jan. 4, 2025. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

Presented by DCH Subaru of Riverside – A Community Event to Inspire Change

RIVERSIDE, CA — Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB) invites you to its highly anticipated annual luncheon, Curbing Hunger: Bridging Gaps, proudly presented by DCH Subaru of Riverside. Held at FARSB’s warehouse, this in-person gathering offers a meaningful experience with a humble yet heartfelt soup-and-bread meal. Attendees will discover how FARSB is driving impactful initiatives to combat food insecurity across the Inland Empire while connecting with like-minded community advocates.

“Once a year, we come together with a simple goal: to share and inspire,” said Carolyn Fajardo, CEO at FARSB. “Our hope with Curbing Hunger is for every guest to leave motivated and eager to explore how they can take part in supporting meaningful hunger relief initiatives in their community,“ said Fajardo.

This event offers a rare opportunity to break bread together—volunteers, donors, and supporters alike—while gaining firsthand updates on the essential work the food bank is doing to transform lives. Guests will receive valuable insights into FARSB’s ongoing efforts and local programs and have the chance to engage with others who share a passion for creating a hunger-free community.

The event takes place on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are free and can be accessed until Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at https://FeedingIE.org/CurbingHungerBG.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 14, 2025) – Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic Lilo Leialoha, of San Bernardino, communicates via radio during flight operations aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Jan. 14, 2025. Vinson, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group ONE, is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.