Happily Divorced And After

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

You know, there is a story told of a vessel that was wrecked and was going down at sea. There were not enough lifeboats to take all on board. When the vessel went down, some of the lifeboats were near the vessel. A man swam from the wreck to one of the boats, but they had no room to take him on. When they refused, he seized hold of the boat with his right hand, but they took a sword and cut off his fingers. When he had lost the fingers of his right hand, the man was so earnest to save his life that he seized the boat with his left hand. They cut off the fingers of that hand too. Then the man swam up and seized the boat with his teeth. Now they had compassion on him and relented. They could not cut off his head, so they took him in, and the man’s life was saved. Why? Because he was in earnest.

Why not seek your soul’s salvation as that man sought to save his life? Don’t wait until it’s too late! Time is running out for our world. Consider today with some urgency your eternal life. For as Martin Luther King, Jr. said in his I have a dream speech in August 1963 on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C, “We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the FIERCE URGENCY OF NOW.” What a phrase that is. “The FIERCE URGENCY OF NOW.” Some things simply can’t be put off forever. Sometimes we must RESPOND NOW, we must ANSWER NOW, we must ACT NOW, we must NOT WAIT or DELAY or put things off.

Run to the only refuge there is, the refuge of Jesus Christ. If you go there, you are going to be safe from the coming judgment and the coming wrath. But, if you go outside of it, you’re going to be killed. You’re going to perish. [2 Thessalonians 3:3].

For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through Jesus. [1 Thessalonians 5:9]. Run – Run for your life! There is no time to waste! For the Bible speaks of a time at the end of the present age in the books of Daniel, Revelation, and Matthew, among others — when there will be seven years of tribulation culminating in the battle of Armageddon in Israel and the return of Jesus Christ to the earth, in which right now, the stage is being set by Satan and his puppets. [Revelation 13].

Remember the Bible spoke of the Antichrist – a man who will appear on the world scene in the Last Days just before the return of Jesus Christ to the earth. Described in both the Old and New Testaments, he will be the very incarnation of evil cleverly disguised as a dynamic, charismatic, visionary leader. He will astound the world with his solutions to human problems. His empire will span every continent, and his rule will be the most demonic individual the world has ever experienced. He will rise to world domination by declaring himself a Man of Peace [Daniel 8:23-25; Daniel 9:26-27; Daniel 11:36-39; Revelation Chapter 6; Ezekiel 38; 2Thessalonians 2:4; Revelation 13:2,4,5; Matthew 24:15].

But will later plunge the world into global war. Eventually his true character will be revealed. He will be opposed to Jesus Christ and will offer himself to the world as the savior of humanity. Together with his False Prophet, he will control the global economy and force his followers to receive a mark on their hands or their foreheads which most of the world will willingly follow him. [Revelation 13:16-17]. But after 3.5 years of his reign, all Hell will break loose. Talking about a fierce urgency, I tell you, NOW is the time run for safety. Repent before it is too late and get under the Umbrella of the Almighty God. He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge. [Psalms 91:4]. Don’t wait any longer but put your life in God’s hands TODAY!

[Echoing]: US President Donald Trump on Monday cast himself as a peacemaker in his second inaugural address, pointing to the hostage release-ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that went into effect on Sunday. “My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier. That’s what I want to be — a peacemaker and a unifier,” he said after being sworn in inside the US Capitol.
In parroting, let me say this. “The Bible predicts that the Antichrist will come to power as a peacemaker. He will be firmly committed to globalism, the belief that the massive problems in the world can only be solved by bringing all nations under one banner. Through economic, political, and religious reform.

While we don’t know who the Antichrist is or will be, Scripture provides a few explanations of his characteristics and actions. We should always ask God for revelation and wisdom to be able to discern correctly. May we be those that can hear and then respond accordingly. [Revelation 13:9].

For terrible are the days which lie ahead. The rumblings of the coming judgment can be heard in the distance. The clouds are gathering. There is only one way out, and that is through Christ, who is the door to absolute safety. Those who receive Him and enter through the door by faith are safe. They are described as those whose names ‘are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.’ Is your name written there? Are you ready for His coming? If not, will you turn to him [Christ] and be saved now?” [M.R. DeHaan].

Will you?

This is critical for this day as we see the mystery of lawlessness at work and we see the chess pieces fall into place.

Even then, they would still not believe. [2 Timothy 4:3-4].

So, Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the DOOR. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved. [John 10:9].

Yet they did not listen or incline their ear, but stiffened their neck, that they might not hear and receive instruction.” [Jeremiah 17:23].

These wicked people refuse to listen to me. They stubbornly follow their own desires and worship other gods. Therefore, they will become like this loincloth—good for nothing! [Jeremiah13:10].

 

 

ONTARIO, CA— The 3rd Annual Inland Empire Human Resource-BIZ Conference, hosted by the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Insight HR Consulting, will take place on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM at the Ontario Airport Hotel & Conference Center. This highly anticipated event brings together HR professionals, local business leaders, and industry experts to explore emerging trends and critical workforce challenges.

As businesses navigate evolving labor laws, workplace culture shifts, and talent retention challenges, this conference provides a unique platform for HR professionals to gain strategic insights, best practices, and solutions that drive organizational success. Attendees will also gain valuable knowledge about the recent changes to California’s labor laws, including updated wage regulations and expanded worker protections. Sessions will focus on practical strategies to help businesses remain compliant, safeguard their workforce, and foster sustainable growth in today’s complex regulatory landscape.

This year’s conference will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Vilma Brager, COO at Insight HR Consulting, who will share her expertise in HR transformations and talent management. Anne K. Smith, Attorney and Partner at AALRR law firm, will provide key insights into employment law and compliance. Angel Guerra-Chagolla, Managing Partner at 3B National Consulting Group, and Stephen Stewart, Owner/Operator at United Agencies Inc. Insurance, will offer their expertise in risk management and strategic planning.

“The success of any business starts with its people. Our goal is to empower HR professionals with actionable strategies to support their workforce and drive organizational growth,” said Edward Ornelas, Jr., President & CEO of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce.

The conference is expected to draw over 250 attendees, offering valuable networking opportunities and the chance to gain industry-leading knowledge. Registration is still open, and tickets can be purchased on the Chamber’s website at www.iechamber.org/events.

This year’s event proudly welcomes back Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo (AALRR) as the Title Sponsor.  Additional event sponsors include Thrive Inland SoCal, James P. Bennett & Company, Paycor, United Agencies Inc. Insurance, Paylocity, California State University San Bernardino, and Changing Lives Staffing. These organizations are dedicated to empowering businesses across the Inland Empire by providing the tools and insights HR professionals and business leaders need to achieve long-term success and growth.

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About the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce: The Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce (IERCC) is dedicated to driving economic growth, fostering collaboration, and empowering businesses across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Representing a diverse network of businesses—from startups to established enterprises—the Chamber serves as a catalyst for growth, innovation, and opportunity in the Inland Empire.

About Insight HR Consulting: Insight HR Consulting is dedicated to helping organizations of all sizes and industries successfully navigate people matters, create inclusive environments, mitigate risk, and remain legally compliant. Their approach focuses on developing practical HR policies, best practices, and customized solutions that align workforce strategies with business objectives.

By Jasmyne Cannick

What do Snoop Dogg and Caitlyn Jenner have in common? No, this isn’t the setup for a bad joke—it’s a tragic reality. They’ve become poster children for the misguided belief that cozying up to power structures that openly despise them will somehow buy them a permanent seat at the table—or at least a pat on the head from the same people pulling the strings. Spoiler alert: it won’t.

Take Caitlyn Jenner, for example, who’s stanned for Trump who continues to actively work to push legislation that threatens her very existence. While she’s off applauding his presidential win, the ink is barely dry on his executive orders mandating she be referred to by her birth name, Bruce.

Rather than taking a stand against these policies, she’s leaned into her wealth and privilege, banking on it to shield her from the harm those same policies inflict on the trans community. Why? Because she’s rich and insulated from the struggles and discrimination most trans people face. She can retreat to her Malibu mansion and comfortably tune out everyone else’s reality. Because as long as Trump is coming up with ways to keep her rich–that’s all that really matters. Newsflash: privilege isn’t bulletproof, and proximity to power doesn’t erase the hate aimed in her direction.

Then there’s Snoop Dogg and his ilk, rappers who once stood as cultural titans now bending over backward to cozy up to the Trump tax bracket. After years of using the community to build their stacks, they are perfectly content to throw the same people who put them in their comfy tax bracket under the bus for a front-row seat at a table that was never built for them. They’ve swapped authenticity and influence for the illusion of inclusion, all while pretending the check is worth it. It’s not–they know it, we know it. It’s the reason at the domino table we say, “All ain’t good money.”

What they don’t seem to realize—or flat-out refuse to—is that their proximity to whiteness (in the case of Snoop and company) or wealth and privilege (in Caitlyn’s case) doesn’t shield them from
the systems they claim to have transcended. Those systems will gladly facilitate (and celebrate) their selling out while continuing to dehumanize and disenfranchise the very communities they come from and should be fighting for. It’s not respect they’re earning—it’s betrayal.

It’s not just disappointing—it’s dangerous when public figures like Snoop Dogg or Caitlyn Jenner trade their influence for proximity to power, they’re not just letting down their communities–they’re actively legitimizing the systems that harm them. They’re showing the next generation that progress is negotiable, everyone can be bought, and that fighting for equity can take a back seat to personal gain.

There’s a gut-punch of disappointment we feel after building up people like Snoop, only to watch them back systems that harm their own. And the pity for someone like Caitlyn, who thinks her money outweighs her self-respect. We need to hold folks accountable—mark this date on your
calendar. So when these celebs inevitably flip-flop and come crawling back for the community’s support–be it a new album, reality television series, film–whatever–we remember, decline the call, and leave them on read.

Selling out isn’t just a choice for them—it’s become their brand.

Singing the hook to Chris Brown’s “Loyal,” “Aww, these h–s ain’t loyal.”

A member of hip-hop generation, Jasmyne Cannick is based in Los Angeles and is an award-winning journalist and political commentator who speaks and writes to challenge, critique, and hold the culture accountable.

Publisher’s Commentary by Wallace J. Allen

Every day or so, he will deliver another controversial Executive Order (EO) that cuts into the infrastructure of our laws and the Constitution. These EO’s are designed to keep us so confused, that we shift our eyes away from what appears to be his real goal! We know Mr. Trump loves his cult supported power! Some say that he intends to be President for life.

I suggest that his cult members will soon be seeking relief! The poor and hungry among them are going to get poorer and hungrier. The middle class among them will not enjoy the restraints of inflation and the loss of government agencies that facilitate access to their middle-class lifestyle. I predict that many of the Trump cult members will soon be seeking a way to spit-out the Kool-Aid! His Anti-Christ-Economy will definitely hurt them, and they are going to raise hell!

However, they, like the unfortunate members of the Jim Jones Cult, need our help! We should take care to not ridicule them. They need a clear lane to redemption! I look forward to and will accept and support their shift to reality.

We should consider supporting them in an impeachment wellness campaign, as opposed to the civilian war that the Anti-Christ is fostering! A civilian war would become his ultimate shield of chaos. No matter who the combatants, his chaos-based opportunity would crystalize!

I expect that chaos is his chosen route to an extended reign on his seat of power! There will be no need to discuss or vote on it. A declared State of Emergency and Martial Law will become the anti-law of the land.

He will create chaos to justify a State of Emergency Declaration, which he will manipulate into more chaos, generating his obvious step to dictatorial power. He will declare Martial Law, and as Commander in Chief, will have the world’s mightiest military to enforce it!
His most recent actions show that he is actively securing the bureaucracy. He has the Court. He has the Military, and a deadly Militia, and most alarming, he has the audacity!

Our Congress and Senate have the power to take charge. Impeachment needs to be a talking point!

SAN BERNARDINO, CA–– NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer John Thomas Salley, father, athlete, actor, serial entrepreneur, talk show host, philanthropist, wellness advocate, vegan, and champion, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2025 San Bernardino Black History Parade.

“We are pleased and excited to welcome John Sally as the Grand Marshall of the 46th Annual Black History Parade,” said Black Cultural Foundation President Carl M. Dameron. “Amy Malone, President of the NCNW Inland Empire Section and Founder and President of Girl in Charge Public Relations, successfully secured John Salley for the parade.”

“It is an honor to participate in the San Bernardino Black History Month Parade.  Anytime I can celebrate the lives and accomplishments of Black people, I will do so with pride.  This parade is a way for me to honor the visionaries of the past and those who are on the forefront now advocating for our rights and liberties today,” said Salley.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Salley developed a passion for basketball early on. He earned a full scholarship to Georgia Tech, where he played under legendary coach Bobby Cremins. Selected as the #11 pick in the 1986 NBA Draft, John’s 15-year career is marked by historic milestones.

He became the first player to win four championships with three different teams: the iconic Detroit Pistons “Bad Boys,” Michael Jordan’s record-breaking 1996 Chicago Bulls, and the 2000 Los Angeles Lakers under Phil Jackson.

After retiring from the NBA in 2000, Salley transitioned seamlessly into television and film. His credits include Bad Boys, Bad Boys II, Bad Boys 4 Life, Eddie, Confessions of a Shopaholic, and Disney’s Sneakerella. Salley co-hosted the Emmy-nominated The Best Damn Sports Show Period and has led multiple shows, including The John Salley Block Party, Ballers on BET and VH1’s Basketball Wives Reunion. He also helms his production company, John Salley Presents, and consulting firm, Sal Sal Consultants, where he develops unique projects for TV, film, and digital platforms.

As a serial entrepreneur, Salley has embraced his passion for building impactful businesses. He co-founded a vegan supplement company and partnered with his daughter to create a cannabis brand focused on wellness.

His latest venture, Black Folk Media, developed in partnership with the Pan African Film Festival, aims to launch the first Black-only media app. This platform will make the entertainment industry accessible to creators at every level, partnering with universities and high schools to nurture emerging talent.

Salley is a dedicated advocate for wellness, plant-based living, and social causes. He is actively involved with Operation Smile, PETA, and PCRM. A recipient of PETA’s highest honor, Salley has also addressed Congress on the Child Nutrition Act to promote healthier vegetarian options in public schools.

He frequently speaks at VegFests across the country, sharing his passion for plant-based lifestyles and healthy living. John, an early investor in Beyond Meat, also contributes articles for Wine Spectator, Cigar Aficionado, and LA Confidential.

“Salley continues to inspire and engage millions with his active presence on platforms like Instagram (@johnsalley), Twitter (@thejohnsalley), and VLAD TV’s YouTube channel,” said Dameron.

Salley es in Los Angeles with his wife and daughters,  which proves his commitment to family, wellness, and innovation.

Black History Parade Details:

• Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
• Time: 9:00 a.m.
• Route: Baseline Ave. and Mt. Vernon to California Street

“The Black History Parade, a cherished tradition since 1968, will proceed along Baseline Avenue from Mt. Vernon to California Street in Westside San Bernardino, uplifting the community with its vibrant energy and cultural importance,” said Dameron.

Parade coordinator Russel Ward said, “Five marching bands are set to perform. The Cardinal Marching Band from San Bernardino High School will lead the parade. San Gorgonio High School, Indian Springs High School, and the Arroyo Valley High School marching bands will end the parade and lead us all into Arrow Vistas High School for the festival.

“Cheer squads from Arrowview Middle School, Chavez Middle School, Curtis Middle School, Del Vallejo Middle School, Emmerton Elementary School, Fairfax Elementary School, Indian Springs High School, King Middle School, Lytle Creek Elementary School, Marshall Elementary School, Paakumá Elementary, Rio Vista Elementary School, San Gorgonio High School and Urbita Elementary School will perform, along with Steppers from Fairfax Elementary and Cajon High,” added Ward.

Black History Festival Details:

• Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
• Time: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. immediately after the parade until 3:00 p.m.
• Location: Arroyo High School, 1881 W. Base Line St., San Bernardino

According to Dameron, the festival will feature various vendors, performers, and community organizations. Attendees can enjoy delicious food, cultural arts, and live entertainment, including comedians, dancers, and singers.

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About the Black Culture Foundation

The Black Culture Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of Black culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…and bridge the gaps across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in unity.”

For more information about the Black Culture Foundation, go to SBBCFoundation.org.

On Monday, January 20th, members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Eta Nu Omega chapter honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by participating in the Blood of the Martyrs Blood Drive. The blood drive was in partnership with LifeStream and the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Bernardino Catholics of African American Descent Ministry. There were 28 volunteers (17 HNO members, 9 Community Members, Members of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., and Tuskegee Airmen. There was a total of 81 blood donors (22 in Ontario, 35 in San Bernardino, and 24 in Riverside). The sorority is thankful to all who have served in honoring the legacy of Dr. King.

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 Bo Tefu | California Black Media?? 

On Jan. 7, 2025, Rep. Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), who succeeds former Congresswoman Barbara Lee, was sworn into office by former Vice President Kamala Harris in a ceremony held in the Vice President’s office in the U.S. Capitol. The event marked a significant milestone in Simon’s career, which has been closely influenced by her decades-long professional relationship and friendship with Harris.

Simon was accompanied by her friends and family, as she reflected on the moment’s significance.

“I am so honored to have my mentor and former boss, Vice President Kamala Harris, administer this oath. She has been instrumental in shaping my public service career and paving the way for women like me to serve at the highest levels,” said Simon.

The relationship between Simon and Harris began in the late 1990s, when Simon worked at the Young Women’s Freedom Center and Harris was an Assistant District Attorney in San Francisco. Their collaboration deepened in 2005 when then-District Attorney Harris tapped Simon to lead the “Back on Track” program. This initiative, designed to provide alternatives to incarceration for first-time, nonviolent offenders, gained national recognition and inspired similar programs across the country.

Simon serves a constituency that includes the cities of Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, Albany, Emeryville, Piedmont, and parts of San Leandro. She has pledged to advocate for social justice, equity, and progressive policies as a member of Congress.

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media?? 

Recovery efforts in Los Angeles and Ventura counties faced setbacks last week as powerful winds — up to 70 mph — created extreme fire danger through Wednesday. Red flag warnings, signaling high fire risks due to low humidity and dry conditions, were in effect, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported. Firefighters and officials also made urgent preparations, with resources positioned to mitigate the risks of new wildfires.

The Eaton and Palisades fires have claimed 27 lives and burned over 60 square miles, destroying over 12,000 structures, including homes and businesses. As of Jan. 19, the Eaton Fire was 81% contained, while the Palisades Fire was at 52%. Residents under evacuation orders have dropped to 92,000, but officials warn new orders may be issued.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized proactive measures, including strategic deployment of firefighters and water tankers.

“L.A. City firefighters and firefighters from across the county, state and nation and even overseas are in a proactive and strategic posture to save lives,” said Bass, reinforcing that city officials are making urgent preparations to mobilize resources.

The L.A. Department of Water and Power has made over six billion gallons of water available for firefighting and addressed prior water supply issues. Meanwhile, drinking water advisories remain for affected areas, including northern Pasadena and Pacific Palisades.

Safety measures are in place, including a 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew in evacuation zones to prevent looting and burglaries. Officials have also warned against price gouging, with Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman pledging legal action against violators.

Authorities are also addressing the health impacts of smoke exposure, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and use N95 masks or air purifiers. The NWS has labeled the current conditions a “particularly dangerous situation,” urging vigilance and evacuation readiness as high winds persist.

Search and rescue operations for missing persons continue, with 23 people unaccounted for in L.A. County. Officials remain focused on containment efforts, protecting communities, and preventing further destruction.

By Reginald S. Webb, Jr. | California Black Media

On January 7, when the Eaton fire ignited in the foothills of Eaton Canyon in the San Gabriel Mountains. Fueled by wind gusts of 80 to 100 miles per hour and dry weather conditions, the fire forced the evacuation of most of Altadena’s 43,000 residents.

Among them were thousands of Black families and individuals who have lived in the racially diverse hillside suburb for generations. Blacks make up about 18% of Altadena’s population and their homeownership rate of more than 80% far outpaces other places in the state and country.

A few days later, many of the Altadena evacuees returned to smoldering or completely burned down remains of their homes destroyed in raging fires that have killed 17 people, charred over 14,000 acres, and damaged 9,300 homes, businesses, places of worship and more.

Zo Williams, an author, radio host and of Altadena told California Black Media (CBM), “My childhood is gone. The city will forever be changed by this horrific event,”

Like Williams, many of Altadena’s Black residents are confronting the devastating loss they’ve just experienced and exploring what steps they need to take to move forward.

On Jan. 14, the California-Hawaii State Conference of the NAACP held a virtual town hall to advise fire victims on their legal options. The event was organized in partnership with the law firm Singleton Schreiber.

The NAACP and Singleton Schreiber have filed a lawsuit  against the power company Southern California Edison. The complaint accuses the power utility of starting the fire due to the company’s failure to take “adequate precautions” and improper maintenance and management of electrical equipment it owns.

Gerald Singleton, Managing Partner of the law firm, told CBM, “After a disaster occurs sometimes, people don’t know where to go for resources. The NAACP is on the ground guiding people in the right direction.

The NAACP and Singleton Schreiber, the nation’s leading and largest fire litigation practice, have scheduled a second town hall for fire victims on Jan. 21.

“For over a century, the NAACP has shown up for our community in times of crisis, and this is no exception. Altadena – a community deeply rooted in Black history and homeownership – deserves justice,” said NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson in a statement.

The lawsuit focuses on victims of the Eaton and Hurst fires who own or rent properties in Altadena and Pasadena. Those fires are two out of six in broader firestorm complex that has caused extensive damage across L.A. County. The others were the Pacific Palisades, Lidia, Sunset and Kenneth fires.

On Jan. 17, a town hall was held at a Pasadena Church in Pasadena. Political and civic leaders, businessowners, grieving residents and more came together to share information, reflect on the past, talk about the way forward and assess the damage from the blaze that CalFire has described as the second most destructive wildfire in California’s history. The deadliest and most destructive fire in California history was the Camp Fire, which broke out in Butte County in 2018, claimed 85 lives and caused damage totaling $16.65 billion.

At the meeting, L.A. County supervisor Kathryn Barger said of the Eaton fire damage, “It looks like a warzone, I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Veronica Jones president of The Altadena Historical Society says, “some of the homes that burned down were over 100 years old. This was a tight knit community linked through generations, and more than half the Black residents were homeowners.”

The Eaton fire destroyed important pieces of Southern California’s Black history. The city of Altadena was one of the first places in Southern California where Black families were allowed to buy homes in the Los Angeles area.

Blacks began moving to the incorporated area in L.A. County as early as the 1920s but their numbers grew from about 4% in the early 1960s after the passage of the Civil Rights and Fair Housing Acts to about 20% in the 1980.

Jones said many famous Black Americans have called Altadena home. Willa Beatrice Brown, the first Black woman to earn both a pilot’s license and a commercial license, lived there. So did Jackie Robinson, the first Black man to play in major league baseball. Octavia Butler, world renowned science fiction writer also grew up in predominately Black neighborhoods in Altadena and Pasadena. And Charles White, one of the most important and socially conscious artists of the 20^th century, lived in Altadena on Kent Street in 1959. Two of his most famous works are, “Our War”, and “Mother Courage II”. The city of Altadena named a park after him for his contributions and impact on society called, Charles White Park.

President-Elect of the NAACP-Pasadena Branch Brandon Lamar has started the Dena-Relief Drive. He organized the effort to supply everyday essentials to people impacted by the fires.

“This is a close-knit community of Black Americans who’ve had homes passed down through generations and we want to protect for the generations to come,” said Lamar, who is passionate about residents holding on to their properties and rebuilding.

Some fire victims are reporting that people have already begun to reach out to them trying to purchase their lands and damaged properties.

Pastor Kerwin Manning of Pasadena Church says he didn’t sustain damage to his church or his house but, he and his wife have not been able to return home since they evacuated on Jan. 7. Other members of his congregation were not so fortunate. Seventeen of them lost their homes.

Manning’s church, located at 1515 N. Los Robles Ave. in Pasadena, has become a distribution center for resources going to families impacted by the fires.

Manning says he’s unofficially calling the recovery process, “Operation Beauty Will Rise.”

He quotes Isiah 61:3, “To provide for those who grieve in Zion — to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes.”