Happily Divorced And After

Sheriff, District Attorney Team Up For ‘Operation Smash and Grab’

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney’s Office are teaming up this holiday season for “Operation Smash and Grab.”

“Deputy Sheriffs will be undercover in stores throughout the county with the purpose of arresting actors engaged in retail theft,” said Sheriff Shannon Dicus in a statement. “Working together with our District Attorney’s office, those actors will not only be arrested and booked into jail, but they will be prosecuted and held to answer for their crimes. We want the citizens of our county to have safe and enjoyable shopping experiences.”

D.A. Jason Anderson added, “This holiday season, our office remains focused on ensuring the safety of our community and businesses. By working together with law enforcement and businesses across the county, we will seek prosecution and accountability for individuals who choose to engage in unlawful behavior such as retail theft crimes, buying or selling stolen property, or organized crime schemes at multiple locations.”

Serrano High School Cadet Corps Participate in Annual Bivouac

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Major Bravo and the Serrano High School Cadet Corps held their annual Bivouac on Saturday, November 25, 2023.

“The weekend was full of activities that taught the 20 plus students about land navigation, first aid, survival craft, and archery — all while enhancing their leadership and communication skills,” said District Director Kimberly Mesen, who was honored to accept a Certificate of Appreciation from the Cadet Corps during the event.

Additional thanks to CO Nance, who planned the entire Bivouac schedule, and to Mojave Archers for hosting!

Ophelia’s Jump Presents The World Premiere Of “Sealed Orders”

UPLAND, CA—- Ophelia’s Jump Productions (OJP) will present the world premiere of Sealed Orders, written by Claremont playwright, Jean Collinsworth and directed by Ophelia’s Jump Founding Artistic Director, Beatrice Casagrán. The production will be performed at the Ophelia’s Jump Theater, located at 2009 Porterfield Way, Suite H, in Upland, from November 24 through December 10, 2023.

The cast includes Kelly Franett* (Measure for Measure, OJP) as Herman Melville, Jenny Buchanan* (Native Gardens, OJP) as Lizzie Melville, Sofia Levi as Bessie Melville, David Duarte Guzman as Malcolm Melville, Allison Meister as Mary Sullivan, Jeff Sable* (Native Gardens, OJP) as Richard Henry Dana, Ralph Merant as Robert Morris, Stacey Patiño as Olive Fairchild and Edgardo Flores as Matenga Te Hiko.

Herman Melville, author of the metaphysically loaded, Moby Dick, had four children. Two left home early estranged from a father whom they described as a tyrant. A daughter, Bessie, remained at home and never married. In the fall of 1867, Malcolm, Melville’s eldest son, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at age 18. The likely suicide was quickly covered up by the Melville family. This historically based drama explores the family dynamics that led to Malcolm’s desperate act and how the tragedy affected Melville’s later work.

SEALED ORDERS

  • Written by Jean Collinsworth
  • Directed by Beatrice Casagrán
  • Regular Run – November 24 through December 10, 2023
  • Featuring: Kelly Franett*, Jenny Buchanan*, Sofia Levi, David Duarte Guzman, Allison Meister, Jeff Sable*, Ralph Merant, Stacey Patiño and Edgardo Flores. *member of Actors’ Equity Association

LOCATION

2009 Porterfield Way, Suite H, Upland, CA 91786

TICKET INFORMATION

All seats $32 and $25 for college students with ID. Pay What You Can/Pay it Forward Thursdays. Available on opheliasjump.org or by phone at 909-734-6565. Group discounts available.

“In All Your Getting, Get an Understanding!”

By Lou K. Coleman

Because there can be no doubt that we are living in the last days. The signs we are seeing and the things taking place in this world point to the soon coming final events, the mark of the beast, the time of trouble and the return of Jesus Christ. In all your getting, get an understanding! [Proverbs 4:7].

You can know what the signs are that will precede Christ’s coming and watch for them. Why stay in ignorance about the meaning of the events taking place around you? Jesus commands watch and to be ready. [Luke 21:36]. I tell you; your entire life is about to change. Events will unfold soon to destroy the world’s way of life as we have known it. Soon, mankind will suffer through the most devastating, bloody war in human history—called, in biblical terminology, the Great Tribulation. [Matthew 24:21–22]. We are now approaching that time, and these things are now being revealed. [Daniel 12:10]. In all your getting, get an understanding!

We are living in a time like no other before us, and yet just as in the days of Noah and Lot, people continue to ‘eat and drink’ and live as if nothing is going to happen.

What willful ignorance! The truth is that God is shaking all that can be shaken. And what is still to come is too dreadful to think about.

Listen in [Romans 13:11] we are given a warning. “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now, is our salvation nearer than when we believed.” The Apostle Paul is telling us that we need to be aware of the times in which we live and act accordingly. Jesus also stressed the importance of this when He asked, “Can you not discern the signs of the times?” [Matthew 16:3]. I tell you; you must understand the spiritual significance of current events. We are not living in ordinary times. We are nearing the end of an age—the end of a civilization. So, in all your getting, get an understanding. A world-shaking crisis is inexorably building and will, in the near future, explode the appearance of normalcy. You need to know that the progression of disturbing news stories is not random and inconsequential. In fact, they foreshadow remarkable key trends and specific events that will change everything you are familiar with in the next few decades!

Get wisdom! Get understanding! Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you; Love her, and she will keep you. Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore, get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.  [Proverbs 4:5-7].

2024 Legislative Session: Black Caucus Members Named as Committee Chairs

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Several Black legislators serving in the California state Assembly have been appointed as committee chairs for the 2024 legislative session. All are members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC).

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister), who was elected to the position five months ago, made the announcement November 21.

“The Assembly is unified and ready to deliver,” Rivas said in a statement. “That’s what Californians expect from their Legislature and that’s what this team will achieve.”

In a statement to Assembly Chief Clerk Sue Parker, Rivas, who succeeds former Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood), appointed these CLBC members to chair committees: Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), chair of the Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism Committee; Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda), chair of the Health Committee; Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights), chair of the Natural Resources Committee; Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), chair of the Public Safety Committee; and CLBC chair Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), chair of the Transportation Committee.

Assemblymember Tina Mckinnor (D-Inglewood) serves as chair of the Public Employment and Retirement Committee.

“I am thankful to @CASpeakerRivas for entrusting me with the responsibility of chairing the Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism. Ready to get things done, and fully committed to collaborating with all Members and building on @QuirkSilvaCA’s time as Chair,” Gipson posted Nov. 22 on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

McCarty expressed his commitment to work in the interest of his constituents and others around the state.

“Many topics this panel covers are top of mind for all Californians. “I look forward to moving balanced and common-sense policies next year.”

Bonta thanked Rivas for putting his faith and trust in her and Assemblymember Jim Wood, who represents the Second Assembly District. Wood was appointed Speaker pro Tempore.

“I’m honored and humbled to serve as Assembly Health Chair,” Bonta posted on the social media platform X. “I look forward to fighting for true access to high quality, affordable healthcare for all Californians.”

In addition to the CLBC members assuming committee leadership roles, Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa) has been appointed as chair of the No. 1 Budget Subcommittee on Health and Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside) is

taking the helm of the No.2 Budget Subcommittee on Human Services. Weber is currently running to replace Sen. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), who terms out in 2024.

Assemblymembers Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) and Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), who are termed out at the end of 2024, have been replaced as chairs of the Appropriations and Public Safety committees, respectively. Jones-Sawyer is running for the L.A. City Council District 10 seat and Holden is running to serve on the L.A. County Board of Supervisors.

McCartys’ Assembly term ends at the end of 2024, because he has chosen to run for Mayor of Sacramento instead of seeking re-election for his Sixth District seat.

Several Sacramento insiders who wished to remain anonymous, expressed their surprise to California (CBM) about Rivas’ decision to replace Bryan, the former Assembly Majority Leader, with Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Davis).

In that role, Bryan was second-in-command in the Assembly.

In his new role as chair of the Natural Resources Committee, Bryan will oversee state agency activities and Assembly policy involving air quality, climate change, energy efficiency, renewable energy, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), coastal protection, forestry, land conservation, oil spills, solid waste and recycling.

Bryan went on record to publicly accept his new role with grace.

“I’m looking forward to Chairing the Natural Resources Committee next session. Thank you @CASpeakerRivas

for this important appointment,” Bryan stated Nov. 21 on X.

Rivas appointed 17 women to leadership positions, a new record for the Assembly. Wilson, who was formerly Majority Whip, is now the first Black woman in California history to serve as chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee.

The Transportation Committee oversees legislation, public issues and the operations of several state agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, California Transportation Commission, Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and California High-Speed Rail Authority.

“It is an honor to be appointed to serve as the Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee,” said Wilson in a statement.

“Transportation impacts each and every Californian in a significant way,” Wilson continued. “From improving California’s public transit systems, to improving our roads and highways, transportation equity, expanding clean technology use, and mitigating the environmental impacts of our transportation sector, I’m ready to dig in on these crucial public policy challenges and map out a state transportation plan that addresses California’s needs for generations to come.”

 

In Senate Run, Rep. Barbara Lee Takes Lead in Democratic Convention Delegate Poll

By Tanu Henry, Lila Brown and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

In almost every poll conducted so far on the 2024 California senatorial election, Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-12) has trailed her two closest opponents in the race, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA-30) and Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA-47).

However, a poll conducted at the California Democratic Party Convention in Sacramento — which began November 17 and was shut down a day later due to pro-Palestinian protests — Lee’s fate changed.

On November 20, Lee’s campaign issued an announcement.

“We want to make sure you heard some exciting news. At the California Democratic Party Convention this past weekend, delegates came together to vote on an endorsement in the U.S. Senate race,” the message read. “While no candidate received the endorsement (as there is now a 60% threshold), Congressmember Barbara Lee came out on top!”

In the Democratic delegate poll, Lee led with 41.47% (963 votes), followed by Schiff with 40.18% (933 votes) and Porter with 16.06% (373 votes).

“While other candidates used their massive fundraising war chests to influence the voting, we organized on the ground, delegate by delegate, to come out on top. And this is exactly how we are going to win this primary race in March,” said Lee.

Law Enforcement Leaders Share Plan to Fight Smash-and-Grab Retail Theft During Holiday Season

By Tanu Henry, Lila Brown and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

A video recently went viral online showing a brazen flash mob of about 17 young people robbing a Nike store in Watts, a neighborhood in Los Angeles. The culprits got away with an estimated $12,000 worth of goods.

This incident along with many others like it capturing the growing incidents of violent store heists in the Golden State prompted State and Local Law Enforcement to highlight new and intensified efforts to combat theft during the holiday shopping season.

On November 20, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is increasing statewide efforts to combat organized retail crime.

“When criminals run out of stores with stolen goods, they need to be arrested and escorted directly into jail cells,” Newsom said in a statement. “Leveraging hundreds of millions of dollars in law enforcement investments, the California Highway Patrol — working with allied agencies — is increasing enforcement efforts and conducting and supporting covert and confidential takedowns to stop these criminals in their tracks during the holiday season, and year-round.”

As part of the Governor’s Real Public Safety Plan, the CHP is increasing its law enforcement presence in key retail districts across California and its Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) is increasing enforcement efforts through proactive and confidential law enforcement operations with allied agencies and retail store security outfits through the holidays — keeping more shoppers, merchants, and retail districts safe.

The Governor’s office hosted a news briefing featuring California Highway Patrol (CHP) Commissioner Sean Duryee, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Assistant Sheriff Holly Francisco and District Attorney Brooke Jenkins.

“The men and women of the California Highway Patrol are working around the clock to keep shoppers, merchants, and retail districts safe this holiday season– and year-round,” said Duryee. “Much of our task force’s success can be attributed to the strong working relationships we have with our law enforcement partners throughout the state and the rapport we have cultivated with the retail industry.”

“My office takes these cases seriously and will continue to do our part to hold those who engage in this behavior accountable,” said Jenkins.

“These crimes are deeply impactful and will not be tolerated. Law enforcement agencies are working together to identify, arrest, and prosecute the thieves and those who traffic in stolen merchandise.”

Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney John McKinney has been a vocal critic of current DA George Gascón because the Sheriff’s Department will no longer detain suspects over crimes like theft and shoplifting since new zero-bail policy went into effect on October 1.

“These robberies aren’t borne out of desperation. They’re the result of having a district attorney who won’t enforce the law,” McKinney told California Black Media. “As long as criminals know there won’t be any accountability for their actions, then retail businesses of all sizes will continue to operate in constant fear and eventually depart for safer cities. Beefing up law enforcement may provide some deterrence, but, ultimately, we need a district attorney that understands accountability is a necessary part of a safe and functioning society.”

Female Filmmaker Duo Releases Thriller That Confronts Culture’s Beauty Obsession

Eyeam Cinema’s new film “Clinic” is both entertaining and thought-provoking on the subject of popular cosmetic procedures that compel women to put their health and lives at risk.

ATLANTA, GA—- A new thriller with a unique storyline and surprising plot twist goes behind the operating curtain of an underground cosmetic surgery clinic where a myriad of terrifying encounters await. Clinic takes viewers on a suspense-filled journey into a clinic that upends one woman’s life forever. The latest movie released by the Atlanta-based female filmmaker duo Aleshia Cowser Jackson and Sharna L. Brown, Clinic follows a young single mother who decides to get a Brazilian Butt Lift against professional opinion. What was meant to be a three-hour procedure turns into a fight for her life and the gut-wrenching ordeal is portrayed on screen by Eyeam Cinema. Clinic is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.

“We’re proud of this film,” says Aleshia Cowser Jackson, the founder and CEO of Eyeam Cinema. “Our goal with this film, as with all of our films, was to find the middle ground between entertainment and intentionality. We know the power of media. Thus, our films are intended to be both thought-provoking and entertaining, and this film raises some pretty complex questions.”

Tough topics are the norm for Jackson and Brown, who write, direct and produce their own films, as well as provide full-service production and distribution services for other filmmakers and creatives seeking to bring their ideas to life.

The movie Clinic is a prime example of Eyeam Cinema’s commitment to its unique form of collaboration. Eyeam Cinema teamed up with director and cinematographer Aarron Tyson, the CEO of Music Mob. Tyson served as a creative producer and music composer on Clinic–lending a variety of talents to aid in the success of the project.

“Our entire approach is collaborative, from start to finish,” shares Sharna Brown, the president and Chief Operating Officer of Eyeam Cinema. “We love teaming up with others who share a similar passion for excellent storytelling and filmmaking. We’re here to help our clients achieve the highest quality content and production.”

Clinic is directed by Aleshia Cowser Jackson, and Aarron Tyson, and written by Aleshia Cowser Jackson, Mel Jackson, and Abdul Majid. The movie stars Candice Marie Singleton, Alex Will Brooks and Shavonia Jones.

Mel Jackson, known for his acting roles in Soulfood, The Temptations and Deliver Us from Eva, took on the role of Executive Producer and screenwriter for Clinic, researching and writing on a topic that he believes is timely and important.

“In exploring a solid motivation for our antagonist, I discovered Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and realized it was a compelling and serendipitous opportunity to integrate this important topic into our story,” states Executive Producer, Mel Jackson. “The whole team agreed and believed that by addressing issues like BDD inside the art, we could enrich the work for the actors, profoundly impact our viewers’ experience and hopefully make a positive difference in society,” Jackson states.


About Eyeam Cinema
Eyeam Cinema is a full-service production company committed to providing audiences with fresh and exciting stories that touch hearts, make audiences laugh, and think deeply about the world around them. Established in 2014 by Aleshia Crowser Jackson and Sharna L. Brown, the Atlanta-based production company offers a comprehensive range of services to help filmmakers and creatives bring their projects to life. From conception to completion, Eyeam Cinema’s team of directors, producers, and actors work to ensure that every film contains the highest quality content and production. Eyeam Cinema’s diverse catalog is featured on a variety of streaming platforms including BET+, Prime Video, Lifetime Movie Network, TubiTV, AspireTV, and Pureflix. To learn more visit www.EyeamCinema.com.

Retired Assemblymember Cheryl Brown Re-Elected for Second Term as Chair of California Commission on Aging

By Tanu Henry, Lila Brown and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

Last week, the California Commission on Aging (CCoA) announced that it has re-elected Cheryl Brown as its Chair at its November 9, general meeting in Sacramento.

“Chair Brown will guide the Commission with Vice-Chair David Lindeman, who was also re-elected for the 2024 term,” read the press statement from the CCoA.

Brown, who served two terms in the Assembly representing the 47th district from 2012 to 2016, brings a diverse personal, professional, and public experience, as well as range of skills, to her role on the Commission, including working as a family caregiver. Brown has served as a county urban planner and she is the former co-publisher of the Black Voice News in Riverside, along with her husband Hardy Brown.

After winning re-election, Brown thanked the CCoA.

“I believe in the “California for All” message. To that effort, I want to make multi-generational activities key. We will celebrate 50 Years as a Commission next year and I’m looking forward to leading that effort,” said Brown, who served as a founding member of the Stakeholder Advisory Committee for the California Master Plan on Aging (MPA), in a statement.

The CCoA praised Brown for her accomplishments during her first term.

“Chair Brown led the advancement of CCoA policy priorities, and legislation, and raised the visibility of the Commission,” the statement read.

SBCUSD Board of Education Honors Outstanding Individuals

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—On Tuesday, Oct. 17, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Ramona-Alessandro and Lankershim Elementary Schools, Del Vallejo Leadership & STEAM Academy and Middle College High School (MCHS).

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship, and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the district’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Ramona-Alessandro Elementary School, Principal Teresa Hopkins:
Vivionna Hamilton is a fifth grader and Outstanding Student. Hamilton is a driven scholar who excels in whatever she sets her mind to. She does well academically, plays saxophone in the advanced band and plays on the after-school softball team. Hamilton also works well with others and is very helpful, even representing her classmates as a student council member. Hamilton aspires to become a nurse.

Jason Johnson is a sixth grader and Outstanding Student. Johnson has a good attitude, is in school every day and is helpful to others. He doesn’t give up easily and is quick to correct any mistakes. He currently plays on Alessandro’s soccer team and promotes leadership on the field. Johnson wants to play college basketball or football while studying architecture and engineering in college.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Cathlene Botello is dedicated to Ramona-Alessandro’s School Site Council, providing suggestions and feedback to improve the school. She is a member of Alessandro’s Tiger University, which empowers families to build healthy relationships and college and career readiness for scholars. Botello plays a pivotal role in the lives of her children and makes a positive difference in the lives of others.

Secretary Ashley Dorsey is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Dorsey has an unwavering commitment to Ramona-Alessandro and the community. She has a collaborative spirit and the ability to work with others. Her participation with the PBIS team and family nights and other events contributes to Alessandro’s positive culture and success. Dorsey inspires others through her positive attitude and strong work ethic.

Demonstration teacher Shannan Usher is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Usher prioritizes the academic and personal growth of her scholars above all else. She holds the belief that every scholar can succeed and tailors the instruction to meet their diverse learning needs. Usher views each day as an opportunity to ignite scholar’s curiosity, inspire critical thinking, and foster a love of learning.

Lankershim Elementary School, Principal Evette Peters:

Veronnika Palmer is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Palmer is very kind and helpful. She helps her classmates if she sees they are struggling. She is always on task, has a very positive attitude and tries to excel at all she does! Palmer plans to study Environmental Science in college to help protect plants because they are a valued food source, and she wants them to still be around.

Diego Ramirez is a sixth-grader and Outstanding Student. Ramirez’s enthusiasm for learning is not only obvious from his exceptional grades but also in the way he inspires his classmates to reach for new heights. His leadership in group projects and his willingness to help others in need have enriched the classroom environment. Ramirez wants to attend college and join a Major League Baseball team.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Samantha Liotta has been actively involved at Lankershim since her oldest child was in kindergarten, and he is now a high school senior. She has volunteered in numerous classes over the years, and she continues to help teachers long after her own children have moved on to other classes. School staff are proud to call her a Lankershim Lion.

Bilingual Attendance Assistant Susie Vazquez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Vazquez goes beyond just marking attendance. Her commitment, skills, professionalism and genuine passion for her role have not only strengthened Lankershim’s attendance system, but also built invaluable connections with the diverse scholar and parent community.

Kindergarten Teacher Gail Shaw is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Shaw has been a beacon of commitment and excellence in education for more than 30 years. Gail consistently goes the extra mile for her students and their parents, ensuring they receive the utmost support for academic achievement. She works tirelessly to ensure that she is aligned to site and District goals and focuses on results together as she leads her kindergarten team.

Del Vallejo Leadership & STEAM Academy, Principal Jackie Maner:

Eighth-grader Tyree Hollins is an Outstanding Student. Hollins is a kind and extremely respectful young man. He always gives 110% to the task at hand. He is a role model on campus and is always the first scholar to volunteer to help others. Hollins doesn’t know which college he wants to attend, but he knows he wants to make friends and enjoy life.

Kimberly Nguyen is an eighth-grader and Outstanding Student. Nguyen’s drive to learn pushes those around her to reach higher in an effort to keep up. She is also compassionate, going out of her way to help her peers and staff. Nguyen’s favorite class is STEAM, and she credits her teacher Nicholas Destasio for helping her to express her creativity in a meaningful way. Her career goal is to become an animatronics designer.

Marisol Delgado is an Outstanding Parent Award winner. Delgado is a constant presence on the Del Vallejo campus. She is more than an advocate for her son. She is his champion. Whether it’s volunteering to attend field trips, participating on parent advisory councils or serving as a liaison between the District and school, Delgado is all in. She helps to make Del Vallejo a great place to learn and grow.

Outstanding Custodian I Marcelle Baber is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Baber has been essential in the maintenance of a safe and positive environment at Del Vallejo by way of the cleanliness of the campus and the pride and enthusiasm he takes in performing his daily tasks. His productivity and outcomes reflect his dedication to SBCUSD and the community at large. And as an employee and a human being impacting the lives of children, Baber is a testament to the true spirit of Basics of Excellence.

Elizabeth Thomas is an Outstanding Certificated Employee and Middle School Science Teacher. She approaches her work and customer service with positivity and optimism. Her approach to education is deeply rooted in doing what’s best for every person she encounters. And Thomas’s actions and work habits are guided by her sense of purpose, positive passion and emotional commitment to her students.

Middle College High School, Principal James Espinoza:

Senior Anthony A. Lopez is an Outstanding Student. Lopez works hard in all of his classes, both high school and college, and currently has a 4.82 G.P.A. As an exemplary Peer Leader, he goes out of his way to help his classmates and the MCHS staff. During a recent Peer Leader event, Lopez worked behind the scenes supporting others and problem-solving. Lopez plans to continue his college education at UCLA before serving others through a career in medicine.

Nishia McCain is a senior and an Outstanding Student. She started Middle College’s first Mock Trial team and scored perfect 10s as a defense or prosecution lead attorney in every match. As ASB president, she’s demonstrated her passionate, creative, risk-taking and totally collaborative leadership style that has inspired every grade level and club this year. McCain plans to become a civil rights attorney, where she will serve our community and close equity gaps.

Hardy Brown, Jr. is an Outstanding Parent. Brown is an amazing advocate for MCHS, promoting the dual enrollment site as a means for closing equity and college completion gaps. He’s influenced many students and their families in their decision to apply to and attend MCHS, not just his own children, Peyton, a current 10th-grade student, and Jordan, a 2016 alumnus. And Hardy Brown, Jr.’s speech at the school’s 10-year anniversary was truly inspiring.

Custodian I Silvia Hernandez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Hernandez demonstrates love for the MCHS Wolverine family by working tirelessly to make sure the site is clean and ready to provide a welcoming and accommodating place for students and visitors. Hernandez goes above and beyond in all she does, including picking up all trash on the perimeter of the school each morning before the school day starts.

Math Teacher, Dept. Chair, Math/Tech Coach Axel Olson is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Olson is known for his positive passion and has a sense of purpose, seeking to close student equity gaps and meet Middle College goals. During distance learning, he served by helping the entire MCHS staff become experts in Google Classroom.