Happily Divorced And After

Laura A. Mancha was elected the San Bernardino County Board of Education President on Dec. 11. Mancha, appointed to the Board in 2011, represents Trustee Area C.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- The San Bernardino County Board of Education voted Dec. 11 to elect Laura A. Mancha as Board President. The Board also elected Dr. Gwendolyn Dowdy-Rodgers as Vice President.

Both positions are a one-year term. The County Board of Education holds an election every December for the ensuing year.

Mancha, appointed to the Board in 2011, represents Trustee Area C which includes the school districts of Chino Valley, Cucamonga, Fontana, Mountain View and portions of Chaffey Joint Union High and Ontario-Montclair.

Dowdy-Rodgers, elected to the Board in 2022, represents Trustee Area D which includes the unified school districts of Rialto, San Bernardino City and Snowline Joint.

The other three members of the Board are Ryan McEachron (Trustee Area A), Rita Fernandez-Loof (Trustee Area B) and Andrea De Leon (Trustee Area E).

The County Board of Education establishes policy, adopts an annual budget, approves building plans, and conducts appeal hearings for student expulsions, inter-district transfers and charter school approvals. The Board meets monthly, generally the second Monday of the month. For more information about the San Bernardino County Board of Education, visit sbcboe.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Each year the Miss Black Awareness Scholarship Pageant committee crowns a young lady to represent in Inland Empire with sweet honesty, grace, and integrity. Pagent Director, Charlene Dixon, would like to thank Miss Black Awareness Lydia Blevins and her Royal Court for fulfilling their Royal duties in 2022-2023.

Queen Lydia Blevins and Princess SiYae Purnell crowned 9-year-old Khaleena Brown as the 55th Miss Black Awareness Queen on Saturday December 16, 2023, concluding their year reign.

The Miss Black Awareness Pageant is a family affair from the beginning all the way to the reign of the new Queen.  The pageant committee is proud of the family for supporting their little Queen. It’s this kind of support that the young ladies need to be successful in life.

This year’s Court included: Princess Jewels Holley, Kalani Gray, Duchess Lauren Keys, Pharrah Gray, and Amber Keys, and Queen Khaleena Brown.

“All of our young ladies are title holders, and we hope that they will all wear their crown proudly,” Dixon explains. “Let it be known that they have not reached their destination we’re on a journey together. The qualities that we look for in our Queen, is commitment, dedication, follow through and Khaleena proved to be the ONE that met all of the requirements. The Miss Black Awareness Scholarships Pageant committee is happy that the judges saw sweet honesty, grace, integrity and chose you.

If you missed the pageant, you can meet Miss Black Awareness and her Court at the MLK breakfast at the Ontario DoubleTree, MLK parade in San Bernardino, and San Bernardino County Black History Parade and Expo on February 24, 2024 at Citrus avenue and 210 freeway in Fontana.

Registration for the 2024-25 Miss Black Awareness Scholarship Pageant will begin on June 1, 2024. For more information visit  www.blackawarenessparades.com or call (909) 913-0831.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. has demonstrated his steadfast commitment to the well-being of students by presenting a generous $2.6 million check to the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD).

This funding will facilitate the creation of a student wellness center at Indian Springs High School and enhance the sports field lighting at Paakuma’s K-8 School.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. for his unwavering commitment to our students,” SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano said. “This generous contribution will significantly enhance our capacity to provide comprehensive wellness services. This wellness center and the enhancement of this field will provide invaluable resources, ensuring that our students have access to the support they need to shine academically and personally.”

Supervisor Baca’s contribution underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being in public schools. The wellness center at ISHS will serve as a dedicated space for students to access resources, support services and guidance related to their emotional and mental health.

“Investing in the well-being of our youth is an investment in the future of our community,” Supervisor Baca said. “We are proud to support SBCUSD in their efforts to provide resources for our student’s mental health and wellness. This initiative marks a partnership between the county and district to establish a wellness center at a school site in our region. The wellness center at Indian Springs High and the added lighting at Paakuma K-8 School will play an important role in creating a nurturing environment for our students, setting a precedent for similar collaborations in the future.”

The sports field at Paakuma K-8 School, which serves as a joint-use facility, will offer enhanced recreational opportunities for both students and the Rosena Ranch community.

The check presentation ceremony took place at Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting at the Dr. Margaret Hill Community Room, bringing together community leaders, school officials and partners to celebrate this collaborative effort in prioritizing the mental health of San Bernardino’s youth.

The district is grateful to Supervisor Baca for his continued advocacy and dedication to the well-being of SBCUSD’s 46,000 students, especially because providing social-emotional learning supports is as important as delivering quality academic instruction, Arellano said.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Congratulations to Brenda Dowdy on an incredible 17-year journey at San Bernardino County Schools!  Her unwavering dedication and passion in supporting homeless education students have left an indelible mark. The district wisher her well in her retirement filled with joy and fulfillment!

RIALTO, CA—Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. has allocated county funds for a new, specialized medium-duty truck for the Rialto Fire Department. This effort is part of a broader commitment to improve local emergency response and to enhance the California Fire Service and Rescue Mutual Aid Plan.

“The safety and well-being of our communities is a top priority,” said Supervisor Baca, Jr. “This investment in the Rialto Fire Department highlights our commitment to ensuring that our first responders have the best tools and equipment at their disposal to handle emergencies effectively.”

The acquisition of this medium-duty truck is in line with the county’s ongoing efforts to support and enhance emergency services throughout the region. It represents a significant step in improving the fire service’s operational efficiency and response effectiveness in Rialto and surrounding areas.

The specialized vehicle, equipped with necessary accessories, advanced rescue tools, state-of-the-art communication equipment, lights, sirens, and identifying decals, symbolizes a tangible improvement in preparedness and response capabilities, particularly in addressing the unique challenges faced by fire and rescue personnel.

Supervisor Baca, Jr. added, “Our firefighters are on the front lines protecting our community every day. Providing them with this state-of-the-art vehicle is just one way we can support their bravery and dedication. This is more than just a vehicle; it’s an investment in the safety and security of Rialto and our County residents.”

“Life isn’t measured by the years you live, but by the love you gave and the things you did.”

On Friday, December 15 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., a homecoming service will be held for Maurice C. Robinson at Community Memorial Chapel of San Bernardino located at 738 E. Highland Avenue in San Bernardino. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.

By Lou K. Coleman

Too late! You should have nipped in the bud. Over and over again, God gave you opportunity after opportunity to get it together. But Naw, you thought that you would have time, just like the people whom God invited to the Banquet. He sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, come for everything is now ready! But they all began to make excuses. The first said I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it please excuse me. Another said I just bought five yolk of oxen and I am on my way to try them out, please excuse me. Still another said, I just got married so I can’t come. Then God said, those who were invited will not get a taste of my banquet, it was too late for them to come and partake of the banquet. Stop your crying!

Now if you are reading this and you are putting off salvation, you better think about the consequences of your delay. For in [2 Corinthians 6:2] Jesus says, “In the time of my favor I heard you. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Now is the acceptable time. Now is the day of salvation. Don’t waste the moment.  Remember in [John 8:12-21] Jesus responded to a charge and a question from the Pharisees telling them that if they miss the opportunity, it will never be afforded to them again. I tell you wisdom is the principal thing, but in all your getting get an understanding. How shall you escape if you neglect so great salvation? [Hebrews 2:3].

Remember, Jesus told the Pharisees that after He was gone, they would realize what they had missed. They would then try to search for Him but would be unable to find Him. Don’t you wait until it’s too late! Failure to take advantage of the opportunity which God affords you means that you will die in your sin. Take advantage of the opportunities God’s grace provides.

OTS and Caltrans Encourage You to Plan Ahead for Safer Holiday Travels

ELK GROVE, Calif. — With the holiday season just around the corner, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) are committed to raising awareness about the dangers of impaired driving so that Californians travel safely during this festive time. As celebrations ramp up, it’s crucial to remain vigilant on the roads, particularly when it comes to preventing driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications. By emphasizing the importance of sober driving and encouraging drivers to follow the rules of the road, the OTS and Caltrans aim to make this holiday season joyful, memorable, and above all, safe for everyone on California’s roads.

Being responsible and driving sober are the most valuable gifts drivers can give. Drunk driving remains a chronic issue and represents a major threat to the safety and well-being of the public, especially during the holidays. In December 2021 alone, 1,013 people were killed in the U.S. in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A total of 13,384 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths in 2021 — a 14% increase from 2020.

Additionally, the use of any impairing drug, whether it’s marijuana, prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs, or illegal substances while driving is illegal. Most drugs taken for colds, allergies, and muscle or nerve relaxers can cause drowsiness and impair the ability to drive safely. Combining medicine with alcohol or other drugs increases impairment, making it necessary to stay informed and alert. Any drug that “may cause drowsiness or dizziness” or with a “do not operate heavy machinery” warning label should not be taken before driving. Do your research and understand how certain drugs may affect your driving ability.

To help create safer streets and encourage Californians to take a proactive role in preventing impaired driving, the OTS and Caltrans offer the following tips to celebrate the holiday season responsibly:

• Plan ahead for a sober driver if you plan to drink alcohol or use an impairing drug.
• Don’t let your friends drive impaired.
• If you have been drinking, call a taxi or ride-sharing service.
• If hosting a gathering with alcohol or other substances, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.
• Know your limit. Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is affected by factors like height, weight, food intake, drug, and medication use.
• If you can safely do so, protect others by taking their keys if they attempt to drive after consuming alcohol.

Taking proactive steps such as planning for a sober driver, choosing designated drivers, and making sure guests leave with sober drivers are simple yet effective measures. By understanding the devastating consequences of impaired driving and following the tips provided by the OTS and Caltrans to celebrate responsibly, you can help save lives. Let’s embrace the spirit of the holidays by looking out for one another, making responsible choices, and ensuring that the magic of this season is paired with the gift of safety on our roads.

In 2021, the OTS and Caltrans introduced the “Go Safely” game plan to discourage impaired driving and promote the use of designated sober drivers when attending sporting events, concerts or functions where alcohol is served. Additionally, the OTS grant programs provide funding to agencies and non-profit organizations across the state to address alcohol and drug-impaired driving issues.

For more information and resources on DUI prevention, please visit www.gosafelyca.org or email ContactOTS@ots.ca.gov.

Good afternoon, Ward 6 and the City of San Bernardino,

On December 11th,2023, I was notified that the campaign failed to secure the signatures needed to be placed on the ballot. For this, I take full responsibility and I apologize to you. But this in no way reflects my continued commitment to serve the residents of Ward 6 and the City of San Bernardino. We must now pivot to a Write-In “Kimberly Calvin” for Ward 6 Re-Election campaign.

Life can present many challenges, and we must then choose to face them and continue on our destined journey. I have chosen to face this election as a Write-In Candidate to retain my seat as your Ward 6 Councilwoman.

I have not become the leader that I am without your unwavering support. Each time I have needed you Ward 6 to show up and stand together on behalf of our community, you have never failed me. I appreciate that so very much. Once again, I need your support. Write-In “Kimberly Calvin”

In the past three years, we have fought arm-in-arm to promote our community’s needs. It is evident that we have made great strides together. Within the first three years of my term, we brought forward:

• The new University Parkway/ State Street Expansion Project after 20 years of no movement on the city’s Capital Improvement Plan. This expansion allows for more economic development on the main corridors of Baseline, Highland, and Mt Vernon avenues.
• The current paving project for Pepper Street.
• The development of 94 single-family homes, currently under construction on Highland Ave, after 40 years of no housing development within Ward 6.
• Over 300 affordable housing units are in process within the planning department.
• Partnered with the San Bernardino Police Department, to provide safer communities.
• More street maintenance and tree trimming in the last three years.
• Over 9 million dollars have been awarded to the revitalization of Nicholson Park beginning in January 2024.

Never has Ward 6 received this level of city funding and resources, and for that, we fought together. It is essential that we do not allow past failed leadership and unproven promises to deter us from the progress we have made in our community.

This is a call to action; as your proven 6th Ward leader, I now need you to help me push forward in this fight. On the day you receive your ballot, February 5th, Write-In “Kimberly Calvin” for San

Bernardino City Council. Please share this message with your friends, family, and neighbors. Our life, our community, and our future depend on this.

Humbly and In Community,

Kimberly Calvin, Ward 6 Councilwoman

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

The Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC) is a statewide organization comprised of various associations, community groups and individuals united by a commitment to fight for reparations and reparative justice for the descendants of enslaved Black American men and women.

In 2020, CJEC worked alongside California Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley Weber, when she was an Assemblymember representing the 79th District in San Diego, to author and enact Assembly Bill (AB) 3121. That bill, now state law, created America’s first-in-the-nation Task Force to Study and Develop Reparations Proposals for African Americans.

CJEC was one of seven “anchor organizations” sanctioned by the Reparations Task Force and the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to host a series of “listening sessions” designed to ensure certain communities in the state provided their thoughts and concerns about the work the task force was doing. In addition, CJEC helped the task force evaluate California’s role in slavery and Jim Crow discrimination – and followed that work up with developing resolutions to compensate African Americans for past and ongoing race-based injustices.

During one of CJEC’s signature “listening sessions,” the organization introduced Marian and Michael Johnson, sister and brother, members of a Black family that lost property in Russell City due to eminent domain. Russell City was an unincorporated majority Black community located between the Bay Area cities of Oakland and Hayward. Their story garnered national press coverage.

CJEC is also a community co-sponsor of Assembly Constitutional Amendment (ACA) 8 — the Ending Slavery in California Prisons Act of 2023-204. The California Constitution prohibits slavery and prohibits involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime. Authored by Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), who is also chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, said ACA 8 called for prohibiting slavery in any form, including forced labor compelled by the use or threat of physical or legal coercion in California prisons.

ACA 8 received the two-thirds vote required during the legislative session and a constitutional amendment was placed on the ballot for the November 2024 general election to allow the voters of California to decide its fate.

California Black Media spoke with Chris Lodgson, a CJEC member, about the organization’s advocacy and the work it is doing to support the fight for reparations in California.

What does your organization do to improve the lives of Black people in California?

CJEC works to improve the lives of Black Californians who descend from persons enslaved in the U.S. by organizing, mobilizing, and advocating for strong lineage-based Reparations.

What was your greatest success over the course of the last year?

Over the course of last year our greatest successes include:

First, we helped the California Reparations Task Force successfully complete its work developing Reparations recommendations, which were submitted to the Governor, State Senate and State Assembly.

Second, was the passage and signing by the Governor of legislation we wrote that will require California state agencies to collect data on descendants of U.S. Chattel Slavery. Currently our State does not have a way to measure the living conditions of those of us whose Ancestors were enslaved in this country.

Third, organizing and hosting over a dozen Reparations community meetings, town halls, listening sessions, and panel events.

In your view, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians face?

The biggest challenge Black Californians face is making ends meet to feed and support our families.

What was your organization’s biggest challenge?

The biggest challenge and opportunity our organization faced over the last year was raising awareness about California’s Reparations efforts.

Does your organization support or plan to get involved in the push for reparations in California?

Absolutely. We are California’s first, only and leading state-wide grassroots organization born specifically for lineage-based reparations and reparative Justice.

How can more Californians of all backgrounds get involved in the work you’re doing?

Visit our website at www.cjec.org and sign up for volunteer opportunities, our free monthly Reparations news via email and text updates and donate.