SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The Social Lites Inc., have served in helping provide scholarships for African American young men for the past 60 years. This past year with the communities support they were able to award $70,000 in scholarship and awards to their 2024 Knights for their education. This year marks the 58th year of the Social Lites Inc. being in existence in the Inland Empire area. The new season is quickly approaching, and their target population is African American high school seniors in the Inland Empire area who are planning on attending secondary education.

The program provides mentoring, leadership, networking, and guidance our young men to ensure that they are college bound and equipped to succeed in life and to realize their full potential as young men, career professionals, entrepreneurs, and productive outstanding citizens.

Please reach out to the Beautillion Chair, Tina Darling, at (909) 644-5816 or Elsie Paulino (VP/Beautillion Chair) at (951) 205-8823 or Sheri Lewis our Social Lites, Inc., President at (909) 320-0799 or you can email ad_4beauknight@yahoo.com and we will respond within 48 hours upon receipt of your inquiry.  They meet at 468 West 5th Street Room #102 in San Bernardino, 92410 every Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

ETB Host Wallace Allen interviews Areva Martin, the attorney representing the Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors Group, and joining the discussion is the organization’s founder, Pearl Devers. The Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors are victims of what the 1968 report from the California Attorney General’s Office describes as “A city engineered holocaust”, as an estimated 200 African American homes were burned, bulldozed. Demolished in the city of Palm Springs by the Palm Springs Fire Department.  As community organizations and government entities across the state participate in “Unite Against the Hate” activities, beginning September 21, we think that it is important to point out that as we voice our distain for hate, our government institutions are in some places still defending it!

What are the City of Palm Springs, the Attorney General and the Department of Social Services doing about the plight of the Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors of the “City engineered Holocaust”?

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media??

On September. 3, community leaders and civil rights advocates joined lawmakers at the State Capitol to raise awareness about Proposition (Prop) 6, a ballot initiative that aims to ban forced labor in California’s prisons.

California voters will decide the ballot initiative in this year’s November election. The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) introduced Prop 6 as part of the 14-bill reparations package. The State Legislature passed the measure in June with a bipartisan vote, placing it on the November ballot. The Black Caucus proposed Prop 6 as the “Remove Involuntary Servitude as Punishment for Crime Amendment,” under the Assembly Constitutional Amendment 8 (ACA8) to promote justice and equality in California.

Community groups organized a press conference including members of the Black Caucus, The Anti-Recidivism Coalition, The Abolish Slavery National Network, Sister Warriors Freedom Coalition, the ABC Coalition, and the American Civil Liberties Union

Assemblymember and Legislative Black Caucus Chair Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) is the author of the ballot measure and has been supportive of community groups in their efforts to abolish slave labor.

Carmen-Nicole Cox of the ACLU led the rally and condemned forced labor stating that it prevents people from building the necessary skills after they leave prison.

“Slavery never has and never will promote rehabilitation,” said Cox.

Supporters of the reparations bills challenged Republican and Democratic legislators to back the ballot measures and help voters understand the harmful impact of forced labor statewide.

By Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media??

Dr. Mark Ghaly, Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS), announced September 7 that he is resigning from the post- he has held since March 2019 when he was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom.

“Dr. Ghaly’s heroic service to the people of our state and his profound contribution to reshaping California’s health and social services cannot be overstated,” Newsom stated. “For more than five years at the helm of CalHHS, his visionary and compassionate leadership and unwavering focus on protecting the most vulnerable among us has seen our state through unprecedented challenges and historic victories that improve the lives of Californians.”

On June 8, Newsom appointed Director Kim Johnson as the next CalHHS Secretary effective October 1.

Ghaly will stay on at CalHHS through the end of September to facilitate the leadership transition. During Dr. Ghaly’s tenure, which spanned California’s nation-leading response to the COVID-19 pandemic, CalHHS moved forward with many initiatives that focused on providing more stability and opportunity to Californians. These initiatives covered a range of the agency’s functions, including addressing affordability and access to health care and deepening the connection between housing, homelessness and health, including behavioral health.

“I am grateful to Secretary Ghaly for his steadfast leadership and partnership during one of the greatest public health crises of our lifetime. However, it was his unceasing dedication to caring for the needs of all Californians, especially our most vulnerable, that will be his enduring legacy. It is my great privilege to call him a colleague and friend. I wish him the very best as he embarks on his next chapter,” stated Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, who served as California’s first Surgeon General.

Johnson, CalHHS’ incoming Secretary, has served as Director of the California Department of Social Services since 2019 and she has worn a number of hats 2015 to 2019, including Deputy Director of the Family Engagement and Empowerment Division at the agency and Branch Chief of CalWORKs.

By McKenzie Jackson | California Black Media

Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services’ (SFBFS) campus, located on Bell Avenue in the state capital, is set to get a $131,583 security facelift.

The funding is courtesy of the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which has awarded nonprofit community and faith-based groups across the Golden State with financial support to prevent hate-motivated violence since 2015.

SFBFS is home to the largest hunger relief group in Sacramento County and a food bank that distributed 31.6 million meals nutritious meals to people in need in 2023.

SFBFS Director of Communications Kevin Buffalino said the grant money will enhance the safety and security of the food bank site.

“We’ll be adding security lighting, security cameras, access control systems to ensure we continue providing food assistance to over 305,000 people every month safely and without interruption,” he said.

SFBFS was one of 193 community organizations across the Golden State to receive $39 million in awards from the grant program in April to enhance their security. In late July, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the state’s Office of Emergency Funding is accepting applications from community-based nonprofits to apply for $76 million in expedited funding from the security grant program.

According to a 2023 hate crimes report compiled by the California Department of Justice, Black Californians remain the most affected group by hate crimes. Hate incidents and hate crimes targeting Jewish, Muslim and LGBTQ people are also increasing.

Newsom said an attack against any community is an attack against all of California and its values.

“Every Californian deserves the ability to worship, love, gather safety, without fear or hate,” he said in a news release. “This new round of funding is aimed at helping high-risk organizations protect themselves against violent attacks and hate crimes.”

Funds are awarded through a competitive grant process in which groups, particularly those targeted on the basis of race, religious affiliation, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, immigration status or similar criteria may apply.

The monies allow organizations such as Black and LGBTQ+ groups, churches, synagogues, mosques, and other houses of worship to implement security equipment upgrades such has access control systems, doors, gates, high-intensity lighting, and inspection and screening systems.

Requests for proposals are on the Office of Emergency Services website. Groups eligible include ones exempt from taxation under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 23.

Because anti-Black hate crimes continue to be the most prevalent in the Golden State and last year there was an increase in bias activity against Jewish. Muslim, and LGBTQ+ communities, Newsom increased funding for the grant program, which added an additional $20 million for nonprofits to use.

The initiative awarded $39 million to nonprofits and faith-based organizations in the spring, following Newsom funneling an additional $20 million into the program in October 2023. The state received 1,254 applications from groups.

The program has awarded $152,750,000 in state funding to 924 community groups since the grant program’s beginning.

Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D- Los Angeles) and Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco) said in a statement that the California Legislature will stand firm in its commitment to support vulnerable communities targeted by hate despite budget difficulties. They also thanked Newsom for expediting the deployment of the security funds.

“We have no doubt that this funding will continue to make a major difference in protecting the Jewish community and all communities targeted by hate,” Gabriel and Wiener said.

REDLANDS, CA –– The City of Redlands is canceling this Saturday’s Downtown’s Morning Market, Movies in the Park and all other organized outdoor activities through Sunday, Sept. 15, due to unhealthful air quality as a result of the Line Fire and other fires.

Other events and activities that have been canceled include all outdoor athletic field permits and rentals, organized pickleball programs at the Gonzales Center courts and tennis lessons at Ford Park. City staff will reassess air quality on Monday, Sept. 16, to determine if activities may be safely resumed.

Smoke and ash from the Line Fire and other fires in the region has affected air quality over much of Southern California. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued an air quality advisory, with conditions reaching Very Unhealthy and even Hazardous in areas. Conditions may change quickly due to fire activity and weather. Download https://www.aqmd.gov/mobileapp or visit www.aqmd.gov/AQImap to view current air quality in your neighborhood.

More information regarding the Line Fire is available from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection at https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2024/9/5/line-fire.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

In less than two months, Californians will vote on Proposition (Prop) 32. This voter guide is one in a series of articles that will help you understand what supporters and opponents of California’s 10 ballot initiatives are saying about each one.

Prop 32 would increase California’s minimum wage to $18 per hour. It is currently $16 per hour for most people and $20 per hour for fast food workers. Health care workers will eventually see their minimum wage reach $25 per hour, according to a law Gov. Gavin Newsom signed last year.

Supporters of the proposition argue that with the cost of living rising, wages need to increase as well for families to survive. California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Saru Jayaraman, director of the Food Labor Research Center at UC Berkeley, on why she supports a Yes vote for Prop 32.

“I’ve been organizing restaurant workers for 20 years. I’ve never seen a period in which I’ve seen so many restaurant workers working full-time and living in their cars. The cost of living has become an extreme crisis for people at all income levels in California,” says Jayaraman. “When you raise the floor, it lifts all boats. You raise the floor to $18 an hour, people just above $18 get a raise. It’s critical for people to be able to survive here in California.”

Jayaraman also mentioned that while Modoc County has the lowest cost of living in California, the MIT Living Wage Calculator estimates a wage of $20 an hour is needed to cover basic expenses. Closer to $25 an hour would be needed for a family with a child. In large cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, $40 an hour is the estimated minimum living wage.

Opponents of the Proposition argue that small business owners would struggle to adjust to the wage increases resulting in cutting jobs and raising prices for their services. CBM spoke with John Kabateck, state director of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), who is opposed to Prop 32.

The NFIB represents 13,000 small business owners in California and 300,000 nationwide. Kabateck says that a survey of their network reported only 8% of small business owners believe they expect their profits to improve over the next six months.

“I think every employer ought to do the right thing by showing their employees a pathway to economic success,” says Kabateck, adding that a standard minimum wage increase might hurt the bottom lines of those small business owners.

“We don’t believe that a one-size-fits-all kind of a cookie cutter mandated wage on especially on small business owners is going to be the pathway to their success,” said Kabatack. “Frankly, we are witnessing — just in the past several months with some particular industries — the opposite happening. We are seeing the very individuals that minimum wage proponents want to help being harmed. They are not getting the entry-level jobs and not finding that growth opportunities that they should.”

Jayaraman has heard this argument before and does not believe it is a factor when considering how raising the minimum wage can help small businesses.

“The minimum wage has gone up multiple times. It went up to $15. Small business continued to grow in California. It went up to $16.50. Small business continued to grow in California. And that’s because, guess what? When you pay people more, guess what they do? They go spend it. And the small businesses actually benefit from people in their communities having enough to eat out and to buy things.”

Kabateck highlighted that Californian fast-food restaurants have laid off an aggerate of 9,500 workers since April. Pizza Hut and Round Table have laid off approximately 1,300 delivery drivers, citing rising wages as the reason for the issue.

“At the end of the day, they’re sealing the fate of the people that they’re trying to help. And it’s not chicken little, this is not doom and gloom. And this is also not an angry guy saying we shouldn’t help people in the workplace. We got to help them, and we want to help retain them, but this is the wrong avenue.”

A YES vote supports increasing the state minimum wage to $18 per hour by 2026 for all employers and thereafter adjusting the rate annually by increases to the cost of living.

A NO vote opposes this ballot initiative, maintaining the existing law which was designed to increase the minimum wage to $15 per hour for all employers by January 2023 and increasing it annually according to inflation.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

Who is the Antichrist?

The Bible is clear that one man, the Antichrist, will rise up to unite the world under ONE GOVERMENT during the Tribulation. This global dictator will pose as an angel of light, just like his father the devil, but will later act out of his true, evil nature. He will persecute, torture, and kill the people of God as he leads the armies of the world into the Battle of Armageddon. He will be the most powerful dictator the world has ever seen, making Caesar, Hitler, Mao, and Saddam seem tame by comparison. [Revelation 13:1–8] describes the Antichrist as a Beast who is against Christ.

How will you recognize him?

The Antichrist will begin inconspicuously as one of many minor political leaders, but he will gradually grasp more and more power. As Daniel says, the coming world leader will be renowned for his eloquence, which will capture the attention and administration of the world. He will be a man whose appearance was greater than his fellows. He will be strikingly attractive. He will be a clever man of great intellect. The combination of his magnetic personality, speaking ability, and extreme good looks will make him virtually irresistible to the masses [Daniel 7:7-8, 20, 25]. When he comes on the scene, people will flock to him like flies to honey, and they will do anything he asks. Step by step, the Antichrist will promote himself from a European leader to a world leader, to a tyrannical global dictator, and finally to a god. His rise to power will be inconspicuous. It will not be noticed in the beginning and will hardly raise the attention even of those who are closer to the center of action. He will rise out of the general population. A contemptible person to whom royal majesty has not been given. He shall come in without warning and obtain the kingdom by flatteries [Daniel 11:21]. Daniel describes him as somebody who understands sinister schemes for through his cunning…shall cause deceit to prosper under his rule. [Daniel 8:23,25]. According to Daniel he will come in peaceably and seize the kingdom by intrigue. [Daniel 11:21]. He will be speaking great things and blasphemies; against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those that dwell in heaven. The Antichrist will and start his own religion [Revelation 13:5-6].

During the last 3½ years of the Tribulation, the Antichrist will personify Satan himself with all power, signs, and lying wonders [2 Thessalonians 2:9-10].

Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand. It is crucial to be aware of the prophecies regarding the Antichrist and the end times for the groundwork is being laid for the Antichrist’s appearance at the present hour. Current events such as increasing divisions and conflicts between nations, tremendous social unrest, a general hostility toward the Jews and Christianity, rank moral degradation, technological advancements that have enabled widespread surveillance and control, global pandemics, and the probability of a major worldwide economic crisis, are all signs of the last days pointing to the coming of the Antichrist, who will appear as a charismatic and persuasive leader who can provide salvation and deliverance. When in reality, he is a Beast – a human monster whose power comes from the dreaded Dragon — the devil himself. Do not be deceived.

As [M.R. DeHaan] quoted; “Terrible are the days which lie ahead. The rumblings of the coming judgment can be heard in the distance. The clouds are gathering. Inventions…have made men tremble at what lies ahead. There is only one way out, and that is through him [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?”

God offers safety and rescue for those who are His. Statement of Personal Trust in God’s Care [Psalms 46:1-3,7; Psalms 91:1-2]. Declaration of God’s Care for His People [Psalms 91:3-4; 14-16]. The Results of God’s Care [Psalms 91:5-8]. The ones who God protects [Psalms 91: 9-10]. The Means of God’s Care [Psalms 91:9-13]. Promises for the people of God – they are not universal; they are reserved for the people of God: those who have given their life to him [John 10:27-29]. This is a relationship that is made possible through repentance and trust in Jesus Christ. So, if you have not given your life to the Lord, repent and get under the Umbrella of the Almighty God NOW. For not only is the Antichrist coming, and all hell is about to break loose, but judgment will soon follow. The Time is Near!

Then I saw a beast rising up out of the sea. It had seven heads and 10 horns, with 10 crowns on its horns. And written on each head were names that blasphemed God. This Beast looked like a Leopard, but it had the feet of a Bear and the mouth of a Lion! And the dragon gave the Beast his own power and throne and great authority. I saw that one of the heads of the Beast seemed wounded beyond recovery — but the fatal wound was healed! The whole world marveled at this miracle and gave allegiance to the Beast. They worshiped the dragon for giving the Beast such power, and they also worshiped the Beast. “Who is as great as the beast?” they exclaimed. “Who is able to fight against him?” [Revelation 13; Daniel 7].

They did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward [Jeremiah 7:24]. God gave them over [Romans 1:24–28].

By Vickie Davis

My name is Vickie Davis, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for Rialto City Council. As a lifelong resident of Rialto, a proud mother, a licensed clinician, and a dedicated community advocate, I have spent my entire life working to uplift and support our community. Now, I am ready to take that commitment to the next level by serving as your voice on the City Council.

Rialto is more than just my home—it’s where I’ve built my life, raised my children, and dedicated my career to making a difference. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside many of you to address the challenges facing our city, whether through mental health services, community outreach, or advocating for the needs of our most vulnerable residents. I’ve seen firsthand the resilience, strength, and diversity that makes Rialto so special, and I believe that our city deserves leadership that reflects those qualities.

As a licensed clinician, I’ve worked on the front lines of mental health care, helping individuals and families navigate difficult times. This experience has taught me the importance of compassion, understanding, and action—values that I will bring to the City Council. I understand the importance of addressing mental health needs in our community, and I am committed to
ensuring that everyone in Rialto has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

But my vision for Rialto goes beyond just mental health. I am deeply committed to creating a city that is safe, inclusive, and equitable for all. This means advocating for affordable housing, improving public safety, supporting small businesses, and ensuring that our city’s growth benefits everyone, not just a select few. It also means prioritizing diversity, inclusion, and equity in every decision we make—because our city’s strength lies in its diversity.

I am not a career politician; I am a career community advocate. I understand the real issues facing our community because I live them every day, just like you.

My campaign is about people, not politics. It’s about ensuring that every resident of Rialto has a voice in the decisions that affect our lives.

I want to be that voice for you on the City Council, to listen to your concerns, fight for your needs, and work tirelessly to build a brighter future for our city. As I embark on this journey, I ask for your support, your trust, and your vote.

Together, we can make Rialto a city where everyone has the opportunity to succeed, where families can flourish, and where our community continues to be a place we are all proud to call home.

Thank you for considering me as your next City Council member. Let’s work together to create a better Rialto for all of us.

Sincerely, Vickie Davis

As we grow older, our needs and priorities change. In California, a wide range of services is available to help you maintain your independence, stay connected, and lead a fulfilling life. Whether you’re looking for support with daily tasks, health care guidance, or planning for the future, California’s aging services are here to help.

Aging in Place

Many of you may prefer to stay in your own home as you get older. California offers programs that can assist with home repairs, transportation, and in-home care. Additionally, health and social care programs, including day centers with activities like arts and exercise, help you stay independent.

Nutrition Services

You can enjoy home-delivered meals or gather for group meals at local centers. For those with limited income, there are options to get fresh produce and other food benefits through the CalFresh Expansion program.

Health Insurance Guidance

Confused about health insurance options? The Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) provides guidance on Medicare and long-term care insurance.

Support for Caregivers

If you are caring for an older adult, there are programs like Caregiver Resource Centers (CRCs) and the Family Caregiver Support Program offering respite, counseling, and assistance with paperwork. CRCs also provide action plans for families dealing with dementia.

Legal Assistance

Facing issues like consumer fraud, elder abuse, or age discrimination? Legal Services are available to help with Social Security, health insurance, pensions, and more.

Employment Opportunities

Looking for a job? Free training and job placement services are available for older Californians.

Emergency Preparedness

Planning for emergencies is especially important as we age. California offers resources to help you prepare for natural disasters, power outages, and other emergencies. Creating a personal emergency plan, keeping an emergency kit ready, and staying informed about local resources can make all the difference.

All these services and more are coordinated through local Area Agencies on Aging. Find yours by calling the California Aging and Adult Information Line at 800-510-2020 or visiting aging.ca.gov.