LOS ANGELES, CA—Forest Lawn–Glendale celebrates Black History Month with a free, family-friendly event. The evening features a one-night-only performance of moving and enlightening music, dance, poetry, and special-guest speeches celebrating the African American experience and culture, following a community resource fair and reception.

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 4:00­­-6:00 PM the Black History Month event will commence with a community resource and networking fair with local education, health, housing, and volunteer resources, along with complimentary refreshments and beverages. At 6:00 PM Forest Lawn, in partnership with producer Charles Lane, will present a performance with a troupe of singers and dancers, a five-piece band, as well as distinguished speakers Anita Ortega and Marie Rogers. Dr. Brenda Threatt and Michael Ellington will narrate the evening festivities.

“Forest Lawn looks forward to celebrating Black History Month with inspiring performances that honor the strength and depth of African American culture,” says Rodolfo Saenz, Forest Lawn’s Senior Vice President, Marketing. “From the stories told by the stage performers to the craftspeople and community organizations who participate in the resource fair, this event will honor all aspects the African American experience.”

Forest Lawn’s Black History Month event takes place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 4:00-7:30 PM, inside the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection at Forest Lawn–Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205. Doors open at 4:00 PM for the resource fair and pre-show reception with refreshments, music, and prizes, and continues with a 6:30 PM curtain for the performance. Seating will begin at 6:00 PM and is available on a first come, first served basis; standing room only is anticipated. Admission and parking are FREE.

Forest Lawn Museum’s exhibition Narcissus Quagliata: Archetypes and Visions in Light and Glass will also be on view in the neighboring Forest Lawn Museum until 5:00 PM. It is the first retrospective exhibition devoted to Narcissus Quagliata, one of the most influential figures in glass art from the past 50 years. From technical advances in glass fusing, to radical stylistic innovations, Quagliata has redefined what it means to be a glass artist and has been instrumental in moving stained glass beyond ecclesiastical and domestic settings and into the realms of public art and avant-garde studio practices for contemporary fine art. Visit www.forestlawn.com for more information.

For additional information and media inquiries about the Black History Month event or Forest Lawn Memorial–Parks & Mortuaries, please contact Tom Smith at 323.340.4742 or tsmith@forestlawn.com.

About Forest Lawn Memorial–Parks & Mortuaries

For more than a century, Forest Lawn has been an integral part of Southern California. Since its founding, Forest Lawn has committed itself to providing outstanding service and beautiful environments for family outings, remembering loved ones and commemorating holidays. Forest Lawn’s locations in the Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside counties serve all faiths and cultures, and offer a wide range of celebrations and special events with competitively priced cremation and traditional funeral services throughout Southern California. Glendale – FD 656

About the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection

Located next to Forest Lawn Museum, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection showcases the Crucifixion (195 ft. x 45 ft.), which is the largest painting in the Western United States. It was painted by Polish artist Jan Styka in the 1890s. The building also houses the Resurrection (70 ft. x 51 ft.), which was painted by American artist Robert Clark in 1965. Visitors can view the newly revamped 18-minute, documentary-style audiovisual program, which includes a new video and narration that tell the history of two colossal paintings and the unique building that Forest Lawn created to house them. The audiovisual program runs Tuesday–Sunday on the hour (10 AM-4 PM, closed at 1 PM for lunch). Closed occasionally for special events. For more details about the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, visit https://forestlawn.com/exhibits/the-hall-of-crucifixion-resurrection-2/.

Great Mausoleum visiting hours: Daily from 9:30 AM–4:15 PM

Admission and parking to Forest Lawn Museum, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, and the Great Mausoleum are FREE.

For more information or to schedule a free group tour, please call 323.340.4782, email museum@forestlawn.com, or visit https://forestlawn.com/museum.

The Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection is located at Forest Lawn—Glendale, 1712 S. Glendale Blvd., Glendale, CA 91205. Please note, the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection is located at the top of the hill within Forest Lawn-Glendale. Please follow event signage. 

About Forest Lawn Museum

Forest Lawn Museum first opened in 1952 and is now comprised of three galleries and a gift shop. The renowned permanent collection of sculpture, stained glass windows, mosaics, and architecture is spread across Forest Lawn’s six Southern California locations. Forest Lawn’s founder, Dr. Hubert Eaton, wrote in his Builder’s Creed that our park should be “a place where artists study and sketch; where school teachers bring happy children to see the things they read of in books.” In that spirit, selections of Forest Lawn Museum’s permanent collection of photographs, paintings, and bronze and marble sculptures are on display in the museum’s front gallery. Forest Lawn Museum typically dedicates two galleries to world-class rotating exhibits, which focus on topics ranging from aerial photography to puppetry to stained glass.

Forest Lawn Museum is located adjacent to the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, which houses the Crucifixion, a 195-foot wide by 45-foot-high painting by Polish artist Jan Styka. Other notable pieces in Forest Lawn’s collection can be found in the Great Mausoleum, including the Last Supper stained glass window by artist Rosa Caselli-Moretti, the Poets’ Windows, and marble replicas of Michelangelo’s Moses and Pietà.

The Hijacking of Hip-Hop: Money Over Morals

By Jasmyne Cannick

Once upon a time a long time ago in a land not that far away, hip-hop was the voice of the streets. It was a movement, a message, and a megaphone for Black empowerment and communal struggle. Born from block parties and sound systems in the Bronx, it was raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically Black. It wasn’t just music, it was a blueprint for survival. But somewhere along the way, the cipher got hijacked by the almighty dollar, and now we’re left wondering: when did hip-hop trade its soul for a stack?

They Caught the Vapors

Let’s talk about some names—Soulja Boy, Rick Ross, Nelly, and the Doggfather himself, Snoop. These are the same artists who once rode waves of Black creativity, who stood on the shoulders of a community that built them up, only to later moonwalk into Donald Trump’s inaugural events like it was a VIP lounge. And yes, Black people have every right to critique that. These men owe their fame to the culture we created. The beats, the bars, the slang—none of it exists without us. But when the culture needed them to stand for something bigger than their bottom line, they cashed the check and danced anyway.

The hypocrisy is staggering. These Black hip-hop artists celebrating the election of Donald Trump is baffling enough, but the timing adds insult to injury. In Trump’s very first hours in office, the man they were hyping up wasted no time signing executive orders that directly harmed the same Black and Brown communities that built these artists’ careers, including his pardoning of leaders from extremist groups like the Proud Boys and the Oath Keepers—organizations tied to white supremacist ideologies and violent white-power movements. The communities that bought these artists’ albums, filled their concert venues, and turned them into icons deserved loyalty—not performances for a man who championed policies and alliances that screamed contempt for those same fans. It’s a betrayal that makes their actions not just tone-deaf but outright disgraceful.

And it must be mentioned that Snoop Dogg’s decision to perform at a Trump-related event directly contradicts his outspoken criticism of Trump in 2017. Back then, he didn’t mince words. He was vocal about rejecting Trump and everything he stood for, positioning himself as someone who wouldn’t sell out for any price. Fast forward to now, and his involvement in a Trump celebration feels like a complete 180, leaving fans questioning his authenticity and commitment to the principles he once preached.

That’s why we’re upset.

The Crossover

We’ve seen this coming for a while now. The slow but steady shift from hip-hop as a movement to hip-hop as a money-making machine has been happening for decades. It was only a matter of time before we hit this inevitable and embarrassing moment—seeing artists like Snoop, Nelly, Rick Ross, and Soulja Boy performing at Trump inauguration events. This didn’t happen overnight–it’s the result of years of prioritizing profit over principles, where the culture that once stood for resistance and truth now bends to the highest bidder.

Let’s not sugarcoat it: Trump’s inauguration wasn’t some neutral gig. It was a stage built on policies and rhetoric that harm Black and Brown communities. To stand on it as a Black artist, pocket the money, and then retreat to your mansion feels like the ultimate betrayal. It’s the kind of betrayal that comes when money stops being a means to an end and becomes the entire purpose of existence.

And this isn’t just about a few performances–this has been an ongoing systemic shift. Today’s hip-hop lyrics have gone from rallying cries of resistance to open love letters to luxury. Rappers used to talk about surviving the struggle–now it’s all about thriving in excess. If it’s not sex or drugs, every other line brags about a Birkin bag, a private jet, or a stack of cash that’s apparently so heavy it’s a workout just to hold it.

It’s not just irritating–it’s downright toxic. When every verse worships wealth, it creates a culture where having money is more important than how you got it or what you do with it.

When asked what does it mean when a rapper is called a sellout, Soulja Boy told Genius, “Basically selling your soul, doing something that you wouldn’t normally do.”

Sadly, performing for a Trump inauguration event is right on brand for Soulja Boy. In his n-word and profanity-laced tirade on social media, he bragged about how Trump put money in his pocket while “Obama” and “Kamala” never called him . By his logic, the devil himself could show up with a check, and as long as he’s getting paid, Soulja Boy would gladly sell everyone out.

C.R.E.A.M.

Soulja Boy and artists like him have normalized moral bankruptcy as long as it comes with a seven-figure deposit. Meanwhile, the communities that gave hip-hop life are still struggling. The inequality that hip-hop once called out is still very much alive, but you’d never know it from scrolling through Instagram feeds full of Lambos and diamond chains.

The saddest part? The shift wasn’t inevitable. Hip-hop didn’t have to go this way. The genre’s pioneers built something that was powerful, authentic, and rooted in the idea of collective progress. Money was never the enemy, but it wasn’t the goal either—it was a tool. A means to uplift the community, to build something lasting. Somewhere along the line, that message got drowned out by the sound of clinking champagne glasses.

We’re not saying artists can’t make their money. We’re not saying success is a bad thing. But when the pursuit of wealth becomes the defining characteristic of a genre that was built on community, it’s time to pause and reflect.

The Message

Hip-hop is supposed to be bigger than flexing on the gram. It’s supposed to be about truth, resilience, and resistance. Those of us old enough to remember the history and evolution of hip-hop know this better than anyone. We remember when it was a lifeline, a mirror for the struggle, and a call to action—not just a showcase of wealth. But for younger generations, some of whom have only ever known this new iteration of hip-hop obsessed with money and status, it’s a different story.

So yes, folks have every right to question when the moves don’t align with the culture. It’s not just music—it’s our culture. And if we don’t hold it accountable, who will?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group

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

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

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

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

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

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

Event Details:

What: 45th Annual Black History Parade & Expo

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

Where: Historic Downtown Riverside

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Hosts

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

By Joe W. Bowers Jr | California Black Media?? 

California Department of Finance Director Joe Stephenshaw, standing in for Gov. Gavin Newsom, presented the state’s $322.3 billion proposed budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year at a press briefing on Jan. 10.

The presentation, held at the Media Briefing Room of the Swing Space Building in Sacramento, began with Stephenshaw addressing the devastating wildfires sweeping through Southern California. He affirmed the state’s commitment to enhancing wildfire preparedness and resilience, emphasizing ongoing efforts to protect communities and natural resources.

“The budget I present to you today reflects a balanced approach, one that avoids new cuts to core programs while continuing investments in critical areas like wildfire preparedness, education, and economic resilience,” Stephenshaw stated.

Stephenshaw highlighted the administration’s progress in fiscal management, noting, “Thanks to the budget framework that the Governor proposed last May to not only balance the budget for the upcoming fiscal year but also ensure that our special fund for economic uncertainty was balanced for the next fiscal year, we really went a long way in moving California back onto some stable fiscal footing.”

Newsom officially sent the proposed budget to the Legislature, describing it as a balanced plan designed to maintain fiscal stability while continuing critical investments.

The Governor’s budget proposal projects a surplus of $363 million, alongside $17 billion in reserves, including $10.9 billion in the Rainy-Day Fund and an additional $4.5 billion in the Special Fund for Economic Uncertainties. However, the Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) has expressed a more cautious outlook, estimating a $2 billion deficit, citing revenue volatility tied to capital gains and economic uncertainties.

The proposed budget includes savings from the elimination of 6,500 vacant government positions, generating $1.2 billion over two years. Additional operational efficiencies, such as reduced state travel budgets and IT system modernization, are expected to save $3.5 billion.

Proposition 98, which guarantees a minimum level of funding for TK-12 education and community colleges, is set at $118.9 billion for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Overall, TK-12 education funding totals $137.1 billion, including $83.3 billion from the General Fund. This translates to per-pupil funding of $18,918 from Prop 98 and $24,764 when accounting for all funding sources.

The education budget includes a 2.43% cost-of-living adjustment for Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) to address rising costs. It allocates $2.4 billion in ongoing funding for supporting the full implementation of Universal Transitional Kindergarten, along with $1.5 billion to reduce student-to-adult ratios. Additionally, $8.5 billion is earmarked for school facility modernization, safety upgrades, and universal school meals.

Marshall Tuck, CEO of EdVoice, expressed optimism about the budget’s educational initiatives. “EdVoice is pleased to see the deep focus on literacy instruction and instructional materials in the Governor’s proposed budget, as reading is the most essential skill for future learning and opportunity,” Tuck said. “We must also ensure that teacher training in evidence-based literacy instruction is required for elementary school teachers.”

Higher education will receive $45.1 billion, with investments in equity-focused initiatives at UC, CSU, and community colleges. The proposal includes expanded financial aid through the Middle-Class Scholarship and $150 million to support teacher recruitment incentives, aimed at addressing persistent staffing shortages in public schools.

The budget introduces stricter accountability measures for homelessness funding, including enhanced oversight of the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention program. Frequent reporting of expenditures and outcomes will be required to ensure effective use of funds. Investments also target affordable housing development, including funding for low-income housing tax credits and $100 million for encampment resolution efforts.

California’s persistent wildfire threat, underscored by the fires currently sweeping through Southern California, is addressed with $2.5 billion in prior wildfire funding and an additional $1.5 billion from the Climate Bond. These funds will support critical initiatives such as enhancing CAL FIRE’s capacity, deploying advanced firefighting technology, and implementing preparedness programs that utilize advanced detection and mapping tools to protect vulnerable communities. Additionally, the budget dedicates $200 million annually through 2028-29 for forest and fire prevention programs, including prescribed fire and fuel reduction projects, aimed at mitigating future wildfire risks.

The proposed budget includes programs like the California Competes program and workforce development initiatives that continue to support small businesses including Black Businesses and promote economic growth. The budget also maintains $1.6 billion in public safety funding, including $283.6 million in 2025-26 to enhance enforcement, prosecution, and accountability.

Stephenshaw explained that the budget aims to create opportunities and provide resources to help all Californians succeed, while focusing on the state’s commitment to equity and addressing critical needs. He pointed out challenges like possible Medicaid cuts and changes to immigration policies and emphasized working closely with the Legislature to refine the budget and tackle financial issues.

Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego), Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), stated, “We thank the Governor and Department of Finance staff for their work on this initial budget proposal. While the governor’s spending plan seeks to achieve fiscal responsibility, there is much to do in the way of addressing the economic inequality faced by our most vulnerable populations.” She added that the CLBC is committed to collaborating with legislative colleagues and the administration to safeguard and expand investments in underserved communities.

Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R – Yuba City) offered a sharp critique on the budget, particularly targeting Newsom’s economic policies. “Newsom is doubling down on the same failed programs that stuck Californians with record homelessness, soaring energy and housing costs, and one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation,” Gallagher stated. “The only new thing in this budget is a giveaway to the governor’s Hollywood donors and even higher taxes on small businesses.”

The proposed budget now heads to the Legislature for deliberation and potential adjustments before Newsom revises it in May. By law, the process must be completed, and the balanced budget signed by the end of June when the fiscal year ends.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Solomon O. Smith | California Black Media

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

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

On January 7, 2025, businessman, actor and popular media personality. Jason Lee – who is the CEO, host and owner of the popular media platform Hollywood Unlocked — was sworn into office as a Stockton City Councilmember, representing the city’s 6th District.

He will also serve as Vice Mayor.

Lee, a Stockton native, rose to prominence in the entertainment industry, after overcoming numerous disadvantages in his childhood, including abuse, poverty, homelessness, foster care and violence. Lee details some of these experiences in his memoir titled “God Must Have Forgotten About Me.”

Despite facing numerous setbacks as a young man, Lee says he has dedicated his life to serving others. He began his career in education and probation before transitioning to labor relations. In 2009, he became a Labor Representative for the California Nurses Association in Los Angeles, where he negotiated contracts for registered nurses in private hospitals.

During his time in LA, Lee connected with various influential figures in the entertainment industry and began documenting his experiences on a website he created. In 2015, he founded Hollywood Unlocked, which currently has 3.5 million followers on Instagram and 1.9 million on Facebook.

When Lee announced that he was expanding his focus and running to serve on the city council in his hometown, many in the political arena questioned his motives for running.

Lee recently spoke with California Black Media and shared what drove his decision, the strategy behind his successful campaign, and his plans as he takes office.

“For some, I am reduced to a blogger and a reality star who spills the tea,” said Lee.

“Thankfully they did that. And I was able to put my head down and focus on organizing a phenomenal campaign, finding like-minded people, getting Kevin Hart, Floyd Mayweather and other friends like Babyface, Cardi B and people who had a platform and money to pour into my campaign — and a slate of four candidates running for city council positions. They supported all four of us and we all won. So, now, for the first time ever, you have a slate of people who are all aligned.”

Lee says his motivation to run for office was first sparked by a tragedy at Stagg High School in Stockton, where he used to work and attended as a youth.

Last year, a 15-year-old student, Alicia Reynaga, was stabbed and killed by an intruder on the high school’s campus. After the tragedy, Lee returned home to offer emotional support to the students along with actress Tiffany Haddish. He also planned to work with the city to fund programming to support youth in the city but grew frustrated by the political posturing and red tape he encountered from city authorities at the time.

“Once I saw the politicking around that tragedy, I tried to find people to run. Nobody wanted to run; nobody believed anything could change. So, I called my executive team, moved everything around, and made the decision to run.”

Lee says his campaign was fueled by the memories and lessons of his experiences growing up in Stockton. endured. He realizes that many residents in his district are going through challenges similar to the ones he endured.

“I’m the face of everything they talk about. People politicize topics like homelessness, but you can’t talk to me about homelessness because I was homeless; you can’t talk to me about foster care or young people transitioning out of foster care because that was me; you can’t talk to me about gun violence and crime because not only was I a survivor of that but I watched my brother get murdered. I know what it takes to be able to navigate all of those experiences,” says Lee.

While in office, Lee wants to focus on issues like rent stabilization, police accountability and food deserts. He also plans to launch a voter registration education campaign to get younger and progressive thinkers involved in the political process.

“I ain’t in it to be a politician. I’m in it to be a public servant. On my day job, I may spill the tea, which, in my opinion, stands for the truth, trust, and transparency of my entertainment business. We’re going to spill the tea in Stockton, too. Truth, trust, and transparency.”

While Lee still plans to continue running his entertainment business, he understands his approach to his new position will need to be different from the branded personality the public now associates with his Hollywood Unlocked image.

“I can’t be as reckless in my delivery as I am sometimes over there, because real lives are impacted by the words that I choose over here, and the decisions that I make over here have a very significant impact to people who have entrusted me to and given me to help change what they’re experiencing,” Lee says.

“I take the obligation very seriously,” he added.