By Tanu Henry | California Black Media

Hundreds of thousands gathered at the 19th annual Taste of Soul Festival in Crenshaw — an event dubbed “California’s largest block party” — on Oct. 19.

At the event, California Black Media (CBM) partnered with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) to spread the word about the California Vs. Hate, a statewide hate crime online resource and telephone hotline, launched in 2023.  The system enables Californians to easily report hate crimes and hate incidents.

“Held in the heart of south Los Angeles on Crenshaw Blvd, over half a million people attend the one-day event that brings out the best our community has to offer,” said Brandon Brooks, Stop the Hate project director at California Black Media.

“The festival promotes local businesses as well as it brings out local and statewide resources to assist community members, Brooks continued. “The day has proven to be a great opportunity to speak to people directly and provide information to combat hate crimes and incidents.”

During the event, Brooks said he, James Williams, Community Based Organization Manger for California Vs. Hate and Leah Brown-Goodloe from CBM informed and shared literature with tens of thousands of festivalgoers about the state’s Stop the Hate resources.

CBM’s Stop the Hate outreach was held at the beginning of United Against Hate Week (UAHW), a commemoration held annually across the country to recognize the fight against all forms of hate.

UAHW was first launched in 2018 by elected leaders, staff, and community groups from 13 cities in the Bay Area who organized a “United Against Hate” poster campaign responding to White supremacists marching in Northern California streets in the aftermath of Charlottesville riots.

In 2018, Los Angeles County, LAvsHate, a campaign that provided anti-hate crime information and resources to report hate incidents and hate crimes.

According to CRD director Kevin Kish, the L.A. initiative provided a model for the state’s program.

Today, UAHW has grown into a national movement with events organized across the country to mark the day.

This year, across the state counties and cities acted and held events to mark UAHW, including the launch of a branded UAHW wrap installed on buses by the Santa Clara County Valley Transit Authority.

Not in Our Town, a Northern California-based anti-hate movement, highlighted 131 events across 92 cities.

“Not only were there public gatherings, but also powerful panel discussions, training sessions, and cultural events promoting unity, understanding, and solidarity. These efforts collectively reflect the growing awareness and action against hate in our neighborhoods,” the Not in Our Town statement read.

In June, California Attorney General Rob Bonta released the 2023 Hate Crime in California Report. It included data and resources supporting the state’s ongoing efforts to eliminate crimes and incidents motivated by racial and other biases.

According to the report, hate crimes in California decreased by 7.1% from 2,120 in 2022 to 1,970 in 2023.

However, incidents and crimes against Black Californians remained higher than average with 518 reported cases in 2023. The next highest reporting of bias events was 199 Anti-Hispanic or Latino incidents.

When it comes to reported hate crimes, we know that Black Californians are the most targeted group for hate and discrimination in our state,” said Williams.  “The California Civil Rights Department wants people to know that we are committed to reaching the Black community through outreach events and campaigns, including our first-ever billboard campaign, forging new partnerships, or increasing awareness about the hotline and available resources to historically hard-to-reach and underserved Californians.”

The Taste of Soul festival was created by Bakewell Media CEO and executive publisher Danny Bakewell Sr. He said Taste of Soul was created to highlight the positive aspects of African American life and “to encourage the enjoyment, respect and appreciation of our community and each other in an atmosphere of respect, peace, pride and pleasure.”

Brooks, who is from Los Angeles, said he was honored to participate in the event and provide a service to the community, which includes many of his friends and family.

“The event is always a beautiful experience to see family and friends enjoying food, music and resources,” said Brooks.

Williams said he wants to remind all Californians that there is “support when you report!”

“No matter your background or where you come from, if you’ve been targeted for hate, you can get help accessing legal, financial, mental health, and other services by calling 833-8-NO-HATE or by going to CAvsHate.org,” Williams added.

How To Report A Hate Crime: 

CA vs Hate is a non-emergency, multilingual hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal. Reports can be made anonymously by calling (833) 866-4283, or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT or online at any time.

Hate acts can be reported in 15 different languages through the online portal and in over 200 languages when calling the hotline. For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911.

For more information on CA vs Hate, please visit CAvsHate.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) Board of Education is proud to announce that it has awarded the Outstanding Community Partner Award to No Kid Hungry, a nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood hunger and reducing food scarcity.

This award, presented at the Board’s Oct. 22 meeting, recognizes No Kid Hungry’s exceptional efforts in supporting SBCUSD’s students and families with access to nutritious meals.

Through its innovative programs and partnerships, No Kid Hungry has played a critical role in ensuring that children in the San Bernardino community have access to the meals they need to thrive, both inside and outside of the classroom. Their work has significantly reduced food insecurity, helping thousands of students stay focused and succeed academically.

“The impact No Kid Hungry has had on our students and families is profound,” said SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “Their commitment to ending childhood hunger aligns perfectly with our mission to provide every child with the resources they need to succeed. This award is a testament to their invaluable partnership.”

No Kid Hungry’s initiatives have supported SBCUSD in expanding access to meals, particularly Breakfast in the Classroom. By working closely with local schools and communities, they’ve ensured that children receive the healthy meals they need year-round.

“We are honored to partner with SBCUSD in the fight against childhood hunger,” said Daisy Munguia, Associate Director, No Kid Hungry California. “Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of students, ensuring that hunger is not a barrier to their education. Our partnership to bring Breakfast in the Classroom to San Bernardino City schools continues to have a significant impact on students’ health, well-being, and their readiness to come to school and learn.”

For more information on No Kid Hungry and SBCUSD’s ongoing efforts to reduce food insecurity, please contact Laura Rice at Lrice@strength.org.

The PAL Center in Muscoy was buzzing with excitement Saturday, October 19th as it hosted the 4th Annual I.E. Live Halloween Extravaganza. Visitors were captivated by a Haunted House featuring expertly crafted scares, drawing long lines throughout the facility. Kids enjoyed free pumpkins and a variety of activities, including face painting, jumpers, pumpkin carving, balloontwister, and a money-grab machine.

A highlight of the event was a performance by A Time 2 Dance, the Fontana-based studio owned by Lxa Arredondo and Jessica Rodriguez. The studio won the I.E. Live performance category at the last event, earning a free promotional video from the I.E. Live Team. The talented young dancers showcased their skills on the newly installed turf field at PAL Charter Academy. The studio offers classes for children aged 4 and up in ballet, jazz, and tap.

Parents appreciated an array of free giveaways, and the excitement continued with raffles throughout the day—one lucky attendee won a 55-inch Smart TV donated by Think Wise Credit!

Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. made a special appearance to distribute candy and present certificates from the County of San Bernardino to event Founder Dwaine Radden Sr. and Coordinator Jasmine Jefferson, recognizing their dedication to the community and youth. After touring the Haunted House, both Radden and Baca praised its impressive design, which provided an authentic scare experience.

Former PCA scholar and valedictorian Louie Gonzalez, now a nurse, was acknowledged for his contributions to the Haunted House, with Radden noting that this year’s attraction surpassed all expectations.

The Akoma Unity Center, led by Kimberly Calvin, brought 50 scholars and staff to join in the festivities, highlighting their commitment to uplifting historically excluded communities of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

Vendors thrived at the event, with Danielle Campbell of Crystal Lyn’s Catering reporting a sellout and already signing up for the upcoming Easter Egg Hunt on April 5th.

Notable attendees included San Bernardino County Board of Education member Dr. Gwen Dowdy-Rodgers and community member Tawnya Rhoades-Hensley, who engaged with attendees about her campaign for the San Bernardino Community College Trustee Board, Area 5.

Coordinator Jefferson emphasized the teamwork that made the event a success, stating that the joy on the faces of thousands of children and parents made all the effort worthwhile. The event continues to grow bigger and better each year!

For more details about this event and updates on future activities, be sure to check out their Instagram page @ielivemarketnite.

ATLANTA, GA— Renowned Christian speaker, teacher, and author Jackie Hill Perry is making waves with her return to music, unveiling her highly anticipated EP, PRACTICE, available now. After a six-year hiatus, this marks Perry’s debut collaboration with Reach Records, solidifying a partnership that promises to redefine her musical journey.

Listen to Jackie’s “PRACTICE” now.

Dive into Jackie’s vibrant world with PRACTICE, an EP with eight electrifying tracks, including the infectious single “Pick It Up.” This standout track showcases a blend of talents, featuring production from industry heavyweights like S1, Epikh Pro, Lasanna “ACE” Harris, and OkayWarren, all while highlighting Perry’s signature lyricism. It’s a fresh sound that invites listeners to experience her artistry in an entirely new way.

Watch Jackie’s “Pick It Up (Visualizer)” now.

PRACTICE symbolizes Perry’s journey back to music after a lengthy hiatus, allowing her to explore new sounds and express her artistry once again following the pandemic. “I remember crying to Preston (Jackie’s husband) and sharing with him that I missed making music,” Perry shared. “I prayed after that and told God that if He wanted me to make music with Reach Records, to make it happen.” Shortly after that, it happened and Jackie shared that she believes “it is a divine connection for this season.”

Perry hosted an exclusive early listening event in Atlanta, which was live-streamed on YouTube for the fans that pre-saved PRACTICE, allowing people worldwide to engage with her new project a couple days before release. Jackie has been outspoken on the impact music has on our life and hopes that this project will provide another option for people to play in any moment of their life that is encouraging and edifying to their walk with Jesus.

True to its name, PRACTICE encapsulates Jackie’s journey of experimentation and rediscovery in the studio. It’s a celebration of reconnecting with her craft and a bold statement about embracing new creative horizons. The EP is now streaming on all platforms, offering fans an engaging and transformative experience that reflects Jackie Hill Perry’s unwavering dedication to her craft and her faith.

See the official track-list here:

1. Practice
2. Ready Or Not
3. Psalms 88 (feat. Sondae)
4. Pick It Up
5. Leave Me Alone
6. First Draft
7. The Blood
8. TBD

For more information on Jackie Hill Perry please visit www.jackiehillperry.com and www.reachrecords.com.

Follow Jackie Hill Perry:

• Website: www.jackiehillperry.com
• Instagram: @jackiehillperry
• Twitter: @JackieHillPerry

Follow Reach Records:

• Website: www.reachrecords.com
• Instagram: @reachrecords

Twitter: @reachrecords

About Jackie Hill Perry:

Jackie Hill Perry is a dynamic artist, author, poet, teacher and speaker whose impactful work has resonated deeply with audiences around the world. When it comes to her music, she is known for her powerful blend of spoken word and hip-hop. In addition to her musical talents, Jackie is an accomplished author, having written several books that explore themes of identity, grace, and spiritual growth. Through all of this, Jackie has captivated fans with her authentic storytelling and profound insights on faith, identity, and culture. Above all of this, Jackie prides herself in being a wife to Preston Perry and Mother to her four beautiful children, Eden, Autumn, Sage and August.

Jackie announced in the summer of 2024 that she would be pursuing music once again after signing with Atlanta based Indie Label, Reach Records. As she gears up to release her first project since 2018, titled PRACTICE, Jackie continues to push artistic boundaries while staying true to her roots. This new project promises to showcase her evolution as an artist and her commitment to exploring the complexities of life and spirituality through her unique lens.

With a devoted following and a strong voice in both the Christian and hip-hop communities, Jackie Hill Perry is not just a musician or a voice; she’s a cultural force, inspiring many to live out their faith boldly. PRACTICE is set to mark a significant chapter in her career, inviting listeners to engage with her journey in a fresh and meaningful way. While her writing remains a vital part of her legacy, encouraging a new generation to seek understanding and connection with God is her mission.

About Reach Records:

Reach Records is an Atlanta based independent hip-hop label founded in 2004 by Lecrae and Ben Washer. Long before acclaim, awards, plaques, chart positioning, and radio play, the two started the label because they both love hip-hop and Jesus. Reach Records was launched with no strategy, no funds, no big players, but they made big moves! Today Reach Records is a trailblazing label with a roster of nearly 10 artists and a staff of 20 who are unashamed about sharing their faith and passionate about hip-hop. Reach Records is committed to building a movement that combines faith with music and popular culture.

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— District Director Kimberly Mesen was pleased to attend the ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration of Be Unique Ice Cream, a mobile ice cream van that provides inclusive ice cream and treats for all abilities.

Be Unique Ice Cream was founded by a loving mother inspired by her amazing daughter, Deja. Deja is a young lady with Autism who adores unicorns, crafts, and seeing people have fun.

Thank you Be Unique Ice Cream for spreading joy one scoop at a time, and best wishes in this new endeavor!

RIVERSIDE, CA – “Step-Up To The Polls,” a special event designed to encourage voting-age African Americans in the Inland Empire to participate in the upcoming elections, will be held Saturday, October 19, at the Culver Center of the Arts in Downtown Riverside.

The event, from 2-5 p.m., will include presentations, step performances and on-site voter registration. It is sponsored by Voteless People is a Hopeless People Committee, a partnership between the Mu Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., local chapters of Divine 9 organizations, Riverside NAACP, BAPAC, and the Black Voice News.

“This is a critical moment for our country and our community. Our goal is to reacquaint African American voters in San Bernardino and Riverside counties with the history and significance of voting and to encourage their participation in the November election,” said Otis Greer, a member of the Mu Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and the committee’s co-chair with Paulette Brown-Hinds. “We also want to emphasize the importance of local elections (mayor, city council, and schools board) that are in many cases more significant for improving the daily lives of voters in this community.”

Brown-Hinds, founder of Voice Media Ventures and publisher of the Black Voice News, said the event will also serve as a reminder of the contributions made by African Americans in preserving voting rights.

“More than ever, we need to honor and celebrate our rights as voters and to make sure that the sacrifices that were made to guarantee those rights is not for naught,” Brown-Hinds said

Attendees are asked to register for this free event: https://stepuptothepolls.splashthat.com.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

Last week, the Kamala Harris campaign released its Opportunity Agenda for Black Men.

On October 16, California Black Media (CBM) spoke with Harris-Walz campaign surrogate, Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA-12), who shared more insights on Harris’ agenda and the importance of securing the Black Male vote.

“She has said very clearly that she wants to earn the vote of everyone. And that means earning the vote of Black men,” said Lee of Harris. “She understands the systemic and historic challenges that Black men have. You haven’ t heard of a presidential candidate coming up with a concrete actual plan and policy agenda.”

The plan’s release came after a string of podcast and interview appearances during which Harris shared her plans to tackle several issues that Black Men specifically face if elected President.

The agenda includes five focus areas based on insights she gleaned from hosting discussions with Black men during her Economic Opportunity Tour:

1. Provide 1 million loans that are fully forgivable to Black entrepreneurs and others disadvantaged groups to start businesses.
2. Champion education, training, and mentorship programs that help Black men get good-paying jobs in high-demand industries It will also develop more accessible pathways for Black men to become teachers.
3. Support a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency and other digital assets so Black men who invest in and own these assets are protected.
4. Launch a National Health Equity Initiative focused on Black men that addresses sickle cell disease, diabetes, mental health, prostate cancer, and other health challenges that disproportionately impact them.
5. Legalize recreational marijuana and creating opportunities for Black Americans to succeed in this new industry.

“[Vice President Harris] knows that Black men have long felt that too often their voice in our political process has gone unheard and that there is so much untapped ambition and leadership within the Black male community,” the language in the agenda states. “Black men and boys deserve a president who will provide the opportunity to unleash this talent and potential by removing historic barriers to wealth creation, education, employment, earnings, health, and improving the criminal justice system.”

Diving into Harris’ agenda, Lee says, reminded her of her own record of supporting Black men over the years as an elected official. In the 90’s, she established the first California Commission on African American Males through which she pressured the state to address urgent economic, health and social challenges specific to Black men.

Harris’ agenda was released after some Black men criticized a recent campaign speech by former President Barack Obama. They accused him of ‘scolding’ Black men because of their hesitancy to support Harris, suggesting that sexism played a role in their disinterest. The fallout from the former President’s comment has left some wondering if the Harris campaign is rolling out the agenda as a response.

“No group of people are a monolithic group of people,” said Lee when asked about Obama’s speech.

“There were different points of views and different feedback. She stated very clearly that she does not expect anyone to vote for her. She’ s not taking any vote for granted. I’ve known her over three decades and I believe she is being herself. She’ s authentic and she cares about making sure that people, I say not only survive, but thrive,” Lee added.

Each of the 5 key points addressed in the Harris Campaign’s agenda, Lee says, has additional clauses that can potentially help Black men and their families thrive. This includes lowering rent; up to $25,000 in downpayment help for first time homebuyers; and cutting taxes for Black men in lower-wage jobs by increasing the Earned Income Tax Credit maximum to $1,500.

Lee says the goal of the Harris-Walz campaign is for more Black men to become “trusted messengers” for the Vice President, explaining her intentions to the community and leverage their own experiences to hold Harris to task for what are looking for politically.

“I think the messages is one of empowerment for Black men — regardless of whether they’ re a blue-collar worker, if they’ re not working, if they’ re in business, if they’re entrepreneurs, whatever background or whatever they’ re doing or experiencing life. I think the authenticity of their experience can only be articulated through them,” said Lee.

“I think it’ s important that they be out there talking about what it means to be a Black man in America and how this can be connected to political empowerment,” Lee added.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

In the unseen realms. It will be more powerful than an atomic burst, yet Silent, Invisible! Suddenly! Inexplicable! A moment coming soon that will change everything and everyone forever. Billions of people will be gone in a flash [1 Thessalonians 4:17; Matthew 24:40-42]. Two shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill the one shall be taken, and the other left. Some will look for those who are missing and wonder what has happened. It will be chaos like never before experienced in the earth. I tell you; something is about to happen in the skies, in the unseen realms.

Don’t be left behind. Repent and turn to God right now! Do not delay another moment. The matter is urgent! After the Rapture, all Hell is going to break loose and according to the Bible, those left behind after the Rapture will experience a seven-year period of tribulation, suffering on earth. This period will include wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes, famine, plagues, military invasion, enslavement and other hardships, culminating in a battle involving the Antichrist and Armageddon. Billions, of people, at least a third of mankind will die. There will be loud voices deceiving many. New laws, old lies. New dilemmas. False religion. Plant life and sea life will be destroyed. There will be no escape.  [Revelation 6:8; Rev 9: 15, 18; Revelation 8:7-13; Revelation 9:1-21; Revelation 16:1-21].

Hear the message. Something is about to happen in the Skies, in the unseen realms and if you haven’t trusted Jesus as your Savior, if you don’t have the life of God in your soul, the Rapture will happen and you will  be left behind. What a sad and tragic thing that would be.

Hopefully, many will read, believe, seek God, repent and be saved. Because what we are witnessing today are but a glimpse of future tribulation [Daniel 12:1] [Matthew 24:21-22; Revelation 6:12-17].

God warns the world to repent and change [Ezekiel 33:11; Isaiah 58:1]. He opens the prophetic scroll with seven seals to reveal the events to occur before His return [Revelation chapter 5; Revelation chapter 6].

But –

As it was in the days of Noah, they were eating, drinking, marrying,  and giving in marriage. They were going on like the world was never going to end, like life would be fine, everything  hunky-dory. Then the flood came and swept them all away.

I tell you, Something is About to Happen in the Skies!

HIGHLAND, CA— — In a celebration of gaming and hospitality excellence, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel received top honors at the prestigious 2024 Global Gaming Awards. Presented at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, these awards are the gold standard of recognition in the industry, acknowledging excellence in gaming worldwide.

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians earned the distinguished award for “Responsible Business of the Year,” marking their fourth consecutive win in this category. For the first time, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino claimed the coveted title of “Property of the Year – North America,” standing out from hundreds of premier gaming properties nationwide. This dual triumph solidifies their legacy of excellence and social responsibility, demonstrating that success in gaming can go hand-in-hand with a commitment to community and responsible business practices.

The San Manuel Tribe’s “Responsible Business of the Year” award celebrates their unwavering dedication to outstanding business practices and their profound impact on the communities they serve. Since 2003, the Tribe has donated over $400 million to causes ranging from healthcare and education to social development and cultural preservation across Indian Country. In 2024 alone, San Manuel contributed $12.6 million to more than 200 philanthropic initiatives across the Inland Empire and beyond.

“Investing in our people and preserving our communities are foundational values at San Manuel,” said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. “We are inspired by our ancestors and motivated by our youth to operate responsibly so that future generations may thrive. We are grateful to our team and our loyal guests for this recognition, and we congratulate our fellow Global Gaming Awards honorees.”

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino’s achievement as “Property of the Year” highlights its position as North America’s premier gaming and entertainment destination. With over 14 million visitors annually, Yaamava’ stands as the second most-visited destination in California, offering an unparalleled experience with over 7,200 slot machines, 150 table games, and five high-limit rooms. Beyond the casino floor, guests indulge in world-class dining, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable performances, with more than 90 live shows a year, including top-tier entertainment that rivals any major venue.

“We are beyond thrilled to be recognized as the best casino property in North America,” said Kenji Hall, General Manager of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our incredible team. From our vibrant gaming floor to our one-of-a-kind hospitality offerings, we are committed to delivering an unmatched guest experience every day. This honor reflects the standard of excellence we strive to uphold.”

In addition to its win for “Property of the Year,” Yaamava’ earned second place for “Customer Loyalty Program of the Year” with its renowned Club Serrano, which also extends its benefits to Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, CA. Yaamava’s General Manager Kenji Hall was also honored by his peers, finishing in the top three for “American Executive of the Year.”

About the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians???

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is a federally recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. San Manuel exercises its inherent sovereign right of self-governance and provides essential services for its citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic, and cultural development. As the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains, and high deserts, the Serrano people of San Manuel have called this area home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region. For more information, visit http://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov.

About Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel 

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel is the only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star and Four-Star-rated and AAA Diamond-rated entertainment destination in the Inland Empire (IE), featuring a 17-floor hotel with spacious suites, an elevated pool deck, a Forbes Five-Star spa, and a state-of-the-art theater. Named 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Reader’s Choice for Best Casino outside of Las Vegas and the Best Casino Restaurant for The Pines Modern Steakhouse, Yaamava’ is located just 70 miles from downtown Los Angeles in Highland, CA. The Casino has more than 7,200 slots, five high-limit gaming rooms, luxury retail shops, a wide variety of award-winning dining options, and more than a dozen bars and lounges, including IE’s premiere sports bar, The 909 Food Hall. The San Manuel Entertainment Authority owns and operates Yaamava’ Resort & Casino.

For more information, visit www.yaamava.com or follow us on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, Threads and X (formally known as Twitter).

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Assembly Majority Leader Emerita Eloise Gómez Reyes concluded her 8th annual Senior Advocacy Week, held from September 23 to 27, during which her office visited over 30 senior centers and senior apartments across the 50th District, serving over 1,500 seniors by providing vital resources and services to older adults in the community. The event underscored the Assemblymember’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of the District’s aging population.

Throughout the week, Assemblymember Reyes and her team visited a wide range of locations, including The Magnolia at 9th, Bloomington Grove & Lillian Court, the Seniors VIP Club in Rancho Cucamonga, TELACU Rio Alto, Southpointe Senior Center, TELACU Tierra Serrano, TELACU Hacienda, Heritage Park Senior Apartments, and Grace Vargas Senior Center, along with several other senior living communities. Their extensive list of visits included TELACU La Paz, TELACU Sierra Vista, TELACU Monte Vista, Immaculate Conception Church, Bethel AME Church of Fontana, Dino Papavero Senior Center, John Piazza Apartments, Minerva Manor Apartments, Village at Sierra, Gardens at Sierra, Fountains at Sierra, The Plaza at Sierra, Cascade Sonrise Apartments, and Holiday Mission Commons. Additionally, they toured the National CORE Seniors Sewing Facility where seniors gather to learn sewing and create garments for themselves and for charity programs such as clothes for the homeless.

In partnership with organizations such as the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services, Wise and Healthy Aging, the California Department of Insurance, California Highway Patrol, Kings Warriors, Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, and the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, the Assemblymember’s office provided seniors with access to essential information and services, ranging from healthcare and housing resources to fraud prevention and safety tips.

“Senior Advocacy Week is one of the most meaningful weeks of the year for me and my team,” said Assemblymember Eloise Reyes. “It’s a chance for us to connect directly with the senior citizens in our community, ensuring they have access to the resources and services they need to live with dignity, independence, and security. Our seniors have contributed so much to our communities, and we must make sure they are supported.”

Throughout the week, seniors had presentations on Medicare and insurance services and received information on avoiding scams and fraud targeting older adults. Representatives from the California Highway Patrol provided driving safety information for seniors, while Wise and Healthy Aging facilitated workshops on wellness and healthcare.

Assemblymember Reyes also made it a point to listen to the concerns and needs of seniors across the District, discussing how the State Legislature can further assist older adults and advocate for their needs.

“We’re committed to ensuring that no senior in our district is left behind,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “The feedback we’ve received this week will continue to guide our legislative priorities as we work to create a brighter, safer future for our seniors.”

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Assemblymember Reyes for taking the time to visit us and for bringing such valuable resources,” said Robert McCall from Fontana. “Her dedication to ensuring that we have access to the support we need has made a real difference in our lives. Her visits remind us that we are not forgotten, and we truly appreciate her care and commitment to improving the quality of life for seniors in our community.”

“Thank you, Assemblymember Reyes, on everyone’s behalf,” said Francesca Silva from TELACU La Paz, “thank you so much for remembering us seniors, we really needed this and you deserve our gratitude.”

For more information on resources available to seniors or to learn more about future events, please contact Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes’ office at (909) 381-4100 or visit a50.asmdc.org