California Assembly Passes Reparations Resolution; Paves Way for Compensation Discussions
Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
enforced and permitted the institution of chattel slavery,” according to the language of the resolution.
The measure was unanimously approved with a 57-0 vote on the Assembly floor.
“ACR 135 is not only a resolution to affirm the (California Reparations Task Force) report,” Weber. Said during her presentation on the Assembly floor. “It is also meant to educate ourselves on California’s history. Ida B. Wells wrote, ‘The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.’ The reparations task force turned the light on truth, and this is laid out in ACR 135.”
The nine-member reparations task force submitted a comprehensive 1,075-page report to the Legislature on June 28, 2023. The report contains the panel’s findings from a two-year study that involved investigations of harms, testimonies from community members, and up to 115 recommendations for
compensation for eligible Black Californians.
On Jan. 31, the CLBC announced the introduction of the 2024 Reparations Priority Bill Package, which includes 14 pieces of legislation that represents the first step in a multi-year effort to implement the legislative recommendations in the report.
ACR 15 was among the list of considerations.
Regarding the passage of significant legislation related to reparations for Black Californians, Weber is following in her mother’s footsteps.
Her mother, California Secretary of State Shirley Weber, authored AB 3121, the California Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans, as an Assemblymember representing the 79th District. This legislation was the first-in-the-nation bill created at the state level to study and recommend redress for past injustices against the descendants of African people enslaved in the United States.
During the announcement of the rollout of the bills on Feb. 21, CLBC Chair, Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), said the package was part of “30 reparations bills” the Black lawmakers are developing. A bill requesting a formal apology from the Governor and the Legislature for California’s historical injustices against African Americans is next in line, Wilson said.
The passage of ACR 135 will officially open discussions about
reparations, Wilson said.
“This year’s legislative package tackles a wide range of issues from criminal justice reforms to property rights to education, civil rights, and food justice,” Wilson stated. “The Caucus is looking to make strides in the second half of this legislative session as we build towards righting the wrongs of California’s past in future sessions.”
Before the vote, members from the CLBC spoke about the significance of the report, educating their colleagues about the issues that affected the Black community after slavery, and the task ahead to get the reparations bills to the Governor’s desk.
The members of the CLBC that spoke on the floor were Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D- Ladera Heights), Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda), Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena), Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside), Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D- Los Angeles), Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood), and Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento).
Other members of the Assembly body shared their
sentiments about ACR 135 as well.
Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland), the first Native American elected to the California Legislature, expressed his support for the bill.
“The consequences of those 246 years of slavery and a 100 of segregation still plague African Americans today, and indeed plagues all Americans today,” said Ramos. “It is a history of trauma that still needs to come to light to make sure we can overcome and start the healing process – not only in our nation but here also in the state of California. During those times of slavery, bondage and oppression, many African Americans fled that type of treatment to find solitude with Native American tribes.”
Assemblymember Bill Essayli (R-Corona) condemned the state’s dark past.
“I rise in commendation of racial discrimination and the despicable indefensible treatment of Black Californians in our state’s early years,” Essayli said. “But I also rise as a proud Californian and believe that despite the bleak history of our early days our state has often been at the forefront of the fight for racial equality.”
‘We’re Not White – Our Identities Have Been Erased’
BymSunita SohrabjiMisidentification of MENA people causes harm to the community, denying access to critical health resources, college scholarships and financial aid.
Somali children play together.
(Ismail Dirrir photo via Unsplash)
More than 3.5 million people with roots from 23 countries in the Middle East and North Africa are currently misidentified
AB 2673, introduced in the California state Legislature this week by Assemblymember Bill Essayli, will add the MENA classification to all state intake forms. Essayli, who is
American, also authored
30 in 2023, in an attempt to collect MENA data at
Approximately 740,000 people from the Middle East and North African countries reside
‘We’re Not White – Our Identities Have Been Erased’...continued
in California, which has the largest MENA population in the nation. “Current demographic data collection in California is entirely inadequate in capturing the unique experiences that MENA communities face, from health issues to socioeconomic outcomes,” said Essayli, as he introduced the bill Feb. 26.
No Check Box
“AB 2763 will ensure that state agencies and legislators will have the necessary data to make informed decisions about policy priorities and resource allocation,” he said.
Black and Brown people hailing from MENA countries currently must check “White” on official forms, as there is no other designation for them. The resulting lack in data about the community leads to a lack of funding for critical health and community resources, and an inability to access many financial aid and scholarship programs for college, among other issues. Critically, there is no health data for the community. And many young people suffer from mental health issues because of the inability
to correctly identify themselves, say MENA community activists.
Students ‘Erased’
Students’ identities are “immediately erased” as soon as they’re enroll in the school district. They are classified as White, Rachel Evans, youth programs manager at San Diegobased Somali Family Services, told Ethnic Media Services. She noted that — of the more than 5 million children enrolled in schools throughout California — not one is identified as Middle Eastern or North African.
“It’s very challenging when the budgets are determined. There’s no data about their quantity, where they are, where they’re located, and what their needs are,” said Evans. Moreover, a lack of identity often induces multi-generational trauma, leading to depression and selfharming behaviors, she said.
“I was born in san Diego. My father came as an immigrant from Somalia. My mother came as a refugee. I’m as American as they come. I bleed red, white, and
Movement of Love & Reconciliation & Movement of Good
By David DewWhat we see happening with people here in America and throughout the civilized world is a call out for people to feel something other than what they are feeling in their lives. Many people are in pain, searching for release, only finding it through substances which do not last and only deadens the pain for a while. However, the heart and soul can never be healed from external forces, it can only be healed through unconditional love, which can only be found in the heart itself.
Human beings need to evolve to a level of ongoing kindness toward each other, with the heartfelt understanding that we are all connected and that we are all a part of the human family and this is a universal truth.
Having this knowledge when human beings are suffering anywhere, all of us should care and be willing to reach out with kindness and unconditional love.
We have arrived at this station on the planet where it is time to commit to something that has the power to free us all. The time is now for us to collectively commit to giving kindness and a Movement of Love a chance, and we will begin to see changes in ourselves, our children, our communities and the world we live in. The Movements have evolved respectively from many years of prayer, from a man who thus far has spent forty one years wrongfully incarcerated in prison and blessed by Pope Francis himself. The Movement of Good asks that each person become willing to reach out to one another with kindness and you will see the power of love and God in this small yet profound act. Moreover, the Movement
of Love and Reconciliation is about embracing our diversity and celebrating with those brothers and sisters who look, talk and think differently than we do with the truth of knowing, this is another human being with the same feelings I have, and from the same human family.
Finally, there is no escaping our evolution as humans, and unless or until we do, change will remain buried in the hearts and souls of mankind. But I ask all adults who have children, stop right now where you are and look at your children, then reflect on the kind of life you have had, and what is happening around you right now, and ask yourself, do you owe your child or children a better life or world than you came into? And, if the answer is yes, then commit right now and join with us, and together we can change the world.
In his name I pray, Dewswah
Note: This is the voice of David Dew, he has written the theme songs for The Movement of Love & The Movement of Good and is reaching out to producers and recording artists to reproduce his songs.
Please take the time to write to David.
California Men's Colony PO Box 8101
Attn: David Dew C67417, Cell 5118
San Luis Obispo, CA. 934098101
Thursday, March 7, 2024
In Richmond, Tony Thurmond Hosts Oral Exploration of City’s Rich Black History
Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
California State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SSPI) hosted an oral history presentation for Black History Month at DeAnza High School in the Contra Costa County city of Richmond.
In front of a diverse group of public officials, guests and students from five other campuses within the West Contra Costa Unified School District -- attending in person and by ZOOM -- panelists shared their experiences of Black life in the city 16 miles northeast of San Francisco.
“I am a believer that the best history is living history and today you have an opportunity to hear from many who have made history in this community,” Thurmond told the students. “They are incredible leaders who have watched this city and how it has grown, evolved, and changed. They share this with you from a first-person narrative.”
An educator, social worker, and public-school parent, Superintendent Thurmond served on the Richmond City Council, the West Contra Costa Unified School Board, and in the California State Assembly representing District 15 before he was elected SSPI in 2018.
At the Black History Month event, Thurmond introduced several community elders who have made significant whose contributions have impacted to the city of Richmond.
Those special guests included Nathaniel “Nat” Bates, eight-time Richmond City Council member;
Audrey Miles, former West Contra Costa Unified School District Board President, the first Black woman elected to that role; and Myrtle Braxton, former Chair of the Richmond Parks and Recreation Commission and former member of the National Parks and Recreation Commission.
John Marquez, Contra Costa College board member and former Richmond City Council member for 18 years; and Ahmad Anderson – son of former Richmond Mayor Irma Anderson and member of the Cal Berkeley Football Hall of Fame –were also panelists who spoke during the 90-minute discussion that ended with a question-andanswer segment. A short brief video tribute was paid to Irma Anderson was shown during the presentation.
The elder Anderson was the first Black woman elected as City Council member and Mayor of Richmond. At the time of her election, she was the first Black woman to be elected to a large city in California major California city. Mrs. Anderson passed away on Jan. 24 at the age of 93.
“Mayor Anderson and I were neighbors. We lived three doors away from each other,” Braxton said. “Ahmad, her son, and my children grew up together. I knew Mayor Anderson personally and I knew how community-oriented she was in the city of Richmond and our neighborhood. I was so proud of her because she would listen to you and do whatever she
COMMENTARY: Black History Month and the Importance of Telling Our History
and librarians are living in fear of triggering the next battle of the ongoing culture war as they simply try to do their job.
Special to the NNPA
By U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn
Black History Month is a time to celebrate the giants that came before us and reflect on the shoulders upon which we stand.
I am reminded of Lewis Latimer, the son of former slaves, whose invention of the filament allowed Thomas Edison’s lightbulb to function properly. I am reminded of Septima Poinsette Clark, a South Carolinian who Martin Luther King called the mother of
the civil rights movement, whose workshops inspired icons like Rosa Parks. And I’m reminded of Robert Smalls, who I sincerely believe is the most consequential South Carolinian who ever lived. While enslaved, he absconded a Confederate boat, freed his family and friends, campaigned for Blacks to be allowed to
could to help you.” Incorporated on Aug. 7, 1905, and instituted as a charter city on March 24, 1909, the city of Richmond had a population of 115,677 residents in 2021, according to the City of Richmond Community Development Department. The Black or African American community makes up 19.1% of the city’s population. The largest ethnic population in Richmond is Hispanic or Latinos at 44.6%, followed by Whites at 20.1% and Asians at 14.4%.
Between 1940 and 1945, tens of thousands of workers from all over the country moved to Richmond to support shipyard industries during World War II. Nat Bates told the students he was part of that “great migration westward” as many African Americans from the Deep South states were seeking opportunities.
Many Black Southerners ended up in the Bay Area cities of Oakland, Marin City, San Francisco, Berkeley, San Pablo, Pinole, and Vallejo. Bates's final destination was Richmond.
“I arrived in California right after the bombing of Pearl Harbor (Dec. 7, 1945) as many of us from the south did,” Bates said. “And we came to California primarily for the job opportunities. It was the shipyards, and we were preparing the fight for the military. There was a shortage of personnel in the
city of Richmond to build ships because most of the young men were inducted into the military.”
As Richmond’s population expanded after World War II, members of the Black community began to get involved with city politics, open businesses such as the Hilltop Mall, and create housing, Bates said.
“The Hilltop shopping center was an undertaking because it created a lot of jobs and created a significant (amount) of revenue,” Bates added.
The City of Richmond has had 21 Black elected officials between 1961 and 2023. The panel encouraged the students to learn more about Black history, and the background of Richmond, and get involved in government at the city, county, state, and federal levels. Bates said he has had a relationship with 11 U.S. presidents – Republicans and Democrats – during his time in Richmond politics, which started in 1967. The City of Richmond has had 21 Black elected officials between 1961 and 2023.
“It’s not a racial thing. There are a lot of people willing to help you and assist you,” Bates told the students. “So, open your hearts, open the doors, and some of you may well be a U.S. Senator, a governor, a professor, or maybe the President of the United States.”
COMMENTARY: Black History Month and the Importance of Telling Our History...continued fight for the Union army, and later became a member of the South Carolina legislature and Congress.
As a former history teacher and student of history, I’m deeply concerned by the dark efforts at work to silence these stories. The NAACP Legal Defense Fund estimates that more than 1,600 books have been banned across the country, with 566 books having been banned in Florida alone. Teachers and librarians are living in fear of triggering the next battle of the ongoing culture war as they simply try to do their job.
These efforts are directly connected with widespread attempts to take control of local school boards. In 2022, several new board members — who had the support of right-wing activist group “Moms for Liberty” — were sworn into the Berkeley County School District in South Carolina. Within two hours, the board had fired the district’s first Black superintendent, removed the district’s lawyer, banned “critical race theory,” whatever that is, and put the framework in place to ban various books from schools.
Other school districts in South Carolina followed suit — Clarendon, Charleston, Colleton, and Sumter — and have come under fire within
Riverside County Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel
Successfully Hosts Annual Homeless Symposium
Temescal Valley, CA – Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel proudly hosted the Annual Homeless Symposium on February 29, 2024, at the Terramor Terrace Club in Temescal Valley. The event, a cornerstone for collaborative discussions on homelessness solutions within the Second District, was facilitated by Heidi Marshall, the esteemed Director of Housing & Workforce Solutions.
The symposium brought together a diverse group of experts and stakeholders from various departments, including Riverside University Health Systems - Behavioral Health, Adult Protective Services, Housing & Workforce Solutions, and Riverside County Regional Parks & Open Space District. Their contributions were instrumental in fostering a comprehensive dialogue on the multifaceted issue of homelessness.
Deputy Director of Housing & Workforce Solutions, Tanya Torno, provided a pivotal presentation, sharing crucial data and insights on the county's current homelessness challenges and initiatives. The event also featured voices from the cities of Corona, Norco, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Lake Elsinore, and Canyon Lake, further emphasizing the symposium's inclusive and collaborative approach.
The roundtable discussion, a highlight of the event, saw engaging contributions from Behavioral Health's Dr. Matthew Chang, Regional Park & Open Space District's Christian
the last year. They are all led by Black superintendents. These are coordinated actions not intended to support the education of our children, but to further a political agenda sponsored by “Moms of Liberty” and various other ultraright wing MAGA groups.
The dangers of continuing down this path are too great to ignore. I often quote philosopher George Santayana who once said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Based on the recent events unfolding across my home state which gave birth to Brown v. Board of Education, it’s clear we are already headed in that terrifying direction.
It is a common myth that the origins of the Christian right can be traced back to the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade. As the story goes, religious conservatives were so deeply disturbed by the possibility of the legalization of a woman’s right to choose that they mobilized, eventually garnering the attention of President Richard Nixon. President Nixon then used the issue as a cornerstone of his 1972 presidential campaign.
However, it was the issue of school desegregation in the 1950s and ‘60s that unified the bloc. The 1954 Brown v.
Sanchez, Adult Services' Barry Dewing, and Housing & Workforce Solutions' Greg Rodriguez. This discussion allowed for a deep dive into the various aspects of homelessness, from mental health to housing solutions, showcasing the district's holistic approach to addressing this critical issue.
The symposium concluded with an insightful recap and closing remarks from Michael Walsh of Housing & Workforce Solutions, encapsulating the day's discussions, and setting a forward-looking tone for continued action and collaboration.
"Our Annual Homeless Symposium has once again highlighted the critical importance of coming together as a community to address one of the most pressing issues of our time," says Supervisor Spiegel. "I am deeply grateful for the invaluable contributions from our dedicated departments, as well as the active participation of the cities of our district. Their insights and collaborative spirit are instrumental in paving the way toward sustainable solutions for homelessness. We are creating a roadmap for change and hope in our district."
The Second District's Annual Homeless Symposium stands as a testament to the community's commitment to finding innovative and sustainable solutions to homelessness. Through collaborative efforts and shared knowledge, the district continues to make strides toward creating a future where every individual has access to safe and stable housing.
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DLCC Unveils Ambitious “Multi-Cycle” Strategy for Long-Term Democratic Dominance
NNPA NEWSWIRE — The DLCC underscored its commitment to combating Republican gerrymandering by supporting efforts for representative maps that accurately reflect the diversity of districts and states. The committee also expanded its focus to include races that impact the balance of power in state legislatures, such as state supreme court seats, lieutenant governorships, and ballot initiatives.
The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) on Monday, Feb. 26, revealed an expansive strategy memo, charting a multifaceted plan to venture into historically Republican strongholds and solidify Democratic power over the next decade. Departing from the typical focus on immediate elections, Democrats are now adopting a forward-thinking approach to counter the historical trend of losing gains in subsequent cycles.
Distinguishing itself as the sole party committee investing in multi-cycle victories, the DLCC said it aims to tackle this challenge head-on. Officials said the strategy is to secure immediate electoral triumphs and establish a lasting infrastructure that will fortify Democratic influence for years to come. Investments made in 2024 will lay the foundation to claim the majority in state legislatures throughout the decade, officials declared.
The DLCC stressed the urgency of countering the Republicans’ successful long-term game, citing underhanded tactics, gerrymandering, and substantial financial investments that have consistently allowed them to dominate state legislatures. To thwart these efforts, the DLCC advocates for significant resources, investments, and a clear strategy for sustained power.
The DLCC also asserted its capability to secure immediate electoral gains while strategically building Democratic power over multiple election cycles. Officials pointed to recent elections reflecting this approach’s success, with state Democrats now controlling 41 of the 99 state legislative chambers, marking a significant shift in political power.
As the DLCC gears up for the 2024 cycle with its largest-ever $60 million budget, officials outlined a bold, evidence-based plan to achieve majority control in 50 chambers by 2030. The multifaceted strategy includes:
Breaking Republican supermajorities.
Expanding into traditionally Republican territory.
Setting the stage for new Democratic trifectas.
Combating gerrymandering.
Tracking other races that influence power balances.
Taking advantage of special elections.
Specifically, the DLCC’s multi-cycle strategy targets states like Kansas, North Carolina, and
Wisconsin to break or prevent Republican supermajorities. The committee has already invested in Wisconsin and North Carolina as part of its battleground initiatives. Additionally, the DLCC aims to gradually chip away at Republican trifectas in states like Georgia, which is identified as a prime location for political change in 2024.
The DLCC stressed the importance of holding key seats in states that don’t align gubernatorial and legislative elections in the same year. This strategic move allows Democrats to establish governing trifectas over multiple cycles. With half of its Senate seats up for election in 2024, Pennsylvania serves as a crucial target for the DLCC, aiming to secure a trifecta in 2026 alongside a competitive gubernatorial race.
Moreover, the DLCC underscored its commitment to combating Republican gerrymandering by supporting efforts for representative maps that accurately reflect the diversity of districts and states. The committee also expanded its focus to include races that impact the balance of power in state legislatures, such as state supreme court seats, lieutenant governorships, and ballot initiatives.
The DLCC highlighted the significance of its multi-cycle strategy, emphasizing that it goes beyond single election cycles. Special elections, offering critical opportunities to expand Democratic power incrementally, were highlighted as a key aspect of the strategy.
“With new redistricting maps decided by 2030 elections and in order to fundamentally transform the balance of power in states, we need a long-term strategy to break into territory that Republicans have long dominated,” DLCC President Heather Williams said in an email. “That’s exactly what this plan does. The DLCC is the only party committee tasked with working cycle over cycle to build Democratic power in state legislatures. Our 2024 target map includes states like Kansas, North Carolina, Georgia, and Wisconsin – states where we must build infrastructure and position Democrats to gradually chip away at Republican power. 2024 is the year of the states, and what happens this year will shape the arc of Democratic power in the states for the decade. Today, Republicans have been put on notice that the DLCC has the plan to win not only the year, but also the decade and decades to come.”
Governor Newsom Statement on Amicus Brief Filed with the United States Supreme Court on Homeless Encampments
SACRAMENTO – Governor
Gavin Newsom today filed an amicus brief in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, a case that is before the United States Supreme Court.
Prior rulings by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
Governor Newsom Statement on Amicus Brief Filed with the United States Supreme Court on Homeless Encampments...continued
long lawsuits, blocking even the most common-sense efforts to clear encampments that pose health and safety concerns, without direction on what they can and cannot do to make spaces occupied by unhoused people safer for those within and near them.
“Encampments are dangerous – period. California is investing billions to build housing and provide the services needed to get people out of tents and into safer situations. However, our best efforts are being blocked because of sweeping injunctions that delay progress and fail to provide any consistent guidance for local authorities to abide by.
“The United States Supreme Court can establish a balance that allows enforcement of reasonable limits on camping in public spaces, while still respecting the dignity of those living on our streets. By setting out a clear rule, the Court can empower state and local governments to enact and enforce compassionate policies that will help save lives, strengthen their communities, and ultimately work to stem the
tide of this homelessness crisis.”
Governor Gavin Newsom
The Governor has consistently called for clarity from the courts and previously filed a separate amicus brief requesting the United States Supreme Court to hear this case.
Since taking office, Governor Newsom has worked to address the root causes of homelessness.
Working with the Legislature, the Governor has increased state spending to address homelessness from $500 million to an unprecedented $15.3 billion. He has also allocated $750 million specifically for local jurisdictions to assist unhoused individuals living in encampments.
Additionally, the Administration launched two nation leading programs, Roomkey and Homekey, which collectively helped to house 71,000 individuals. The Governor also signed into law the CARE Act, a new statewide framework for individuals with the most severe mental health and substance use disorders to provide them with housing, treatment and other vital services.
‘We’re Not White – Our Identities Have Been Erased’...continued from page 1
blue,” Mustafa Sahid, director of operations at Somali Family Services, told EMS.
‘Who Am I?’
“But I still have that confusion of: ‘What am I considered?’ It’s something I’m still figuring out,” he said.
Amin Nash, policy and research coordinator at the Arab American Civic Council, told EMS he was 11 years old when the 9/11 terrorist attacks happened, killing an estimated 2,977 people, and injuring thousands of others. “I was the only Iraqi American in my school and the only Muslim. So you can only imagine how weird it was and how strange it was for me to grow up in the school system. Everybody’s conversations were about the Iraq war. And here I am, an actual Iraqi in America, and I didn’t have a way to identify myself.”
“Honestly, the thought that
came into my head when I was a kid, and I still have that thought now, is they just don’t want me to exist. It feels very purposeful that they don’t include us. And in many ways, it is a form of discrimination. It is not giving us equal protections under many different laws,” said Nash.
Federal Bill
At the federal level, The National Network of Arab American Communities, a coalition of 30 organizations, is spearheading the Health Equity and MENA Inclusion Act, which prioritizes health and data equity, and voting rights. The bill is sponsored by Reps. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Robin Kelly (D-IL) and Anna Eshoo (D-CA).
“We really want to make sure that the MENA community’s voice is being recognized and heard, and that we are being advocated for,” said Sahid.
DOJ Inspector General Exposes Critical Failures in Federal Prisons Leading to Inmate Deaths
By Stacy M. Brown | National Newspaper Publishers Association
The report concluded that chronic understaffing contributed to multiple failures in the BOP. (Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA)
A scathing report released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz unveiled a disturbing pattern of operational and managerial deficiencies within the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), shedding light on the alarming rate of inmate deaths. The report, covering the years FY 2014 through FY 2021, scrutinizes 344 deaths in BOP institutions and points to a multitude of issues, notably suicides, homicides, accidents, and a concerning number resulting from unknown factors.
Brightline West Announces Updates To Field Investigation Work In Southern California And Nevada
LAS VEGAS (March 4, 2024)
– Brightline West announces updates to field investigation work in Southern California and Nevada within the proposed rail corridor within Interstate 15 right-of-way. Field work began in January to advance final stages of design in preparation for a groundbreaking. Brightline West will connect Las Vegas and Southern California with America’s first true high-speed rail system.
Field investigation work includes geotechnical borings and samplings, utility potholing and land surveying. Work will take place primarily during daytime hours, with some work at night to minimize disruption to traffic. In some instances, short term closures of freeway shoulders will be required. All work will be done in compliance with applicable environmental regulations and in coordination with Caltrans and the Nevada Department of Transportation.
Updated project areas are listed below. Motorists should proceed with extra caution through work zones and adhere to posted detour signs, speed limits and other signage.
California
I-15 from Baker Blvd OC to north of Minneola Road
Daytime borings in the center median and exterior shoulders from Monday, March 4 to Friday, March 8, 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
I-15 from Bear Valley Road to Oak Hill Road
Daytime borings in the center median and exterior shoulders from Monday, March 4 to Friday, March 8, 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
I-15 from Cleghorn Road to Arrow Route
Daytime borings north and south of Arrow Route on shoulders of the flood control basin, center median and shoulder borings at the I-15/I-215 at Sierra Blvd and in Devore, from Monday, March 4 to Friday, March 8, 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Night closures are planned on the I-15 Foothill southbound onramp for shoulder borings, from Sunday, March 3 to Thursday, March 7, 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
Night closures are planned on the I-15 northbound lane #1 near Foothill Blvd IC for center median borings, on Friday, March 8, 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
Nevada
I-15 median north of Jean, Nevada (milepost 13-21)
Continuous geotechnical boring work through Thursday, March 14, 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
I-15 median north of Primm, Nevada (milepost 1-13)
Continuous geotechnical boring work through Friday, March 7, 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Note: Dates and times are subject to change. These operations are weather dependent.
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have left few and fragmented options for local governments to confront the homelessness crisis. As a result, California’s elected officials have found themselves embroiled in years-
Suicide Epidemic: BOP’s
Alarming Shortcomings Revealed Suicides emerged as the predominant cause of death, constituting over half of the 344 cases investigated. The DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) identified recurring policy
violations and operational failures contributing to inmate suicides. Among the highlighted deficiencies were lapses in staff completion of inmate assessments, inappropriate Mental Health Care Level assignments, and the heightened risk associated with single-celled inmates. The report uncovered a lack of coordination among staff departments, hindering the provision of necessary treatment and follow-up for distressed inmates. Furthermore, a glaring oversight revealed that the BOP failed to provide evidence of completing the required mock suicide drills essential for staff readiness. The report found that, despite a significant drop in the overall inmate population, plummeting from 214,149 in 2014 to 144,448 in 2021, the number of
7 Ways To Reverse Clogged (Hardened) Arteries
Your good health has an enemy — atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is common. And its effects can be very serious. This condition can lead to strokes, heart attacks, and death. But, you can take steps to protect yourself from this disease.
What is atherosclerosis?
The inside walls of healthy arteries are smooth and clean. This makes it easy to transport the blood your body needs. But arteries can become clogged. Fatty substances like cholesterol can stick to artery walls. These deposits are called plaque. Plaque can eventually slow or block the flow of blood. This blockage is atherosclerosis. It can affect any artery in your body. When atherosclerosis affects the arteries that supply blood to the heart, it is called coronary artery disease. Two things may occur when a plaque develops. A plaque may break off or a blood clot may form on the plaque’s surface. If either of these situations occur, it may lead to a blockage of an artery and ultimately a heart attack or stroke.
How is cholesterol measured?
The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends that all adults older than 20 have their cholesterol level checked every five years. This is done with a blood test. The test should measure total cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and triglycerides. Talk with your
healthcare provider about your target cholesterol levels.
Am I at risk?
If you are older than 20 and have been eating a typical Western diet, chances are atherosclerosis has already begun. Risk factors include:
About These Studies – High cholesterol – High triglycerides – Smoking – High blood pressure – Insulin resistance, Prediabetes, or Diabetes – Being overweight or obese – Sedentary lifestyle – Sleep apnea – Stress – Excessive consumption of alcohol
Inflammation is the underlying cause of atherosclerosis and many other serious diseases. The following tips can help prevent atherosclerosis and improve your general health. If you have atherosclerosis, you may be able to stop it from getting worse.
1. Check Your Teeth
In a new study published in the British Medical Journal, researchers found that people with poor oral hygiene had a 70 percent increased likelihood of developing heart disease compared to those who brushed regularly.
Because gum disease can cause atherosclerosis, it is vital to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Flossing breaks up bacteria colonies in
EDD benefit payments now issued on new Money Network prepaid debit cards
April 15 is the last day Bank of America debit cards can be used
Starting February 15, 2024,
“Through our partnership with Money Network, we are enhancing how we deliver benefits to our customers,” said EDD Director Nancy Farias. “That includes introducing a direct deposit option later this year – the fastest, most secure method for receiving payments.”
Receiving Money Network Cards
the gums that can get into the bloodstream and cause infection and inflammation in other parts of your body.
Most importantly, be sure to have regular dental checkups and get your teeth cleaned every six months to remove plaque buildup. If this is not removed, you are very likely to get periodontal disease, which contributes to heart disease.
2. Fish oil
Try taking 2000mg of fish oil daily. EPA and DHA, fish oil’s primary omega-3 fatty acids, reduce inflammation, lower blood lipids (especially triglycerides), improve blood viscosity, and normalize heart rhythms. Taking these supplements can reduce cardiovascular mortality by as much as 45 percent. Reduce the suggested amount if you eat fish three times per week. Metagenics, a great fish oil, can be found in the Myers Detox Store. Cod liver oil also has some great benefits.
3. Go for Garlic
Besides making the obvious changes to your diet like opting for whole grains, less saturated fats, etc., garlic is rich in antioxidants and increases nitric oxide production. In a study of 15 men with coronary heart disease, researchers found that 2.4 grams of aged garlic extract reduced endothelial dysfunction by 44 percent. It’s best to eat either raw garlic or aged (fermented) garlic, but you can also take Kyolic aged garlic extract.
4. Smoking
If you smoke, stop. Scientists have shown smoking damages the artery walls, which can lead to atherosclerosis. This makes it easier for plaque to build up. Smoking is even riskier when you have other risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes. If you need help quitting, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she has information on medicines, nicotine replacement
EDD
products, and programs to make it easier. Also, avoid places where there is cigarette smoke. Research suggests that smoke from others can increase your risk of atherosclerosis.
5. Exercise Exercise regularly. Regular aerobic exercise can help fight atherosclerosis by reducing the amount of fat in your blood, lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol, and controlling your weight.
It’s never too late to start exercising. Brisk walking, swimming, and bicycling are good choices. It’s OK to start slowly and work up to at least 30 to 40 minutes, 4 to 5 days a week. But before you begin, ask your healthcare provider’s advice about what kind of exercise program is right for you.
6. Checkups
Get regular checkups. Have your healthcare provider check your blood pressure and cholesterol. High blood pressure can further complicate atherosclerosis by causing artery walls to harden and thicken. This condition is called arteriosclerosis. Talk about your health and your risk factors for atherosclerosis with your provider.
7. Know Your Diabetes Do’s/ Don’ts
Control diabetes with your healthcare provider’s help. People who have diabetes develop atherosclerosis more quickly. If you have diabetes, control your blood sugar level carefully.
Will I know if I have it?
Because symptoms appear only after the damage has been done, don’t wait for symptoms to develop before doing something about atherosclerosis. Begin by making the above lifestyle changes even if you feel well.
benefit payments now issued on new Money Network prepaid debit cards...continued
Individuals with active claims who qualified to receive benefit payments after January 15 were mailed an unfunded Money Network Card in preparation for the transition. It may take up to 14 business days from the date of qualification for the new card to arrive. Individuals who don’t receive their card after that period may contact Money Network at 1-800-684-7051.
Additional information about the Money Network Card is available at moneynetwork. com/edd in 21 of California’s top spoken languages. This includes instructions on how to activate the card, how to avoid fees and locate surcharge-free ATMs in local areas, FAQs, and translations of important “Terms and Fees” in all supported languages.
Customers can choose their preferred language by selecting the globe icon at the top of the webpage as shown:
Closing Bank of America Cards
IMPORTANT DEADLINE:
April 15, 2024, is the last day individuals will be able to use their Bank of America debit card in this transition. Customers are encouraged to use or transfer any remaining balance on their debit cards before that date, or submit a request to Bank of America to be issued a check in the amount
The drug-industry reform that would lower costs to patients
By Merrill MatthewsAmericans are already unhappy with the cost of prescription drugs. They may get a whole lot unhappier when they learn how some companies game the system at patients' expense.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) just released an investigation into the prescription drug industry. It shows just how much some Medicare insurance plans and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are ripping off patients, leaving little doubt that it's time for Congress to step in.
Nearly 50 million Medicare recipients are enrolled in Part D, a program in which private insurance companies provide beneficiaries with drug coverage. For some drugs, Part D plans may require patients to pay out of their own pockets a coinsurance fee -- a percentage of the cost of a medication. Most seniors believe their coinsurance is based on what the insurance company pays for drugs. It turns out that's often not the case.
In fact, the GAO report found that as a group, Part D patients paid four times more than insurers for many drugs.
Insurance companies set coinsurance fees based on different "tiers" and a medication's "list price"-- i.e., the full, published cost of a drug. But insurers may pay much less because PBM middlemen negotiate discounts and rebates from the drug manufacturers in exchange for favorable placement on formularies, which are the insurers' lists of preferred medicines. Consider a drug with a $400 monthly list price. After discounts and rebates, the insurer may pay just $50 for a one-month supply. Yet the insurer calculates the patient's out-of-pocket share as a portion of the $400 list price, not the $50 the company actually pays. If the coinsurance were 20%, the patient would pay $80 at the pharmacy rather than $10 (i.e., 20% of $50).
Thus, the patient would pay the insurer $30 more than the insurer paid for the drug after discounts
and rebates. And that's over and above the Part D insurance premiums, which are supposed to cover the insurer's cost.
The GAO report says that in 2021, Medicare enrollees spent $21 billion on 79 of the 100 drugs receiving the most rebates. But after rebates and discounts, the health plans paid only $5.3 billion for those same medications.
It's unclear how much of this profit the insurance company may kick back to the PBM, because the industry is purposely opaque. The murkiness is made worse by the fact that three major health insurers -- Aetna, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare -- or their parent companies own the three biggest PBMs -- CVS Caremark, Express Scripts, and OptumRx, respectively. Together, they control nearly 80% of the U.S. market for prescription drugs.
The current practices place the greatest financial burden on the Medicare recipients with the most medical needs, and may make the difference between whether or not a cash-strapped patient adheres to a regimen of lifesaving medication.
Since a rebate is a portion of the list price, there is an economic incentive for PBMs to design formularies that favor the more expensive medicines.
These practices probably won't be fixed without legislation that realigns the economic incentives. One proposal, the Patients Before Middlemen Act, would mandate that PBMs receive flat, transparent service fees rather than compensation based on the cost of drugs.
It's time to reform a system that costs patients, taxpayers, and the entire American health care system far more than it should. More transparency has a way of lowering costs for patients -- and the country. Merrill Matthews is a resident scholar with the Institute for Policy Innovation in Dallas, Texas. Follow him on Twitter @MerrillMatthews. This piece initially appeared in Issues & Insights.
DOJ Inspector General Exposes Critical Failures in Federal Prisons Leading to Inmate Deaths...continued from page 3 suicides within the BOP system surged.
of remaining funds. Visit Debit Card for more information.
Help us fight against fraud
The EDD will never request personal information by text message, email, or on social media. Text messages asking to activate a benefits debit card by selecting a link are scams. The EDD’s text messages only link to websites that include “edd.ca.gov”. The Department encourages customers to remain vigilant and safeguard their financial and personal information. Visit Help Fight Fraud for tips on how to avoid scams.
Upcoming service updates
Later this year, the EDD is set to implement a new direct deposit option for benefit payments. Details about this option will be provided in upcoming communications. This service improvement is part of EDDNext, a multi-year transformation effort to improve the EDD customer experience –updating technologies and selfservice choices, streamlining forms and notices, and enhancing staff efficiency through updated policies and procedures. The goal is to make the EDD experience for customers a smoother and faster one.
The report also spotlighted BOP-run facilities’ failure to conduct mandatory “mock suicide drills.” Investigators said 67 out of the 194 BOP facilities were unable to provide evidence of running a single mock suicide drill between 2018 and 2020, violating the required three drills per year, one for each shift.
Insufficient Emergency Response: BOP Staff’s Failures
Exposed
The OIG’s findings underscored significant shortcomings in the BOP’s response to medical emergencies, with almost half of the inmate deaths reviewed reflecting inadequate reactions. From a lack of urgency and unclear radio communications to issues with naloxone administration in opioid overdose cases, the report paints a picture of systemic failures compromising the safety and wellbeing of inmates.
Information Void Hinders
Prevention: BOP’s Limited
Understanding of Inmate Deaths
A critical revelation emerged regarding the lack of available information about inmate deaths, hampering the BOP’s ability to prevent future fatalities. The report exposed the BOP’s inability to produce required documents following an inmate’s death, limiting their understanding of circumstances leading to deaths and impeding the identification of preventative measures. The OIG also highlighted the absence of indepth Action Reviews for inmate homicides or fatalities resulting from accidents and unknown factors, further limiting the BOP’s capacity to learn from these tragic incidents.
Operational Challenges: A
Recipe for Disaster Long-standing operational
challenges such as contraband interdiction, staffing shortages, outdated security systems, and staff non-compliance with policies were identified as contributing factors in nearly one-third of inmate deaths.
The report singled out 70 inmates who died from drug overdoses, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to mitigate these risks.
Recommendations for Reform: BOP’s Pledge for Change
The OIG proposed 12 recommendations to address the root causes of inmate deaths. In a rare show of unity, the BOP has pledged to implement all the recommendations, signaling a commitment to rectify these systemic issues, and upholding its duty to ensure inmates’ safe and humane management.
The report concluded that chronic understaffing contributed to multiple failures in the BOP.
“The report is an urgent call to action. No family should ever have to receive a call that a loved one has died while incarcerated simply because a facility was understaffed, under-resourced or out of compliance with BOP policy,” Inimai Chettiar, Deputy Director for the Justice Action Network, said in an emailed statement.
“There is strong bipartisan support for comprehensive oversight of our nation’s prisons, and it is long past time for congress to enact the kind of transparency and accountability that will prevent deaths like these in the future. We are encouraged by Senator [Dick] Durbin’s prompt commitment to hold a hearing in the wake of the report’s release. Families of the deceased, and those whose sons, daughters, brothers, and sisters are being detained in federal facilities right now deserve immediate attention.”
Thursday, March 7, 2024 WORLD/POLITICAL
Arena Stage Honors US Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson With The American Voice Award
WASHINGTON, March 5,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater presented the American Voice Award to Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson on Thursday, February 22, 2024, as part of the Opening Night celebration for the world premiere of Kia Corthron's Tempestuous Elements.
Arena Stage Executive Producer Edgar Dobie, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, and Arena Stage Artistic Director Hana S. Sharif. Photo by Cameron Whitman Photography.
Established in 2005, the American Voice Award honors public officials recognized for their extraordinary support of and advocacy for American arts and arts education. Justice Jackson has repeatedly demonstrated her dedication to fighting for human and civil rights and her deep commitment to equal justice. She is both the first Black woman and the first former federal public defender to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. Justice Jackson also has a unique connection to theater, having participated in student productions and an improv group throughout her career at Harvard. She was sworn in as the 116th Supreme Court Justice on June 30, 2022. Justice Jackson earned both her Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor from Harvard University, graduating with the latter cum laude in 1996.
The award was presented by Arena Stage Artistic Director Hana S. Sharif at the preperformance dinner. "It is a distinct privilege to present this award to Justice Jackson on the opening night of Tempestuous Elements, a play that reflects on the life and legacy of another arts advocate, educational luminary Anna Julia Cooper," said Sharif in her remarks. "Justice Jackson stands in the magnificent tradition of Anna Julia Cooper as
a trailblazing leader, undaunted by inequity and galvanized by her work in service of liberation and Justice for all people. This is emblematic of the spirit of the American Voice Award. I am honored to stand in the company of all of you this evening to present Justice Jackson with this award."
American Voice Award recipients previously honored by Arena Stage include Representative Judy Chu (DCA), Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), the late Representative John Lewis (D-GA), and Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), among others.
Corthron's Tempestuous Elements follows Anna Julia Cooper's fights for her students' right to an advanced curriculum. When her tenure as principal of D.C.'s historic M Street School is sabotaged by her colleagues and neighbors, Cooper's professional and personal relationships become fodder for innuendo and social ostracization. This inspiring new Power Play commission takes audiences on the journey of this formidable Black feminist's fight for educational equity, freedom, and legitimacy at the turn of the 20th century. Directed by Psalmayene 24, and featuring an ensemble cast led by Gina Daniels as Cooper, the world-premiere production runs through March 17, 2024, on Arena Stage's iconic in-the-round Fichandler Stage.
The Tempestuous Elements Opening Night celebration included a reception in the Bank of America Lower Lobby, a seated dinner in the Molly Smith Study, the performance in the Fichandler Stage, and a post-show reception in the Grand Lobby. In addition to the award presentation, the dinner featured remarks from Corthron, Arena
continued on page 7
COMMENTARY: Black History Month
and the Importance of Telling Our History... continued from page 2
Board of Education decision sent shockwaves throughout the country, particularly in the South where Jim Crow flourished, and segregation was the dominating way of life. In response to Brown, white residents established racially segregated private schools to avoid complying with the ruling. Notably, most of these schools were religiously affiliated.
Black families joined together in the successful 1971 Green v. Connally class action suit to prevent the institutions from being granted tax-exempt status and to ensure no one could receive tax deductions for contributing to such schools.
Tensions were further inflamed in 1975 when the IRS revoked the tax-exempt status of Bob Jones University, a racially segregated evangelical Christian institution.
Today, this same Christian right has rebranded and united with MAGA Republicans to remove Black history books from our schools, strip women of their right to choose, and end the miracle of IVF.
Each of these efforts are intertwined with the generations of discrimination that the African American community has experienced. Yes, the civil rights movement of the 50’s and 60’s was a complex struggle for justice and equality for the Black community. But I reflect on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s prescient words in his famed “I Have a Dream” speech, that “[Our white brothers] have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone.”
As the son of a fundamentalist minister and Chairman of the Democratic Faith Working Group in Congress, I lean heavily on my faith in challenging times. Matthew 25:40 teaches us that “whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.” It may be easy to turn a blind eye when the injustices do not impact you. But the scripture assures that we will “reap what [we] sow.”
Our stories — Black stories — should and must be told.
su condado.
AVISO-LAS ORDENES DE RESTRICCION SE ENCUENTRAN EN LA PAGINA 2: Las ordenes de restriccion estan en vigencia en cuanto a ambos conyuges o miembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la peticion, se emita un fallo o la corte de otras ordenes. Cualquier agencia del orden publico que haya recibido o vista una copia de estas ordenes puede
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Creative Corps Inland SoCal Arts Project. The “Dancing with the Leaders of the Inland Empire” multi-media production will be touring this Summer 2024 with three shows in three locations! Victorville 6/8/24, San Bernardino 6/15/24, and Riverside 6/22/24. More information is coming soon.
Arena Stage Honors US Supreme Court Justice
Ketanji Brown Jackson With The American Voice Award...continued from page 6
Stage Board Chair Catherine Guttman-McCabe, and AARP
Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director of Internal Engagement Gerri MadridDavis.
To view photos of the evening, please visit here.
Arena Stage thanks Tiffeny Sanchez and Reg Brown for their generous sponsorship of Tempestuous Elements and their tremendous support of Black storytelling in DC.
Tempestuous Elements is also made possible through generous funding from AARP with additional support from Susan and Steve Bralove, Dr. Donald Wallace Jones, Dr. Betty Jean Tolbert Jones, and Tracey Tolbert Jones, PNC, and The Drs. Elliot and Lily Gardner Feldman Endowment for New Plays at Arena Stage.
This project is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.
In addition to Tempestuous Elements production sponsors, the Opening Night Celebration
is supported by GEICO. The first racially integrated theater in our nation's capital and a pioneer of the regional theater movement, Arena Stage was founded on August 16, 1950, in Washington, D.C., by Zelda Fichandler, Tom Fichandler, and Edward Mangum. Today— nearly 75 years later—Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater is a national center dedicated to American voices and artists. We produce plays of all that is passionate, profound, deep, and dangerous in the American spirit, and present diverse and groundbreaking work from some of the best artists around the country. Consistently contributing to the American theatrical lexicon by commissioning and developing new plays, Arena Stage impacts the lives of over 10,000 students annually through its work in community engagement and serves a diverse annual audience of more than 300,000. arenastage.org
Chevrolet and National Newspaper Association Offer Summer Internship: Discover the Unexpected Fellowship
By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
Don't miss out on the chance to elevate your content and amplify your voice – apply before the April 1, 2024 deadline!
In a bid to amplify Black voices and highlight diverse stories, Chevrolet, in collaboration with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), invites budding journalists, content creators, and communications enthusiasts to embark on the summer internship of a lifetime through the Discover the Unexpected (DTU) Fellowship.
The DTU Fellowship is geared towards students of historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who are
Chevrolet and National Newspaper Association Offer Summer Internship: Discover the Unexpected Fellowship... continued perspectives of HBCU students and aims to provide a platform for these voices to be heard.
What sets the DTU Fellowship apart is the hands-on guidance and mentorship provided by industry professionals who understand the power of diverse perspectives. Fellows can elevate content and gain career-building knowledge through interactions with seasoned journalists and media experts.
The importance of diverse storytelling has never been more evident, and Chevrolet, in partnership with the NNPA, is committed to empowering the next generation of storytellers. By offering this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the DTU Fellowship seeks to make a lasting impact on both the individuals selected and the media landscape.
As the application deadline approaches, interested individuals are encouraged to take advantage
of this extraordinary opportunity. The application window for the DTU Fellowship closes on April 1, 2024. The tight deadline emphasizes the urgency and exclusivity of the opportunity, urging potential applicants to act promptly.
The Discover the Unexpected Fellowship by Chevrolet and the National Newspaper Association represents a unique chance for HBCU students to receive financial support for their education and gain invaluable hands-on experience in collaboration with influential Black-owned newspapers. By taking part in this transformative journey, aspiring journalists have the opportunity to leave a lasting impact on the media industry. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your content and amplify your voice – apply before the April 1, 2024 deadline!
BHERC 14th Annual Youth Diversity
Film Festival To Take Place Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Los Angeles
Youth filmmakers tackle the issues of the world creatively, reaching across languages, states, and oceans to create cultural bonds, share their stories and renew their hopes for a brighter future through film. From nearly 2,000 middle and high school students from the U.S. and across the globe
Entertainment News
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., March 4, 2024 (SEND2PRESS
NEWSWIRE) -- The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) is proud to present the 14th Annual Youth Diversity Film Festival (YDFF) Saturday, March 23rd (in-person) at Regal L.A. Live, 1000 West Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015. Films can also be viewed (virtually) online at BHERC.TV through Sunday, March 24, 2024.
BHERC has a core mission to recognize and support youth's unique talents and voices by providing and promoting this visual platform. Traditionally brought to the community annually as a live event - the YDFF continues in hybrid format, both online streaming and live in-person. It will include 24-hour access to the films and in-person, feature prime industry panels led by top entertainment professionals. Opening Ceremony that introduces the filmmakers with short trailers of their movies, is always a highlight of the event.
The BHERC YDFF is one of the longest-running youth film festivals to focus on diversity. YDFF filmmakers share short narratives, animation, and docu-short films from various topics related to what youth are experiencing today.
passionate about storytelling and eager to contribute to the media landscape. This opportunity offers a platform for aspiring journalists and provides financial support in the form of a $10,000 scholarship and an $8,000 stipend.
One of the key aspects of the DTU Fellowship is the chance to collaborate with some of the largest and most influential Black-owned newspapers in the community. The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between emerging talents and established media outlets, fostering an environment of mentorship and shared knowledge. The selected DTU fellows will embark on a transformative journey beyond conventional internships. This experience promises exploration, learning, and, most importantly, amplifying their voices. The fellowship recognizes the unique
Director of the YDFF, Robert McCune states, "Storytelling is unique in that it is not bound by age. And that is what we see in the films offered by the Youth Diversity Film Festival, storytelling in its purist form because it is rooted in the belief of young people. These are the storytellers that will write the next generation of this world's history. And each film is a new page in that history."
YDFF goes beyond the definition of a festival by providing guidance and lifechanging experiences that go beyond filmmaking throughout the year.
With nearly 2,000 submissions from more than 8 different countries this year, the YDFF continues to grow.
Sandra Evers-Manly, President of the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center stated, "We are excited with the continued growth of the festival and the students focus dealing with diverse issues."
A vital component of the festival is the panels
“This Means War!”
By Lou K. Coleman
“Whatever is going wrong, put your war clothes on. You might be in a daze but tell the devil he can't have your praise. No matter the attack, you won't turn back. This means War! He can't have your family, he can't have your increase, he can't have your breakthrough, because you plead the blood of Jesus. You can't take this lying down. Whenever the enemy's attacking in your life, you can’t be breaking down and falling out, you gotta say, This means War!” [Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago].
Understand we are fighting a spiritual war that underlies all of man’s wars. This battle is for the salvation of souls, for our eternal destiny. This battle is real, so put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. So, gear up, [sword, shield, and armor] and prepare for battle. This means War!
featuring professionals in the entertainment industry. These panels provide real-time real-life career information, experience, and learning. Set to provide mentorship and inside, by some of the best professionals in the television and film industries. This year's festival will provide two different panels, with the topics to be announce in the coming week.
Founded in 1996 by Sandra Evers-Manly, BHERC is a nonprofit, public benefit organization designed to advocate, educate, research, develop, and preserve the history and future of Black images in film and television. BHERC programs include film festivals, mentoring, book signings, script readings, film and animation contests, scholarships, and other programs and special events.
BHERC invites young people from the US and across the globe, industry professionals, and the community to join us for this great festival of incredible films from our youth.
"This festival is presented annually to continue the BHERC mission to provide an outlet and opportunity for young filmmakers around the globe to share their stories about issues, challenges, and successes to a broad audience," states BHERC YDFF Director Robert McCune. This is a powerful opportunity for everyone. Take the time to log in and learn, be inspired, moved, gain insight from the filmmakers and the films, as well as the industry-led panels.
REGISTRATION:
Register online for the inperson event and virtual event at bherc.org.
Admission: Festival Pass $10/ Adults, $5/Youth & Seniors.
Please Note: films screen online at bherc.tv.
MORE INFORMATION:
For information about the BHERC YDFF festival, please contact Robert McCune, Director, BHERC Youth Diversity Film Festival at email: YDFF@bherc.org or by phone: (925) 727-6231. For information on all the festival offers additional details about BHERC and all its programs, visit our website at bherc.org.
of the earth. He is without a doubt on the warpath and ready to destroy people’s livelihood. This is serious stuff. This is not for the faint hearted or the weak-kneed. This means War! And it’s time to start acting like it! Satan is not pulling any stops. He will come at you from every direction. He got his eyes set on you. Your enemy is prepared to overtake you. According to the War in Revelation [Chapter 13 and Chapter 19], Satan will use every spiritual tool he has ever devised, especially deception and force, to get you and me to surrender our faith in Jesus. The Hell with Satan. Gear up and prepare for battle. This means war!
Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, take the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit [Ephesians 6:14-17] and know that God has given you power to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” [Luke 10:19]. He has given you everything you need to experience victory. The only question is: will you use what he has given you, or will you walk into battle unprepared and exposed to the enemy’s attacks?
You see, Satan knows that this is his last chance to win in his battle against God, and he’s going to “pull out all the stops.” He’s going to marshal every evil human power on earth, and this grand armada will devote its vast power to achieve one purpose: the total elimination of God’s people from the face
I pray that as a result of today’s message you will be encouraged to prepare for spiritual battle every day. And I pray that you will take advantage of these tools God has given you to fight the enemy and win the victory. Gear Up!
“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death”. [Revelation 12:11]
The San Bernardino AMERICAN News
Submission Deadline: Mondays By 5 pm
WITNESS FOR JUSTICE Issue #1192
Spiritual Joy in Times of Crisis
Sarah Lund
What is spiritual joy in times of crisis? How can we find joy in our hearts when we live in a world filled with sorrows? In the shadows of the cross, where is our glad hosanna?
An ancient instrument with mystical powers, the drum connects us to our spiritual core. As part of my sabbatical last summer in search of spiritual joy, I attended a community concert featuring a wall of percussion instruments performed by a musician as a sound bath experience. At the end of the night, the artist invited us to keep whatever insights we gained and to let go of anything that felt disruptive to our spirits.
I held onto one insight from that night. I prayed for God to show me spiritual joy in my body. As a survivor of trauma, I prayed for spiritual joy to transform my body/mind. As I listened to the drumbeat, bathed in sound, I reconnected with my heart’s spiritual core, feeling the vibrations of the beating of the drum throughout my whole body.
My heart began to pray.
When words fail to express the depth of our despair, we pray with the sound of our beating heart. The heart communicates beyond the boundaries of time, location, nationality, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, gender, politics, class, age, sexuality, disability,
and language. The sound of the drums awoke an ancient truth within me: we are one. The bullied transgender youth’s heart. The woman crossing the border’s heart. The praying refugee’s heart. My heart. God’s heart. The heart of Christ. The heart of Sophia. We are one. Beloved, you are loved beyond your wildest imagination. Your life matters. Your life, simply by being you, brings God joy. Your life as your authentic self brings God joy. What a gift it is to be alive and have a heart that beats to the rhythm of joy. How good and lovely it is to be part of beloved community, a sacred gathering of people throughout time and space.
Crisis, sorrow, and trauma do not have the right to steal our spiritual joy that is our birthright. We claim liberation, transformation, and freedom for all God’s oppressed children in the name of the spiritually joyful Jesus. Nothing can separate us from the love of God’s sacred heart that beats within all of Creation.
“Our Knights Take Flight”
Social Lite Knights learn about San Bernardino Valley Colleges Aeronautics Program
Our 2024 Social Lite Knights were all ears as they heard from 2 distinguished professors who would introduce them to a profession they never considered.
Carl Brazelton shared that he, like many of our Knights, had dreams but he was told by his teacher to “choose a different profession because being a “black pilot” was not something he should consider”. Despite those discouraging words Carl found encouragement of his dreams from his father-in-law. He started off attending Bowling Green State University in Ohio with his BA in Education and continued his education at San Bernardino Valley College with a degree in Business. Through that time, he became a pilot for a commercial airline for 20+ years, the former Airforce Base Commander for
the Space & Missile Systems Center in Los Angeles, Flight Operations Manager at LAX and the Education Liaison Officer for recruiting future pilots. Currently he is an Aeronautics Professor at SBVC.
Larry Rice, also a Professor and alumni of SBVC earned his A.S. in Business and Aeronautics and moved on to attend Cal State University San Bernardino where he earned a BA and MS in Business. He worked 33 years as a pilot and in management for a private supply company. He is now the Safety Officer of the Redlands Airport Association and was the 2021 recipient of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award which is awarded for flight operations for 50 years or more.
LOCAL WELLNESS EVENT
The Knights learned about the dynamics of the cockpit and the importance of how wind velocity plays in flying a plane. They were introduced to an affordable, high impact program that is lacking the attention of young adults with potentially high income salaries. After the lecture, they were able to test their skills on the Redbird flight simulators in the classroom practicing their take-off and landings as they flew over the Inland Empire.
On a later date when our Southern California weather permitted, our Knights took flight in a 180 horsepower Piper Archer airplane over the beautiful cities of Redlands and Yucaipa.
What a day for our young Knights and their families experienced watching the possibilities unfold before their eyes. After landing, Knight Soloman Moore stated, “That was crazy, everything about it was just… crazy, I wanted to take the controls!”. Knight Darvion McGee stated after his first flight ever, “I think I need to stay on the ground for a little bit.” Overall it was a great success
thanks to our very own S.B.V.C., professors and the pilot “Tony” who confirmed their knowledge of the lessons they received in the classroom. This truly is a hidden jewel and it's right here in our backyards.
The Social Lites, Inc. a nonprofit organization is a vehicle for senior African American young men to gain skills and exposure to succeed as they enter into college such as learning public speaking skills, volunteerism and confidence as well as raise money for college. To date we have awarded over $3.5 million dollars in scholarships and prizes to our Knights over the 57 years of existence. Our Beautillion theme “Your Moment of Greatness” is quickly approaching as we are planning an exciting night to honor and award thousands of dollars in scholarships to our 7 Knights for 2024 on March 30th at 5:30 p.m. at Cal State San Bernardino. Tickets can be obtained by contacting Marlene Davis at (909) 709-5502 or find us on Eventbrite at ”Social Lites, Inc. of the Inland Empire” for more information.
OP-ED: A Silent Killer No More
By Hamil R. Harris, NNPA Contributing Writer
OP-ED: A Silent Killer No More...continued
In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose son Dexter recently passed from prostate cancer, I ask: How long?
How long will Men of color suffer in silence and die alone?
How long will too many brothers hide their plight?
When he finally commented publicly about his condition, Austin offered regrets about keeping silent and then made an important pledge. He said that by not initially disclosing his diagnosis, he “missed an opportunity to send a message on an important public health issue,” while noting the prevalence of prostate cancer, particularly among Black men. Encouraging all men to get screened, Austin promised, “You can count on me to set a better example on this issue today and for the rest of my life.”
Any cancer diagnosis is a private matter. But men like Dexter King and Austin can help so many others who are prone to prostate cancer. Keeping the surgery and treatment a secret would only have continued to add to the stigma surrounding prostate cancer. That would have been a disservice to the thousands of men of color diagnosed annually.
Indeed, data from Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City shows that more than 13 percent of African American men between the ages 45 and 79 will develop prostate cancer in their lifetimes. And Black men have a 70 percent higher rate of developing prostate cancer than White men. The American Cancer Society also shockingly predicts that Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer than their White counterparts.
These figures are appalling when considering that prostate cancer is one of the most treatable forms of the disease with the five-year survival rate for men diagnosed with it being greater than 99 percent if the cancer is detected during the early stage.
While there are numerous reasons for why this disparity between Black and white men exists – decades of structural racism, environmental issues, certain comorbidities, different molecular pathways in the body of Black men – a great deal of the reason comes down to the fact that Black men are disproportionately not being
screened for prostate cancer as early or as regularly as White men.
A recent study published in JAMA Oncology by a team at the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center found that Black men get fewer PSA (prostate specific antigen) screenings; they are more likely to be diagnosed with later stage cancer; they are less likely to have health insurance; and they have less access to high-quality care and other disparities that can be linked to a lower overall socioeconomic status.
Given his platform as Secretary of Defense, I am happy that Austin recognized his duty to be open and honest about his battle with this disease. And in doing so, he now joins groups and individuals who are already working on spreading awareness for prostate screenings who can act as guideposts.
For example, Mount Sinai Medical Center recently unveiled the Robert F. Smith Mobile Prostate Cancer Screening Unit, which will visit New York City neighborhoods where men could be at a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. The mobile home sized bus is named after the African American philanthropist and venture capitalist who donated almost $4 million to launch the program. Smith, who has led many philanthropic endeavors aimed at supporting the AfricanAmerican community, obviously realizes that it takes a preemptive approach to combat the scourge of prostate cancer by going directly into the communities most affected by the disease. In announcing the prostate screening initiative, Smith tied it to larger inequities in our society that leave African Americans behind. “It’s unconscionable that in our great country and at this moment of technological breakthrough, Black Americans are still subject to staggeringly worse health outcomes,” he said. “We can fix this.”
Thankfully there are individuals like Smith and now Austin to use their platforms to spread awareness for this deadly – yet very treatable – form of cancer and ensure that more people don’t die needlessly.
Hamil R. Harris is an award-winning journalist and contributing writer for the NNPA
Ben Lunde of Rancho Cucamonga
Named to Dean's List at Dickinson College
CARLISLE, Pa. (March
5, 2024) - Ben Lunde, a first year international business & management major at Dickinson College, has been named to the dean's list for the fall 2023 semester. A graduate of Rancho Cucamonga High School, he is the son of Warron and Hilda Lunde of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.
All students earning a position on the dean's list-a recognition of academic excellence-must have a grade-point average of 3.7 or
above on a 4.0 GPA scale for the semester. Dickinson College, located in historic Carlisle, Pa., was chartered in 1783. The private college is nationally recognized for its crossdisciplinary, active approach to learning, international education, civic engagement and its commitment to teaching its students about sustainability across the curriculum, the community and the globe. dickinson.edu.