SB American News Week Ending 11/9

Power concedes nothing

—Fredrick Douglass (1849)

have

out the exact amount of injustice and wrong which

The limits of tyrants are prescribed by the endurance those of whom they

Takeoff from the Platinum Selling Hip Hop Group "Migos" dead at 28

shooting deaths comes at a time when there has been an increase of violence among rappers. Two other victims were also reported to have been hurt but were taken to local hospitals privately.

Takeoff was the nephew of lead man Quavo from the Migos trio which formed in 2008 and they released multiple mixtapes and singles. In 2013 Migos released their hit single “Versace” which began the trajectory up to their huge debut album Young Rich Nation released in July of 2015. The following year was the start of their Culture trilogy album series and in 2022 the group had reportedly broken up.

California ’22 Election: Black Candidates Running for Statewide Office

The world of hip-hop is in shock over the death of another one of the worlds talented stars. Born Kirshnik Khari Ball but widely known as “Takeoff” from the platinum selling Atlanta

Quavo and Takeoff recently began a career together without their third member, offset and just released a new music video entitled “Messy” on October 31st. Condolences have been pouring in from all around the entertainment industry via social media.

Takeoff was 28 years old. May he rest in peace and condolences to his family and friends.

Education Department Releases Final Regulations to Expand and Improve Targeted Debt Relief Programs

Rules improve borrower defense, ensure borrowers get their day in court, and limit student loan interest capitalization

Community /Education News

Today (10/31/22), the U.S. Department of Education (Department) released final regulations that streamline and improve the rules for major targeted debt relief programs. The regulations expand eligibility, remove barriers to relief, and encourage automatic discharges for borrowers who are eligible for loan relief because their school closed, they have a total and permanent disability, or their loan was falsely certified. The rules also establish a fairer process for borrowers to raise a defense to repayment, while preserving borrowers’ day in court by preventing institutions of higher education (institutions) from forcing students to sign away their legal rights using mandatory arbitration agreements and class action waivers. Finally, the rules help borrowers avoid spiraling student loan balances by eliminating all instances of interest capitalization not required by statute, which occur when unpaid interest is added to a borrower’s principal balance, increasing the total amount that borrowers may have to pay.

“Today is a monumental step forward in the Biden-Harris team’s efforts to fix a broken student loan system and build one that’s simpler, fairer, and more accountable to borrowers,” U.S. Secretary of

Education Miguel Cardona said.

“These transformational changes will protect students who’ve been cheated by their colleges from the bureaucratic nightmares of the past and ensure that all our targeted debt relief programs live up to the promises made by Congress in the Higher Education Act.

We’re also protecting borrowers from higher costs by limiting the practice of tacking unpaid student loan interest onto their principal balances."

These rules will go into effect July 1, 2023, which is the effective date specified in the Higher Education Act for regulations issued on or prior to November 1 of a given year. They reflect extensive stakeholder input across the higher education community, including from multiple public hearings, three negotiated rulemaking sessions conducted last fall, and more than 5,000 public comments received this summer.

“Borrowers entitled to debt relief under the Higher Education Act should be able to get it without wading through red tape and confusing tricks and traps,” said Under Secretary James Kvaal. “The regulations announced today will streamline a needlessly complicated system and give borrowers a simpler and

more often automatic path to the discharges they deserve. They also stop shady schools from forcing students to sign their rights away as part of the price for admission and give the Department critical tools for holding colleges that take advantage of borrowers accountable.”

Borrower Defense to Repayment and Arbitration

The new rule establishes a strong framework for borrowers to raise a defense to repayment if their institution misleads or manipulates them. This includes the ability to decide claims individually or as a group, which can be formed by the Secretary or in response to a request from a state entity, such as an attorney general, or a nonprofit legal assistance organization. Claims may be based on one of five categories of actionable circumstances: substantial misrepresentation, substantial omission of fact, breach of contract, aggressive and deceptive recruitment, or judgments or final secretarial actions. It will apply to all claims pending on or received on or after July 1, 2023.

The final rule includes only the provision of full relief, a change from the proposed

rule, which allowed for partial discharges. Approved claims require a conclusion, based upon a preponderance of the evidence, that the institution committed an act or omission which caused the borrower detriment of such a nature and degree that warrant full relief.

The rule also lays out a clear process for the Department to pursue institutions for the cost of approved claims. For loans issued prior to July 1, 2023, the Department may pursue recoupment if the claims would have been approved under the borrower defense standards in place at the time the loan was issued.

For discharges of loans issued before that date, institutions will only face recoupment if those claims would have been approved under the regulatory standards in place at the time the loans were issued.

The final rule also allows borrowers to take their case to court by preventing institutions that participate in the Direct Loan program from requiring borrowers to engage in pre-dispute arbitration or sign class action waivers. The rule creates an easier path for borrowers whose loans were

There are four Black candidates running for statewide office in California. Three are contenders to win as they fight it out with their opponents in the final days of the election.

Dr. Shirley Nash Weber (D), the incumbent Secretary of State (SOS), is the front-runner in her race against Robert Bernosky (R). Weber was appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in December 2020. She is California’s first Black Secretary of State and only the fifth African American to serve as a state constitutional officer in California’s 170-year history.

Since her appointment, Weber has led successful public information campaigns resulting in more Californians going to go to the polls. She conducted a tour of state schools and local communities as part of an ongoing initiative by her office. SOS is the third highest office in California and is responsible for establishing and implementing voting rules as well as the logistics of bringing the vote to a little 20 million voters.

In Weber’s race, she has a lengthy list of supporters and endorsements including: Gov. Gavin Newsom, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, State Treasurer Fiona Ma, Controller Betty Yee, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Attorney Gen. Rob Bonta, and Chair of the California State Board of Equalization Malia Cohen. In addition, several papers like the Los Angeles Sentinel, the Los Angeles Times and the San Diego Union Tribune have also endorsed her candidacy.

Her opponent has a bit of a different opinion on the vote, as per his platform which lists “cleaning up” California’s voter

to-do list. Many claimed that illegal immigrants were scattered throughout the voting rolls of Western states, all of which has been debunked by fact checkers like PolitiFact.

Tony Thurmond, a student of the public education system and a graduate of the foster youth system, is running for a second term as Superintendent for Public Instruction (SPI). Thurmond attributes the lag in the performance of Californian students to insufficient funding, an opinion which the teachers' unions support.

“I’m honored to be supported by teachers. I’m in a race where I am supported by teachers and my opponent is supported by billionaires,” Thurmond said.

Although Thurmond is a favorite to retain his office, he has gotten some criticisms about how he handled public schools during the pandemic. Those angry about the school closures blame Thurmond and some studies show that children may have been held back academically by the shutdowns, particularly children of color.

Thurmond’s opponent, Lance Christensen, works for a California Policy Center, a right-leaning think tank. Christensen’s push for more control for parents and local communities is in line with Republican policies. SPI is a nonpartisan elected position.

Christensen has called out teachers for “indoctrinating” children and has endorsed many right-wing views. “I’m a religious person, I’m a conservative, I don’t make any bones about that,” he said. “I don’t try to excuse it. I don’t hide it.”

Thurmond says that he wants to invest more in education, at least an amount that is commensurate with California’s standing as the fifth wealthiest economy in the world. His opponent is focused on removing bad teachers and giving parents more control.

Although Thurmond is the favorite and garnered a larger share of the vote during the June primary, Christensen appeals to some parents and his right-leaning language about school choice could make Thurmond’s race more difficult in some conservative areas.

Solomon O. Smith | California Black media

Dr. Shirley Nash Weber (D), the incumbent Secretary of State (SOS)

Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond

Malia Cohen, Democratic choice for Controller, to replace Betty Yee

based rap group "Migos" was killed early Tuesday morning in Houston Texas. Authorities confirmed that around 2:30 a.m. central time on November 1st, Takeoff was shot in the head or

neck area and was pronounced dead immediately. No suspects have been taken into custody and currently there are no leads on who is responsible for the murder. His

Alpha Psi Chapter of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

SBCUSD Announces 35 Schools Earn PBIS Implementation Awards

The California PBIS Coalition honored 35 San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) sites for successfully developing systems to create welcoming, safe, and inclusive learning environments where all students can thrive.

A total of 11 SBCUSD schools earned a gold award for their implementation of the Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) systems. An additional 21 schools received a silver award, and 3 received a bronze award.

students’ social-emotional and behavioral needs.

The members of Alpha Psi Chapter of Rialto, California, have joined the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign. On October 20, 2022 Member

Joyce Woodbury Harris gave a presentation on Breast Cancer Disease. The presentation was informative and well received by all in attendance. Pamphlets, Brochures, and Breast Cancer Paraphernalia were distributed to the attendees.

Why has this become so important? We all have our own personal stories; family members, or close friends, who are very dear to us are Breast Cancer Survivors or have scummed to the disease. We must raise the public’s awareness of this devasting disease. This can promote prevention, early detection, and treatment, as well as, improve health and prevent further progression of this disease.

Joyce Woodbury Harris, of Alpha Psi Chapter in Rialto, California, took her commitment to fight Breast Cancer Disease seriously this weekend. Joyce attended the book signing event for Laura Franklin, a two-time Breast Cancer Survivor. Joyce stated that Laura’s story will provide encouragement and hope to anyone who has ever been diagnosed with Breast Cancer Disease.

The book signing was held on Saturday, October 22, 2022 at the IEHP (Inland Empire Health Plan) Research Center in San Bernardino, California. The book is titled, “I Stuff My Bra, So What”. Laura Franklin’s story raises awareness and reduces the stigma of Breast Cancer through education on symptoms and treatment for people all over the world.

PBIS is part of SBCUSD’s overall plan to create a positive school climate and culture at all District schools, where learning environments foster safety, connection, and academic success. Staff use data and evidencebased practices to help students address trauma, develop positive relationships, and learn how to navigate and engage in learning. A positive school climate and culture is a necessary step in meeting

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A positive school climate and culture is based on a strong PBIS foundation, which, at its core, is the belief and practice that all students can succeed if given the right support to foster that success. As a result, PBIS is grounded in classroom practices that are proactive, instructive, and restorative. Staff teach and model good behavior and provide positive behavior corrections when needed. Students are equipped with the social skills to respond to situations in a responsible and respectful manner. School staff also use restorative practices to develop, maintain, and repair relationships with students to ensure they stay connected.

According to Colleen Williams, Director of Student Wellness & Support Services (SWSS), an important aspect of developing a positive school climate and culture is to acknowledge positive interactions and behavior, while

The race for state controller is a bit more complicated. The previous occupant of the position, Betty Yee, a Democrat has termed out of her position. Malia Cohen is the Democratic choice to replace Yee. Cohen has dedicated her career in public service focused on making public dollars work for all Californians, her campaign says.

Her opponent Lanhee Chen (R) is a self-described “conservative in the vein of Mitt Romney.”

In the primary, Cohen placed second, behind Republican Yee, 36.9% to 26.8%. However, the electorate favors Cohen in November. 46.8% of voters are registered Democrats while just 23.9 % of voters are registered Republican. The LA Times refers

also addressing inappropriate behaviors with additional instruction and practice.

SBCUSD schools, as well as other PBIS schools across the state, are evaluated annually on how well they implement each of the three PBIS tiers using a nationally recognized evaluation method.

Tier 1 is universal interventions and support for all students, which is aimed at stopping behavior problems before they start. Tier 2 provides targeted support for small groups of students who may need additional guidance. Tier 3 provides individual support for the few students who need intensive intervention. Based on this evaluation, schools in California may earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum recognition.

Gold schools must demonstrate a structured approach to implementing Tier 1 and Tier 2, as well as meet data requirements for students in each tier as well as suspension rates. The 11 SBCUSD schools that earned a prestigious

to this as the only open race this year.

Chen has been an aggressive underdog in the race attacking Cohen on several issues. To date, Cohen has yet to directly debate Chen, who taunted her on Twitter with images of herself, alone, on the debate stage.

Angela Underwood Jacobs is vying to be the first Black woman to serve as Lt. Gov of California. She is a Republican.

Underwood’s experience includes service as deputy mayor of Lancaster where she was the first Black woman on the city council. Jacobs received 19.9% of the vote in the primaries, a distant second to incumbent Eleni

gold PBIS Implementation Award are:

Anton Elementary, Hunt Elementary, Jones Elementary, Kimbark Elementary, Lankershim Elementary, Newmark Elementary, Riley College Prep Academy, Roosevelt Elementary, and Vermont Elementary Schools and Cajon and San Andreas High School.

To earn Silver recognition, a school must be fully implementing Tier 1 systems and meet data requirements. The 21 sites that earned a silver award are: Allred Child Development Program; Ramona-Alessandro Elementary, Barton Elementary, Belvedere Elementary, Bradley Elementary, Brown Elementary, Cypress Elementary, Davidson Elementary, Emmerton Elementary, Henry Elementary, Kendall-Harmon Elementary, Monterey Elementary, Muscoy Elementary, Urbita Elementary,

continued on page 4

Kounalakis’ 52.7%. Her platform includes many of the conventional Republican issues like smaller government and less regulation, but there are also some differences. Her brother Dave Patrick Underwood, a federal security officer in Oakland, was shot and killed by a member of a farright extremist group called the Bugaloo Bois — some members of the organization reportedly participated in the January 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol. Jacobs sued Facebook for promoting and facilitating the activities of these types of groups. Jacobs’ “Make California Gold Again” motto, is emblematic of her mildly Trumpian platform.

Education Department Releases Final Regulations to Expand and Improve Targeted Debt Relief Programs...continued from page 1

falsely certified to receive a discharge

Closed School Discharges

Too many borrowers have not obtained discharges they were eligible for after their school closed and end up in default. The final rules will provide an automatic discharge one year after a college’s closure date for borrowers who were enrolled at the time of closure or left 180 days before closure and who do not accept an approved teach-out agreement or a continuation of the program at another location of the school. Those who accept but do not complete a teach-out agreement or program continuation will receive a discharge one year after their last date of attendance.

Total and Permanent Disability Discharges

The final rule provides additional pathways for borrowers who have a total and permanent disability to receive a discharge. This includes allowing borrowers who receive additional types of disability review codes from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to qualify for a discharge. This also includes borrowers who later aged into retirement benefits and are no longer classified by one of these codes. Borrowers who have an established onset date of their disability determined by SSA to be at least 5 years in the past can also establish eligibility. The final rule also expands these

categories to include borrowers whose first continuing disability review is scheduled at three years, a change from the draft rule, which required such a status to have been continued once. The rule also eliminates the three-year income monitoring requirement that too often caused borrowers to lose their discharges solely because they failed to respond to paperwork requests.

Interest Capitalization

Interest capitalization occurs when borrowers have outstanding unpaid interest added to their principal balance. After interest capitalizes, borrowers are then charged greater amounts of interest on that larger principal balance. The final rule eliminates all instances where interest capitalization is not required by statute. This means interest will no longer be added to a borrower’s principal balance the first time a borrower enters repayment, upon exiting a forbearance, and leaving any income-driven repayment plan besides Income-Based Repayment. This includes the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) and Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE) plans.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

As announced last week, the rules also provide significant benefits for borrowers who are seeking Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Further information on the permanent

improvements made to PSLF regulations can be found here.

False Certification

The final regulation streamlines the process for when a college falsely certifies a borrower’s eligibility for student loans when, in fact, the student was ineligible. This rule will provide borrowers with an easier path to a discharge. Improvements expand allowable documentation, clarify the applicable dates for a discharge and allow for the consideration of group discharges.

Building on an Unparalleled Record of Debt Relief

The final regulations build upon the work the Biden-Harris Administration has already done to improve the student loan program, make colleges more affordable, deliver tens of millions in debt relief to over one million student loan borrowers, and most recently provide debt relief to over 40 million eligible borrowers.

View a fact sheet with further information on the rules here. An unofficial copy of the regulations can be found here.

https://www2.ed.gov/policy/ highered/reg/hearulemaking/2021/ nfr-affordability-and-studentloans-final-clearance.

pdf?utm_content=&utm_ medium=email&utm_ name=&utm_

California ’22 Election: Black Candidates Running for Statewide Office...continued from page 1

Wells Fargo’s first Black American Board Foundation Member Shares His Perspective on the Post and Discusses Career Journey

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

and opportunities.

This urban upbringing stayed with me and ultimately informed my career path. An urban planner by training, I am fascinated by the obstacles and barriers each community faces when it comes to equitable access to economic opportunity and how to remove them.

I felt a need to take what I had seen and lived, and then learned in college, and put it into practice every day.

difficult societal issues.

Q-Why did you choose to join Wells Fargo?

Rolley: I want to drive positive change in local communities. I’ve been focused on that my entire career. Leading social impact at Wells Fargo is an opportunity to take my experience and vision and put it to work on a larger scale with more resources.

I honestly approached the interview process as a two-way conversation.

Otis Rolley possessed a desire to drive positive change in local communities, a craving that led him to Wells Fargo, where he would lead social impact at the banking giant.

He said he approached the interview process with Wells’ CEO Charlie Scharf as a two-way conversation.

“There is a saying, do not talk about it, be about it,” said Rolley, now the head of Philanthropy and Community Impact at the bank and president of the Wells Fargo Foundation.

Rolley also counts as the first Black American elected to his position permanently by the Wells Fargo Foundation board, overseeing about $300 million in philanthropy, employee volunteerism and giving, and the company’s strategic vision on advancing social impact.

“I felt that CEO Charlie Scharf

was being about it in a real and systemic way and that there was values alignment between myself and the company,” Rolley stated.

“The company knows it has more work to do. Changes aren’t going to happen overnight, but they can’t happen at all without dedicated human and financial resources and a commitment from the top.”

In a Q&A, Rolley said he believes change is happening and wanted to be on the journey with Wells Fargo.

Q- How did you become interested in taking on societal challenges?

Rolley: I was born and raised in Jersey City, NJ, a complex city in its own right but also close to New York City and Newark. So very early on, I had a front row seat to city life with all of its challenges

Q-What has been your career journey so far?

Rolley: I started my career with increasingly demanding roles in municipal government in Baltimore, advocating for better housing, small business and infrastructure across five administrations.

My journey eventually took me to the private sector where I joined the Rockefeller Foundation leading the North America team of the 100 Resilient Cities Initiative and then the U.S. Economic Equity and Opportunity Initiative.

My focus was public-private partnership nationwide and longterm investments for low wage workers and communities of color across the country.

I’ve also held other positions across the public and private sectors so I understand how both need to work together to tackle

There is a saying, do not talk about it, be about it.

I felt that CEO Charlie Scharf was being about it in a real and systemic way and that there was values alignment between myself and the company.

The company knows it has more work to do.

Changes aren’t going to happen overnight, but they can’t happen at all without dedicated human and financial resources and a commitment from the top.

The head of diversity, equity and inclusion, at Wells Fargo is a Senior Executive Vice President for Diverse Segments, Representation and Inclusion.

They are a member of the Operating Committee, have a real budget, real staff, real integration with lines of business and corporate giving.

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Company Opens Second Location in Southern California in Two Months

City Electric Supply opened the doors to its new branch in San Bernardino, California.

San Bernardino, CA (October 31, 2022) — Located off the historic part of Route 66 sits San Bernardino. As one of the largest counties in the United States, covering over 20,000 square miles of land, a new local store comes to town. Electrical wholesale distributor City Electric Supply (CES) is open in the city of San Bernardino, the second location the company has opened in Southern California in the past months.

“San Bernardino is the newest CES location in the Inland Empire,” said District Manager Brian Andringa. “The company has been working hard to expand in this area for two years now, and we are continuing to add locations here. I’m proud of this San Bernardino team, and I am looking forward to what they are going to accomplish.”

A resident of San Bernardino for nearly four decades, Branch Manager Mike Chanez has been working in the San Bernardino market for half of that time.

“I’ve lived in the area for 37 years,” said Mike. “I’ve been in the industry for 20 years in San Bernardino, working on all sides of sales, from commercial and residential, to industrial.”

Of this San Bernardino team, Mike isn’t the only one with experience in the industry. Altogether, the team at CES San Bernardino has over 100 years of work in different roles in the industry.

“One of my team members has 30 years of experience in sales and energy management,” said Mike. “My counter guy has 20 plus years on the utility market side, and my operations manager has experience in the warehouse. We are an extremely versatile team, and our breadth expands over a wide variety in the market.”

After searching for the perfect location, CES found what used to be a factory for making cement mixing trucks. Taking six months

Otis Rolley, now the head of Philanthropy and Community Impact at the Wells Fargo and president of the Wells Fargo Foundation.

“Announcing School Board Candidates Form Team to Win, And Local Teacher Union endorsement protocols for candidates “flawed.”

‘Mission Heritage Plaza’ Wins Top Honors at Homes Within Reach Awards

New Mixed-Use Affordable Housing Community in Downtown Riverside Named ‘Multifamily Development of the Year’ by SoCal’s Largest Affordable Housing Advocacy Organization

LOS ANGELES – Mission Heritage Plaza, a unique new mixed-use development in downtown Riverside that combines affordable housing with resources for social justice and defense of Civil Rights, is this year’s top honoree at the Homes Within Reach Awards.

The project won Multi-Family Development of the Year –given to the most outstanding overall development – at the annual ceremony at the Southern California Association of NonProfit Housing (SCANPH) conference, Southern California’s biggest regional housing conference.

a female, Alaskan Native CEO if it weren’t for the women and people of color who went before me. I’m so proud to be part of this project that commemorates those who sacrificed and fought to get us where we are today.”

R&B Supergroup Xscape To Receive 'Lady Of Soul' Honor At The Feel Good Party Of The Year: “Soul Train Awards" 2022

Taped From The Orleans Arena In Las Vegas "Soul Train Awards" 2022 Premieres Sunday, November 27 At 8PM ET/PT On BET And BETHER

Candidate and district SPED teacher Mary Ellen Abilez Grande, Francisco Ramirez, Alex Avila and Trevon Martin are gaining support as a slate among people who want to choose other than incumbents despite Teachers Union endorsements.

“The endorsements for the incumbents are flawed, states Abilez Grande! It was decided by two dozen votes from teachers representing some 3000 teachers in a vote that took place two months prior to the school board candidate filing period. Mary Ellen continues by saying, as a result none of the new candidates ever had a chance to be invited to interview, let alone be considered and once completed, the endorsement recommendations were sent to the

Democratic Central Committee, which routinely follows SBTA’s prior endorsements.

“SBTA began a blitz of letters to all the members and signage that states “teachers agree “on incumbents, which is a flawed statement given the actual number of votes that moved the process forward! Believing a shakeup is needed and long overdue, Mary Ellen, would like for the San Bernardino School Board to examine others who take ownership of certain boards by staying too long and not allowing for fresh and unbiased leadership.

Convinced that every candidate matters, Mary Ellen is asking people to research all candidates before voting Tuesday, November 8, 2022.

Mission Heritage Plaza was developed by the nonprofit Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation in partnership with the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County and combines 72 affordable homes for low income individuals, families and formerly homeless veterans with offices for the Fair Housing Council and the new Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California, a 3,500-square-foot facility for the celebration and defense of civil rights.

“We are so honored to receive this award,” said Wakeland’s President and CEO Rebecca Louie. “Civil Rights and affordable housing are inextricably entwined, and this is represented in this amazing development. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today as

“This has been a one-of-a-kind, incredibly ambitious development to be a part of,” said Wakeland’s Development Director Taylor Holland, who served as lead on Mission Heritage Plaza. “This project is so personal for so many of us involved, and especially for me, as a Black woman, it is great to see it recognized. We sincerely thank SCANPH, its Executive Director Alan Greenlee, and the rest of the committee for awarding Mission Heritage Plaza.”

Designed by Gonzalez Goodale Architects and built by Sun County Builders, Mission Heritage Plaza consists of two buildings: a fivestory mixed-use building with housing, the Civil Rights Institute, offices, and space for community use connected by a central plaza to a three-story structure with homes that have a friendly, “front porch” design. The Civil Rights Institute offers cultural and social history exhibitions; an oral history recording media center and digital archive to preserve the history of diverse Inland communities; and space for educational programs and performances. The vision for this innovative

SBCUSD Announces 35 Schools Earn PBIS Implementation Awards...continued from page 2

To apply for media credentials for the taping of “Soul Train Awards” 2022 on Sunday, November 13, click on the link: https://2022stacreds.pvitl.com/registration/media_application

NEW YORK, NY – October 28, 2022 – Today, BET announced “Kandi” Burruss-Tucker, Tameka "Tiny" Harris, Tamika Scott and LaTocha Scott of legendary, multiplatinum-selling R&B supergroup Xscape will collectively receive the ‘Lady of Soul’ honor at “Soul Train Awards” 2022, the feel good party of the year. Xscape emerged on the scene in the ‘90s with a sound of their own. With hit songs like “Just Kickin’ It,” “Understanding,” and “The Arms of the One Who Loves You,” the powerhouse group took the industry by storm with their amazing harmonies and industrydefining sounds. Hosted by actor, comedian, and writer Deon Cole, “Soul Train Awards” 2022 premieres Sunday, November 27

at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and BET Her.

“Given how important Soul Train is to all of us, we’re so thankful to be honored with the ‘Lady of Soul’ Award this year,” said the ladies of Xscape. “It’s going to be an amazing night, and we can’t wait to see you all there.”

“Xscape is one of the most notable R&B supergroups of all time. Their powerful vocal harmonies laid the foundation for ‘90s R&B and some of today’s chart-topping hits,” said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy.

“Their sound is undeniably unique and masterful. We look forward to honoring these multi-talented artists collectively on R&B’s biggest stage, Soul Train Awards.”

There are internal diverse affinity groups and strategic efforts underway with employees and policies, as well as external work. I believe change is happening and wanted to be on the journey with Wells Fargo.

Q-What is your vision for advancing Wells Fargo’s commitments to the Black community?

Rolley: I believe everything moves at the speed of trust. We have to learn from our past, not get lost in it. And if we fail again, we have to fail fast, learn fast and fix fast.

We also have an opportunity to better communicate, collaborate, and coordinate across the bank’s efforts to advance a more inclusive economy, and specifically to create more economic success for Black communities.

To do this, we have to be intentional with our resources, track and amplify impact with data. I’m encouraged by programs like Wells Fargo’s Open for Business Fund, a roughly $420 million small business recovery effort.

Eighty-five percent of small businesses served by Open for Business Fund grantees are Black, African American, Hispanic or other underserved entrepreneurs.

Our new $60 million effort called WORTH (Wealth Opportunities Restored Through Home Ownership) has a goal of 40,000 new homeowners of color by 2025.

This year, Wells Fargo launched Growing Diverse Housing

Developers, a program aimed at providing capital to Black developers who are increasing housing supply.

New efforts like the Special Purpose Credit Program to underwrite refinance costs for Black customers and a $2 billion Inclusive Communities and Climate bond are underway. Ensuring these efforts reach deep into the community excites me.

There’s opportunity for real progress if we can track meaningful outcomes in peoples’ lives.

Q- Do you see racial equity as a standalone strategy or integrated into your work?

Rolley: I’ve worn glasses since the third grade. With lenses, you can take them on and off. I believe racial equity and advancing historically marginalized groups can’t be a lens, a criteria on a checklist. Racial equity should be centered in the work we do, and I intend to bring even more of that thinking as I lead at Wells Fargo.

There’s no question that we need to advance greater equity in this country.

There’s no question that policies and systems in place limit economic mobility for Black Americans, and other communities.

We need to not only remove barriers holding people back but bring intentionality and innovation to housing, small business, financial health and building a more inclusive economy. The more of us in roles to effect that type of change, the better.

and Warm Springs Elementary Schools; Chavez Middle, Rodriguez PREP Academy, and Serrano Middle Schools; and Indian Springs High, Pacific High, and San Gorgonio High Schools.

To earn Bronze recognition, a school must begin a systematic approach to Tier 1 implementation. The three schools that earned a bronze PBIS Implementation Award are:

Arrowhead Elementary School, Lincoln Elementary School, and Arroyo Valley High School.

“Developing positive climate and culture at all SBCUSD schools is essential to creating welcoming, safe and inclusive learning environments where all students thrive academically and social-emotionally,” said Assistant Superintendent of Student Services

Dr. Sandra Rodriguez. “Robust positive climate and culture programs are just one item in our toolkit that leads to academic success and a bright future for our students.”

In order to provide continued support for positive changes in school climate and culture and to recognize successful SBCUSD schools, the District provided PBIS Implementation Award-winning schools with cash incentives ranging from $500 to $2,000 to purchase student incentives. Students earn the incentives for meeting behavioral expectations. Additionally, staff from the District’s SWSS department are assigned to support school implementation of positive climate and culture systems districtwide.

Contamination

‘Mission Heritage Plaza’ Wins Top Honors at Homes Within Reach Awards...continued

project originated with the Fair Housing Council’s Executive Director Rose Mayes, a longtime advocate for Civil Rights in the Inland Empire.

“When I come up with ideas, I have to send them to individuals ask them, ‘Do you think this is possible?’ Most of the time when they say no, I say yes,” said Mayes about her years-long effort to create Mission Heritage Plaza. “It’s not that I have so much magic in me. I just believe if you dream long enough, strong enough and hard enough, it will happen.”

Wakeland assembled financing for the $47.2 million development from a unique mix of sources including state tax credits, a direct allocation from the state budget, the Veterans Housing and Homelessness Prevention program, the Strategic Growth Coalition’s Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities program, and loans from the City

of Riverside and Bank of America.

Mission Heritage Plaza was also built with longevity in mind. With an expected 55-year life span, it has the potential to provide affordable homes to thousands of people in Riverside over the years as residents achieve higher levels of economic mobility and move out, making room for other neighbors in need.

“Prevention is key to combating long term chronic homelessness and with these 72 units we’ll be able to provide real housing solutions for those experiencing homelessness or living on the brink of it,” said Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson. “The way a community treats its most vulnerable is a direct reflection of our values as City. And please know this: Riverside values all those who would call this City home. This new project is a brick and mortar testament to that.”

Wells Fargo’s first Black American Board Foundation Member Shares His Perspective on the Post and Discusses Career Journey...continued from page 3

Candidate and district SPED teacher Mary Ellen Abilez Grande

“Let’s Make a Deal!”

By: Lou Coleman-Yeboah

is the way that leads to life, and only a few find it. – Door #1. [Matthew 7:13-14].

I tell you, of all the decisions that God puts before us, there is none more significant, none more important than choosing the right door.

Save California’s Children with a Yes on Prop 31

By, Carol McGruder

Choose a Door. Door number 1 or Door number 2?

Door #1. Follow the Lord and He will be your provider, your shield, your reward, and your victory. He will give you everything you need to serve Him. He will not only allow you to serve Him, but because of your faith He will walk with you. He will restore your meaning and purpose and He will be your salvation in the midst of wickedness.

Door #2. Don’t believe God. Think He’s hiding something good from you. Believe you can get away with evil. Have faith in the idea, that God is lying about the destructive nature of sin. Let sin rule over you and instead of being priests to the nations you will fill the world with stubbornness, brutality, murder, hatred, division, and eventually every thought in your imagination will be evil.

Now Christ offer some advice.

“Enter by the narrow gate - For wide is the gate and broad is the path that leads to destruction, and many enter through it – Door #2. But small is the gate and narrow

There are only two pathways— one leading to destruction, and the other leading to life. One is readily found; the other must be searched for. One is popular; the other is unpopular. One is easy; the other is difficult. Choose wisely, for your eternal destiny depends on this choice. “Enter!” “Do it now!” Time is running out. The gate will not always be open. The choice is between the way of life and the way of destruction. Let’s make a deal!

Christ beckons one and all with the first word of the text, “Enter!” May you not be found among the majority – enter through the narrow way. As Moses said long ago: [Deuteronomy 30:19-20] I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing, and the curse. So, choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants, by loving the Lord your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding fast to Him; for this is your life and the length of your days.

WITNESS FOR JUSTICE #1123

One More Story about the Midterms

Jessica Quinn

Whether you are an experienced voter who has already checked your voter registration and polling location or have recently turned 18 and don’t know where to start.

Whether you already voted early in this election or are thinking, I’ll just sit this one out, because you don’t feel excited about the candidates. Whether you are out canvassing in your community or have faced difficulty voting in the past and are experiencing very understandable anxiety around heading to the polls. Whatever your situation, your voice is needed and valued.

And there are important ways for you to continue to be engaged in this midterm election.

Historically, about forty percent of eligible voters turn up to vote in midterms. And with young voters in particular (ages 18–25), that turnout rate is even lower, fluctuating around twenty percent. These numbers can be hard to understand when you come to think about how much is at stake. Our basic rights, our identities, our futures are quite literally on the line. Depending on the outcomes in November, some of the major issues being discussed this election season will have a lasting and farreaching impact on our lives.

Safe and affordable access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, equal rights and protections for members of the LGBTQ+ community, full and accurate historical education, concrete actions towards fighting climate change, and the movement toward a livable wage are just a few of the headlines being debated between candidates. Not to mention the future of our democracy. A lot, I know.

It is important to note that emphasizing the significance of getting out the vote does not take away from the challenges that many face in having our vote and

voice heard. In just the past few years, we have seen a wave of attempts to suppress the vote at the state level, and the election in November will be the first time we see how many of these new laws play out.

We may face new barriers getting to the polls this year, but we won’t let this stop us from exercising our sacred right to vote. The UCC and many partnering organizations are here for you with the tools you need to head to the voting booth with confidence and to urge others to do the same.

Check out the UCC’s Our Faith

Our Vote Campaign for resources leading up to the election, and make sure you save the Election Protection hotline number in your phone (the number varies for the different languages, 866-687-8683 for English) should any problems arise on voting day.

If you have already cast your ballot, encourage others by sharing why you felt it important to do so. No matter your age, reach out to eligible voters you know who may fit into that younger voting bloc and pledge to help them cast their vote! Early voting has started in many states: find out where you can vote early and help alleviate stress at the polls on election day.

In moments such as this, where we feel our rights threatened, it can be easy to feel powerless. The message I want to leave you with is that voting is one way to claim our power. The result of historically low turnout is a small, non-representative group of Americans making important decisions on policy issues that do not reflect our views, but that have broad and lasting impact. We have the power to interrupt this story. The power is in our vote.

Jessica Quinn is the Online Communications Specialist for the United Church of Christ.

Next week, you have a chance to save lives by voting YES on Proposition 31. By voting YES, you are voting YES for life, YES for health and you are voting to protect our youth from Big Tobacco! But most importantly you will be voting YES to help end the cycle of addiction, disease and death that tobacco companies have forced on our communities for decades.

Our state lawmakers have been in a two-year battle to save our children from addiction and tobacco corporations by supporting California’s ban on the sale of menthol and flavored tobacco products. This law was passed with overwhelming legislative support and signed into law in 2020 but the tobacco industry collected signatures and put it on the ballot. They are the sole funders and supporters and their tactics of delay, delay, delay is clearly at play. Well, enough is enough! Enough of Big Tobacco’s racism for profit. Enough Black death at the hands of corporations looking to make a dollar from our suffering by pushing menthol in our communities.

Recently, the YES on Proposition 31 campaign, embarked on a two-day bus tour across six California cities to urge Californians to vote YES on Prop 31 to protect kids from candy-flavored tobacco. Public health advocates from across the state, health care providers, youth leaders and local officials in Fresno, Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Sacramento, Oakland and San Diego joined forces with a call to protect kids from Big Tobacco.

But it doesn’t stop there. We also want to protect the African American community too. It is well known that tobacco companies, in the 1960s and ’70s, targeted menthol cigarettes to African American communities. So, it’s not surprising that today, over 85 percent of African American smokers prefer menthol cigarettes, compared with 30 percent of White smokers. This unique social phenomenon was principally engineered by the tobacco industry's masterful manipulation of the growing Black, urban, segregated, consumer market in the 1960s. It is estimated that between 1980 – 2018 1.5 million African Americans began smoking menthol cigarettes and 157,000 African Americans died

prematurely because of menthol cigarettes.

By voting YES on Proposition 31 by Tuesday, November 8 via mail-in ballot or in-person, we will end the sale of flavored tobacco, including menthol and save the lives of our children.

It has been my life fight to end the deadly impact Big Tobacco has created in Black communities across California and that is why I am a proud advocate of YES on Proposition 31 and encourage you to do the same. Here are four facts you need to know about Proposition 31 when you vote in next week’s election.

What is Proposition 31?

In 2020, a law was passed by the California legislature and signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom banning the sale of most flavored tobacco products at stores and vending machines, including those that taste like candy. Prop 31 is a vote on whether or not to uphold the existing state law which also bans the sale of flavored tobacco products to anyone under 21 years old.

What would a “yes” or “no” vote mean?

A vote “YES” on Proposition 31 would uphold the ban on the sale of these addictive products. A vote “no” would overturn it.

How does Proposition 31 save our children?

By passing Prop 31, the sale of many flavored tobacco products would end. Studies have shown that nearly 80 percent of children who use tobacco started with these items. This will help protect kids from getting addicted to nicotine and prevent another addicted generation.

If the measure passes, what happens if you get caught with flavored tobacco products?

Nothing, the law bans the sale of flavored tobacco products, not the use. Individual use or possession is not illegal. Although we strongly encourage you to begin your path to a life free of nicotine addiction, you will not be criminalized for using these products. Services and programs to help our community our being ramped up throughout the state!

Tobacco addiction is one of the hardest to kick, let’s protect

Save California’s Children with a Yes on Prop 31... continued

our children from forming this dangerous habit from the start. As you prepare to vote by Tuesday, November 8, I hope that you think about your children, your neighbors, and even yourself.

Vote “YES” on Proposition 31. For more information, visit www. voteyeson31.com. Carol McGruder is co-chair of

the African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council; the Chair of Black Leaders Against Tobacco Injustice; and supporter of YES on Proposition 31.

P.S. Not registered to vote? You can still register and vote up to election day!!

Company Opens Second Location in Southern California in Two Months...continued from page 3 to do a complete renovation, Mike was involved throughout the entire process from day one.

“For the remodel, we gutted the complete interior of the building and basically revamped everything,” said Mike. “We put up racking where we wanted and got to design things in a way that would benefit us the most when we opened up, which has already shown to be a big help. Getting to sit down with my district manager and help contribute to the design was awesome.”

The team at CES San Bernardino is looking forward to a variety of projects and different types of work now that they are open, but the thing they are looking forward to most? Working together to make the branch the best it can be.

“We are open here and ready to serve the customers in San Bernardino,” said Mike.

“Everyone works really hard to do their job well, and it’s been a pleasure working with them so far.”

About City Electric Supply (CES) is a family-owned electrical wholesale distributor headquartered in Dallas, Texas. The company was founded in 1951 by Tom Mackie in the United Kingdom and expanded to the United States in 1983. Today, CES employs more than 3,000 people in over 500 branches across the U.S. CES is dedicated to providing personalized service and support for customers in the residential, commercial, and industrial marketplace. While CES is a large company, it prides itself in keeping its founding principle of empowering people to make local business decisions by providing customers tailored services for all their electric supply needs.

Come to the San Bernardino County Library Superhero Events

News

The San Bernardino County Library invites residents to join the Library Superhero Events. Be sure to bring your cameras as some favorite superheroes visit the library. Enjoy an amazing experience with a variety of funfilled crafts, games, face painting, balloon artists, and more.

These events are another opportunity to celebrate and support the Countywide Vision’s literacy campaign, Vision2Read. Visitors should bring their library cards, as every 15 items checked out during the events earns visitors an inflatable superhero themed bat and an opportunity drawing ticket for a chance to win awesome prizes. All activities are free and open to all ages.

The San Bernardino County Superhero Events will take place in the following locations:

Nov. 8 from 4 to 6 p.m., Newton T. Bass Apple Valley Library, 14901 Dale Evans Parkway, Apple Valley

• Nov. 9 from 4 to 6 p.m., Sam J. Racadio Library & Environmental Learning Center, 7863 Central Avenue in Highland

• Nov. 10 from 4 to 6 p.m.,

James S. Thalman Library, 14020 City Center Drive, Chino Hills

Nov. 15 from 4 to 7p.m., Lewis Library & Technology Center, 8437 Sierra Avenue, Fontana

Nov. 17 from 4 to 7 p.m., Hesperia Branch Library, 9650 7th Avenue, Hesperia. For more programs, events, and additional information, please visit sbclib.org or contact your local branch library.

The San Bernardino County Library System is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serves a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County library system strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs, and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.

The library plays a key role in the achievement of the Countywide Vision by contributing to educational, cultural, and historical development of our County community. For more information on the San Bernardino County library system, please visit http://www.sbclib.org/ or call (909) 387-2220

Lou Coleman-Yeboah

(L-R) Paulette Simpson-Gibson, president, Compton NAACP and Carol McGruder, co-chair of the African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council

A series of lawsuits, verdicts, and settlements, against San Bernardino County Children & Family Services raises alarms – Part 2

What is happening to foster children while under the care of San Bernardino County Children & Family Services that led to lawsuits being filed?

Gail Fry Contributor

In their lawsuit filed in federal court, William and Michelle Mueller, foster and adoptive parents, along with adoptive grandfather Michael Dobie, name the County of San Bernardino Children & Family Services and social worker Deborah Kay of failing in their duty to secure the safety of their adopted son, E.M., while he was involuntarily in the foster care system as well as his right not to be raped, sexually, and physically abused.

The Muellers alleged Kay withheld and eliminated evidence of the physical and sexual abuse endured by E.M and failed to report or stop the abuse by allowing E.M. to be in physically available to his older brother/abuser, C.T. As a consequence, E.M. suffered severe physical and psychological trauma

and damages.

Court documents show E.M. drew illustrations of C.T. gripping a knife and cutting him. The Muellers allege these pictures were shared with Kay who, according to the Muellers, discretely took them out of the foster home.

After E.M. told Kay of C.T.’s abuse, the Mueller’s claim E.M. was put on an additional psychotropic medication, Depakote, and Kay allegedly blamed the boy claiming he was psychologically unstable, and a bad person.

The Muellers detail a pattern of San Bernardino County knowingly concealing abusive foster children, known to abuse other foster children, posing a danger, specifically singling out dependent foster child known as, Rickie F.,

alleged to have sexually abused a younger male foster child, and CFS failing to document or report it, to where two other boys were also sexually abused.

They characterize San Bernardino County’s conduct as demonstrating a reckless or callous indifference to the federally protected rights of the Muellers and E.M., seeking punitive damages against the county from the court.

Attorney Eric Rossman explained evidence showed an appearance that the San Bernardino County Children and Family Services had ignored, and were indifferent to the warning signs of abuse in the placement of C.T. and E.M. with foster/adoptive parents William and Michelle Mueller (Gail Fry, Black Voice News).

The county answers the Mueller’s complaint

In response to Mueller’s complaint, the County of San Bernardino acknowledged E.M. and C.T. were placed in foster care in 2013 and that it has a responsibility to safeguard children it places into foster care.

Additionally, the county acknowledged that children in foster care have the right to live

Clorox is recalling millions of bottles of Pine-Sol products because they could contain a potentially harmful bacteria, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

The bacteria has been found in products produced between January 2021 and September 2022. The Clorox Company, which owns Pine-Sol, manufactured an estimated 37 million recalled products during that time frame, per the CPSC.

The recall includes eight products:

Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner, Lavender Clean Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner, Sparkling Wave Pine-Sol Multi-Surface Cleaner, Lemon Fresh CloroxPro Pine-Sol All Purpose Cleaner, Lavender Clean CloroxPro Pine-Sol All Purpose Cleaner, Sparkling Wave CloroxPro Pine-Sol All Purpose Cleaner, Lemon Fresh CloroxPro Pine-Sol All Purpose

The date codes on the recalled products all have the prefix “A4” and the first five numbers of those codes are less than 22249. The products were sold in bottles of 28, 48, 60, 100, 144, and 175 fluid ounces. These products have sold at Amazon.com, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Dollar General, Target, Home Depot, BJ’s, Kroger, Dollar Tree, Lowe’s, Publix, and other major retailers nationwide, per the CPSC.

The bacteria behind this recall is commonly found in soil and water, but it isn’t something you want in your home: It can cause infections in the blood, lungs, or other body parts, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Also worth noting: The CDC says this type of bacteria is known for its ability to resist antibiotics. In other words, there isn’t a quick fix for a potential infection.

The bacteria can enter the body if inhaled, through the eyes, or

through a break in the skin. People with healthy immune systems are usually not affected by the bacteria.

What You Should Do

Consumers should immediately stop using Pine-Sol Scented MultiSurface Cleaners in Lavender Clean, Sparkling Wave, and Lemon Fresh scents, CloroxPro Pine-Sol All Purpose Cleaners, in Lavender Clean, Sparkling Wave, Lemon Fresh, and Orange Energy scents, and Clorox Professional Pine-Sol Lemon Fresh Cleaners that have date codes printed on the bottle beginning with “A4” and the first five digits numbered less than 22249, which represents products produced prior to September 2022. Consumers should take pictures of the 12 digit UPC code and the date code, dispose of the product in its container with household trash, and contact Pine-Sol for a full refund of the purchase price, with receipt, or of the manufacturer’s suggested retail price, without receipt.

If the Pine-Sol you have was affected by the recall, take a picture of the 12-digit universal product code (UPC) and the date code on the container, then throw your bottle away (without opening it). If you happen to have your receipt, Pine-Sol will give you a refund for what you paid; if you don’t, they’ll refund you the manufacturer’s suggested retail price.

You can contact Pine-Sol at (855) 378-4982 or PineSolRecalls@ inmar.com for more information on how to get your money back.

A series of lawsuits, verdicts, and settlements, against San Bernardino County Children & Family Services raises alarms – Part 2

in a safe, healthy and comfortable home and the right to not be physically and sexually abused, and that they did not disclose to the Muellers C.T.’s pattern of undocumented alleged physical and sexual abuse of his younger brother E.M.

Additionally, the county acknowledged E.M. and C.T. had monthly visits with social worker Kay while they were living with the Muellers in foster care.

Yet, the County viewed its employees’ actions as reasonable, done in good faith and without malice or deliberate indifference, supporting claims of qualified immunity and/or absolute immunity from a lawsuit.

The County further claimed lack of knowledge, unclear questions, that other third parties had responsibility, and the County is immune from liability for its employees’ falsehoods among other defenses and denials.

In prepping for trial, the County of San Bernardino alleged negligence is insufficient to support a violation of due process when resulting in unintended loss of or injury to life, liberty, or property, and has no duty to protect individuals from third parties, that some responsibility belongs to the state, and social worker Kay did not know C.T. was abusing his younger brother E.M. until after C.T. was removed from the Muellers’ home.

The county further alleged not one of E.M.’s service providers or numerous mandated reporters suspected that E.M. was being abused, or notified Kay, or anyone at the County, and denied E.M.’s

claim that he had disclosed his abuse to Kay.

The County of San Bernardino rebuffed any claims that they deprived the Muellers or E.M. of rights, privileges, and/or immunities guaranteed by the United States Constitution and other laws that resulted in damage.

The county alleged it has a policy or practice of documenting, reporting, and preventing physical and sexual abuse, did not fail to train or monitor its employees –Kay or others – and has a policy of keeping siblings together, and there was no reason that they knew of to separate the brothers.

The Muellers and Dobie were represented by lead Attorney Eric S. Rossman and co-counsel attorney John Kristensen.

A link to the website for the Rossman Law Group, PLLC, can be found here: https://rossmanlaw. com/

Attorney John Kristensen of Kristensen, LLP, in Los Angeles served as co-counsel representing the Muellers and Dobie in their case against the County of San Bernardino. (source: Attorney Eric Rossman).

On August 30, Eric S. Rossman, attorney for the Muellers and E.M., announced the $7.5 million settlement reached with San Bernardino County.

“[T]he settlement brings closure and justice to the child and his family from this extremely difficult time of their lives,” Attorney Rossman confirmed about the settlement.

“Hopefully, from this settlement and other cases, San Bernardino County will begin taking

appropriate steps to correct systemic failures and will better protect children who are placed into its foster care program from physical and sexual abuse,” Rossman declared.

“The County agreed to resolve litigation filed by the child and the adoptive parents,” San Bernardino County Public Information Officer David Wert voiced, reasoning, “While the County has not admitted any liability in this matter, when deciding to resolve litigation the County considers the effects of protracted litigation on children and families.”

Wert concluded, “The County considers the resolution to be consistent with the well-being of all parties.”

In an interview with the San Bernardino American News, Rossman said in his opinion San Bernardino County Department of Children and Family Services is poorly run, children are not safe or protected from harm.

Attorney Eric Rossman described the San Bernardino County Children and Family Services as a poorly run department of the county, that fails to protect children, and even today it’s foster care program is not safe for children. (Gail Fry, Black Voice News)

This article is the second in a series examining the failures by San Bernardino County’s Department of Child and Family Services to protect children entrusted to its care and the millions of dollars in settlement costs to the county as a result. Part 3 will look deeper into the troubled history of this department.

continued in next 3 columns

Credit: Shutterstock

World/Health News

ALERT: Clorox Recalls 37 million Bottles of Pine-Sol for Bacteria

Cleaner, Orange Energy Clorox Professional Pine-Sol Lemon Fresh Cleaner

NAREB Calls On White House And Congress To Boost Homeownership And Close Wealth Gap Organization Will Hold Elected Officials Accountable

WASHINGTON – The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) called on the White House and Congress to enact legislation aimed at increasing Black homeownership after provisions approved by the House were excluded from the Inflation Reduction Act, which Congress passed and was signed into law by President Biden.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), chair of House Financial Services Committee, championed $150 billion of assistance for renters and potential homebuyers in House legislation, including support for first-generation homebuyers and improved fair housing enforcement. After it was eliminated, Rep. Waters summed up her disappointment in a speech on the House floor: “There is not one nickel, not one dime, not one dollar, for the development of housing in this bill.”

NAREB President Lydia Pope said organization members are disappointed that down payment assistance for first-generation homebuyers, as well as other measures, were stripped from the legislation before passage. She called for Congress and the White House to work on legislation to address lagging Black homeownership and the racial wealth gap in America.

“Certainly, we recognize that compromises were made for the bill to pass, but those cannot

NAREB President Lydia Pope

come at the expense of African Americans, who have experienced decades of housing discrimination, and its intergenerational impact,” said Pope. “Too many elected officials, corporations, and others talk about their equity agenda, then do far too little to make it a reality. It is time that they be held accountable.”

Pope acknowledged that Rep. Waters and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH), who chairs the Senate Banking Committee, continue to press for down payment assistance. Pope called on Congress to pass legislation in a lame duck session after the midterm elections. “This is an area where we need immediate action,” she said. “Too many families are denied the American Dream of homeownership. The ugly legacy of housing discrimination must end, and a new chapter must begin that helps Blacks generate intergenerational wealth.”

Pope noted that homeownership for Blacks dropped nearly 20% since 2008. Fifty-four years after the 1968 Fair Housing Act, the

homeownership gap has widened. In 1960, a 27-point gap existed with 38% of Blacks owning homes compared to 65% of Whites. The gap is now 29.6% with 44.6% of Blacks owning homes and 74.2% of Whites, the largest spread since 1890.

The House legislation had addressed one of the most difficult hurdles for Black homeowners –the down payment costs. Studies find that many Black families have the income to qualify for a mortgage but struggle to come up with the upfront costs. The House had included a $10 billion down payment grant program for first-time, first-generation homebuyers. “The nation needs that legislation to be revived,” said Pope. “Homeownership is the largest component of wealth for African Americans. To reduce the wealth gap, which spurs inequities throughout our society, there must be a significant boost in homeownership.”

Specifically, NAREB has identified four areas that need to be addressed.

Ø Down Payment Assistance. Currently, there are options for down payment assistance available for families, but most come with conditions that hurt their ability to get a home loan. Some programs tack on a second mortgage or stricter wage and credit score

NAREB Calls On White House And Congress To Boost Homeownership And Close Wealth Gap...continued

requirements. Others link down payment assistance to a tax credit, but that kind of relief does little to help a family that cannot close on house because they cannot afford the down payment. NAREB supports a grant program for down payment assistance so that participation does not impact the ability to qualify for a mortgage.

Ø Student Loan Debt. Four years after college graduation, Black people owe an average of $25,000 more in student loan debt than their White counterparts, and Black people leave school with an average of $52,726 in student debt, according to the Brookings Institution. The student loan debt impacts the ability of Black people to purchase homes.

One of the biggest issues is the inconsistency in determining how student loan debt is calculated in the debt ratios of the mortgage underwriting process. Essentially, while the future debt is factored in, anticipated future wage increases are not. There has been some progress with Fannie and Freddie acknowledging income-based payment plans that lower the monthly debt ratio calculations, but it does not address the fact that the actual student loan debt continues rising. It is critical that a uniform standard is created that guides the Federal Housing Administration,

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Veterans Administration in calculating the debt, so it is not left to lenders.

Ø Loan-Level Price Adjustments (LLPAs). A comprehensive study by the Journal of Financial Economics found that riskequivalent Latinx/Black borrowers pay significantly higher interest rates on GSE-securitized and FHA-insured loans, particularly in minority neighborhoods.

Researchers estimate that these rate differences cost minority borrowers more than $450 million yearly. The LLPAs are the culprit.

Even if someone qualifies for a loan, lenders are allowed to adjust the interest rate based on credit scores. Further, Private Mortgage Insurance companies are also increasing their rates for mortgage insurance based on credit ratings. Thus, the consumer can get hit with higher rates twice creating price increases that can push potential buyers out of the market. NAREB seeks an end to LLPAs and established that if a family meets the qualifications for a mortgage, they get the loan without additional fees.

Ø Fair Appraisals. NAREB seeks an end to appraisal bias when Black people are selling

their homes or need a valuation on new ones. A Brookings Institution study shows that homes in Black neighborhoods appraised for 23% less than similar homes in White neighborhoods. A 2021 Redfin study found that homes in Black neighborhoods are undervalued by $46,000 on average, a gap that has been constant over the past decade. Furthermore, the appraisal review process is deeply flawed. When an appraisal is disputed, the burden is on the real estate agent or lender to provide data supporting a change in the valuation. But that rarely happens – less than 3% of appraisals are ever revised. NAREB wants a revamped appraisal review process. In addition, NAREB calls on the public and private sector to help increase the number of Black appraisers. There are 78,000 appraisers across the country but only 2% are Black.

“NAREB will be publicly calling on lawmakers and the Biden Administration to take action on these issues, particularly pressing elected officials who rely on votes from Black communities,” said Pope. “Rhetoric no longer counts for much. Our communities need action, and this organization will hold elected officials accountable to the people who elect them.”

Angie