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By Tanu Henry, Lila Brown and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

On November 20, a group of 14 public and private sector executives in Los Angeles pledged their commitment to ensure that Black and other minority business owners receive a fairer shot at obtaining public contracting opportunities on infrastructure projects.

Called the Equity in Infrastructure Project (EIP) Pledge, the agreement is part of the EIP’s launch of its California Plan Initiative which was unveiled during a forum hosted by Engineering News-

Record, a publication widely recognized as “the bible of the construction industry.”

The Forum convened hundreds of infrastructure leaders from across California and around the nation. It also marked the second anniversary of President Biden’s signing of the historic federal infrastructure law.

The leaders announced that California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin will serve as Chair of the EIP’s California Plan initiative.

In his remarks before the signing, Omishakin pointed out the need to move from symbolic acts of inclusion to more material efforts for achieving equity.

“We can’t just put a policy in place as if it’s good to go. We have to take additional steps like the ones we’re taking today to say we’re committed to making sure this $1.2 trillion that’s coming in from President Biden gets to firms that are often are overlooked as a part of the process,”Omishakin told California Black Media (CBM).

“Governor Newsom has done a similar effort that also ensures the investments that we’re making across California reaches communities that have been overlooked for years,” he added. “Every single person deserves the chance to be successful. It’s an honor for us to be a part of the Equity in Infrastructure Project.”

EIP’s says its mission is to build generational wealth and reduce the racial wealth gap by improving public infrastructure contracting practices to create more prime, joint venture and equity contracting opportunities for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs), according to the group’s website.

EIP’s Pledge has now been signed by 55 heads of transit authorities, airports, ports, water districts, and engineering firms from across the country, and the White House has directly called upon Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grantees to sign the Pledge.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell introduced the unanimously approved motion that committed the County to the Pledge.

“We commit to tripling the total number of certified small businesses in LA County with a special emphasis on infrastructure servicing small minority businesses,” said Mitchell.

“We are establishing a $2M revolving loan fund to support startup costs as small businesses obtain County contracts and we will create a network of Small Business Advocates with each County department and empower them to advance small business goals and inclusive procurement practices,” Mitchell added. We must ensure that our small and minority firms have the technical assistance they need to access these career-changing government contracts.”

The Pledge was also signed by leaders from the Los Angeles Metro, Port, Airport, Department of Water & Power, and other executives from cities around the region.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney’s Office are teaming up this holiday season for “Operation Smash and Grab.”

“Deputy Sheriffs will be undercover in stores throughout the county with the purpose of arresting actors engaged in retail theft,” said Sheriff Shannon Dicus in a statement. “Working together with our District Attorney’s office, those actors will not only be arrested and booked into jail, but they will be prosecuted and held to answer for their crimes. We want the citizens of our county to have safe and enjoyable shopping experiences.”

D.A. Jason Anderson added, “This holiday season, our office remains focused on ensuring the safety of our community and businesses. By working together with law enforcement and businesses across the county, we will seek prosecution and accountability for individuals who choose to engage in unlawful behavior such as retail theft crimes, buying or selling stolen property, or organized crime schemes at multiple locations.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Major Bravo and the Serrano High School Cadet Corps held their annual Bivouac on Saturday, November 25, 2023.

“The weekend was full of activities that taught the 20 plus students about land navigation, first aid, survival craft, and archery — all while enhancing their leadership and communication skills,” said District Director Kimberly Mesen, who was honored to accept a Certificate of Appreciation from the Cadet Corps during the event.

Additional thanks to CO Nance, who planned the entire Bivouac schedule, and to Mojave Archers for hosting!

UPLAND, CA—- Ophelia’s Jump Productions (OJP) will present the world premiere of Sealed Orders, written by Claremont playwright, Jean Collinsworth and directed by Ophelia’s Jump Founding Artistic Director, Beatrice Casagrán. The production will be performed at the Ophelia’s Jump Theater, located at 2009 Porterfield Way, Suite H, in Upland, from November 24 through December 10, 2023.

The cast includes Kelly Franett* (Measure for Measure, OJP) as Herman Melville, Jenny Buchanan* (Native Gardens, OJP) as Lizzie Melville, Sofia Levi as Bessie Melville, David Duarte Guzman as Malcolm Melville, Allison Meister as Mary Sullivan, Jeff Sable* (Native Gardens, OJP) as Richard Henry Dana, Ralph Merant as Robert Morris, Stacey Patiño as Olive Fairchild and Edgardo Flores as Matenga Te Hiko.

Herman Melville, author of the metaphysically loaded, Moby Dick, had four children. Two left home early estranged from a father whom they described as a tyrant. A daughter, Bessie, remained at home and never married. In the fall of 1867, Malcolm, Melville’s eldest son, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at age 18. The likely suicide was quickly covered up by the Melville family. This historically based drama explores the family dynamics that led to Malcolm’s desperate act and how the tragedy affected Melville’s later work.

SEALED ORDERS

• Written by Jean Collinsworth
• Directed by Beatrice Casagrán
• Regular Run – November 24 through December 10, 2023
• Featuring: Kelly Franett*, Jenny Buchanan*, Sofia Levi, David Duarte Guzman, Allison Meister, Jeff Sable*, Ralph Merant, Stacey Patiño and Edgardo Flores. *member of Actors’ Equity Association

LOCATION

2009 Porterfield Way, Suite H, Upland, CA 91786

TICKET INFORMATION

All seats $32 and $25 for college students with ID. Pay What You Can/Pay it Forward Thursdays. Available on opheliasjump.org or by phone at 909-734-6565. Group discounts available.

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

Several Black legislators serving in the California state Assembly have been appointed as committee chairs for the 2024 legislative session. All are members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC).

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister), who was elected to the position five months ago, made the announcement November 21.

“The Assembly is unified and ready to deliver,” Rivas said in a statement. “That’s what Californians expect from their Legislature and that’s what this team will achieve.”

In a statement to Assembly Chief Clerk Sue Parker, Rivas, who succeeds former Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood), appointed these CLBC members to chair committees: Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), chair of the Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism Committee; Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda), chair of the Health Committee; Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights), chair of the Natural Resources Committee; Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), chair of the Public Safety Committee; and CLBC chair Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), chair of the Transportation Committee.

Assemblymember Tina Mckinnor (D-Inglewood) serves as chair of the Public Employment and Retirement Committee.

“I am thankful to @CASpeakerRivas for entrusting me with the responsibility of chairing the Committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism. Ready to get things done, and fully committed to collaborating with all Members and building on @QuirkSilvaCA’s time as Chair,” Gipson posted Nov. 22 on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

McCarty expressed his commitment to work in the interest of his constituents and others around the state.

“Many topics this panel covers are top of mind for all Californians. “I look forward to moving balanced and common-sense policies next year.”

Bonta thanked Rivas for putting his faith and trust in her and Assemblymember Jim Wood, who represents the Second Assembly District. Wood was appointed Speaker pro Tempore.

“I’m honored and humbled to serve as Assembly Health Chair,” Bonta posted on the social media platform X. “I look forward to fighting for true access to high quality, affordable healthcare for all Californians.”

In addition to the CLBC members assuming committee leadership roles, Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa) has been appointed as chair of the No. 1 Budget Subcommittee on Health and Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside) is

taking the helm of the No.2 Budget Subcommittee on Human Services. Weber is currently running to replace Sen. Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), who terms out in 2024.

Assemblymembers Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) and Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), who are termed out at the end of 2024, have been replaced as chairs of the Appropriations and Public Safety committees, respectively. Jones-Sawyer is running for the L.A. City Council District 10 seat and Holden is running to serve on the L.A. County Board of Supervisors.

McCartys’ Assembly term ends at the end of 2024, because he has chosen to run for Mayor of Sacramento instead of seeking re-election for his Sixth District seat.

Several Sacramento insiders who wished to remain anonymous, expressed their surprise to California (CBM) about Rivas’ decision to replace Bryan, the former Assembly Majority Leader, with Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Davis).

In that role, Bryan was second-in-command in the Assembly.

In his new role as chair of the Natural Resources Committee, Bryan will oversee state agency activities and Assembly policy involving air quality, climate change, energy efficiency, renewable energy, California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), coastal protection, forestry, land conservation, oil spills, solid waste and recycling.

Bryan went on record to publicly accept his new role with grace.

“I’m looking forward to Chairing the Natural Resources Committee next session. Thank you @CASpeakerRivas

for this important appointment,” Bryan stated Nov. 21 on X.

Rivas appointed 17 women to leadership positions, a new record for the Assembly. Wilson, who was formerly Majority Whip, is now the first Black woman in California history to serve as chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee.

The Transportation Committee oversees legislation, public issues and the operations of several state agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, California Transportation Commission, Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and California High-Speed Rail Authority.

“It is an honor to be appointed to serve as the Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee,” said Wilson in a statement.

“Transportation impacts each and every Californian in a significant way,” Wilson continued. “From improving California’s public transit systems, to improving our roads and highways, transportation equity, expanding clean technology use, and mitigating the environmental impacts of our transportation sector, I’m ready to dig in on these crucial public policy challenges and map out a state transportation plan that addresses California’s needs for generations to come.”

By Tanu Henry, Lila Brown and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

Last week, the California Commission on Aging (CCoA) announced that it has re-elected Cheryl Brown as its Chair at its November 9, general meeting in Sacramento.

“Chair Brown will guide the Commission with Vice-Chair David Lindeman, who was also re-elected for the 2024 term,” read the press statement from the CCoA.

Brown, who served two terms in the Assembly representing the 47th district from 2012 to 2016, brings a diverse personal, professional, and public experience, as well as range of skills, to her role on the Commission, including working as a family caregiver. Brown has served as a county urban planner and she is the former co-publisher of the Black Voice News in Riverside, along with her husband Hardy Brown.

After winning re-election, Brown thanked the CCoA.

“I believe in the “California for All” message. To that effort, I want to make multi-generational activities key. We will celebrate 50 Years as a Commission next year and I’m looking forward to leading that effort,” said Brown, who served as a founding member of the Stakeholder Advisory Committee for the California Master Plan on Aging (MPA), in a statement.

The CCoA praised Brown for her accomplishments during her first term.

“Chair Brown led the advancement of CCoA policy priorities, and legislation, and raised the visibility of the Commission,” the statement read.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—On Tuesday, Oct. 17, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Ramona-Alessandro and Lankershim Elementary Schools, Del Vallejo Leadership & STEAM Academy and Middle College High School (MCHS).

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship, and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the district’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Ramona-Alessandro Elementary School, Principal Teresa Hopkins:
Vivionna Hamilton is a fifth grader and Outstanding Student. Hamilton is a driven scholar who excels in whatever she sets her mind to. She does well academically, plays saxophone in the advanced band and plays on the after-school softball team. Hamilton also works well with others and is very helpful, even representing her classmates as a student council member. Hamilton aspires to become a nurse.

Jason Johnson is a sixth grader and Outstanding Student. Johnson has a good attitude, is in school every day and is helpful to others. He doesn’t give up easily and is quick to correct any mistakes. He currently plays on Alessandro’s soccer team and promotes leadership on the field. Johnson wants to play college basketball or football while studying architecture and engineering in college.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Cathlene Botello is dedicated to Ramona-Alessandro’s School Site Council, providing suggestions and feedback to improve the school. She is a member of Alessandro’s Tiger University, which empowers families to build healthy relationships and college and career readiness for scholars. Botello plays a pivotal role in the lives of her children and makes a positive difference in the lives of others.

Secretary Ashley Dorsey is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Dorsey has an unwavering commitment to Ramona-Alessandro and the community. She has a collaborative spirit and the ability to work with others. Her participation with the PBIS team and family nights and other events contributes to Alessandro’s positive culture and success. Dorsey inspires others through her positive attitude and strong work ethic.

Demonstration teacher Shannan Usher is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Usher prioritizes the academic and personal growth of her scholars above all else. She holds the belief that every scholar can succeed and tailors the instruction to meet their diverse learning needs. Usher views each day as an opportunity to ignite scholar’s curiosity, inspire critical thinking, and foster a love of learning.

Lankershim Elementary School, Principal Evette Peters:

Veronnika Palmer is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Palmer is very kind and helpful. She helps her classmates if she sees they are struggling. She is always on task, has a very positive attitude and tries to excel at all she does! Palmer plans to study Environmental Science in college to help protect plants because they are a valued food source, and she wants them to still be around.

Diego Ramirez is a sixth-grader and Outstanding Student. Ramirez’s enthusiasm for learning is not only obvious from his exceptional grades but also in the way he inspires his classmates to reach for new heights. His leadership in group projects and his willingness to help others in need have enriched the classroom environment. Ramirez wants to attend college and join a Major League Baseball team.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Samantha Liotta has been actively involved at Lankershim since her oldest child was in kindergarten, and he is now a high school senior. She has volunteered in numerous classes over the years, and she continues to help teachers long after her own children have moved on to other classes. School staff are proud to call her a Lankershim Lion.

Bilingual Attendance Assistant Susie Vazquez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Vazquez goes beyond just marking attendance. Her commitment, skills, professionalism and genuine passion for her role have not only strengthened Lankershim’s attendance system, but also built invaluable connections with the diverse scholar and parent community.

Kindergarten Teacher Gail Shaw is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Shaw has been a beacon of commitment and excellence in education for more than 30 years. Gail consistently goes the extra mile for her students and their parents, ensuring they receive the utmost support for academic achievement. She works tirelessly to ensure that she is aligned to site and District goals and focuses on results together as she leads her kindergarten team.

Del Vallejo Leadership & STEAM Academy, Principal Jackie Maner:

Eighth-grader Tyree Hollins is an Outstanding Student. Hollins is a kind and extremely respectful young man. He always gives 110% to the task at hand. He is a role model on campus and is always the first scholar to volunteer to help others. Hollins doesn’t know which college he wants to attend, but he knows he wants to make friends and enjoy life.

Kimberly Nguyen is an eighth-grader and Outstanding Student. Nguyen’s drive to learn pushes those around her to reach higher in an effort to keep up. She is also compassionate, going out of her way to help her peers and staff. Nguyen’s favorite class is STEAM, and she credits her teacher Nicholas Destasio for helping her to express her creativity in a meaningful way. Her career goal is to become an animatronics designer.

Marisol Delgado is an Outstanding Parent Award winner. Delgado is a constant presence on the Del Vallejo campus. She is more than an advocate for her son. She is his champion. Whether it’s volunteering to attend field trips, participating on parent advisory councils or serving as a liaison between the District and school, Delgado is all in. She helps to make Del Vallejo a great place to learn and grow.

Outstanding Custodian I Marcelle Baber is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Baber has been essential in the maintenance of a safe and positive environment at Del Vallejo by way of the cleanliness of the campus and the pride and enthusiasm he takes in performing his daily tasks. His productivity and outcomes reflect his dedication to SBCUSD and the community at large. And as an employee and a human being impacting the lives of children, Baber is a testament to the true spirit of Basics of Excellence.

Elizabeth Thomas is an Outstanding Certificated Employee and Middle School Science Teacher. She approaches her work and customer service with positivity and optimism. Her approach to education is deeply rooted in doing what’s best for every person she encounters. And Thomas’s actions and work habits are guided by her sense of purpose, positive passion and emotional commitment to her students.

Middle College High School, Principal James Espinoza:

Senior Anthony A. Lopez is an Outstanding Student. Lopez works hard in all of his classes, both high school and college, and currently has a 4.82 G.P.A. As an exemplary Peer Leader, he goes out of his way to help his classmates and the MCHS staff. During a recent Peer Leader event, Lopez worked behind the scenes supporting others and problem-solving. Lopez plans to continue his college education at UCLA before serving others through a career in medicine.

Nishia McCain is a senior and an Outstanding Student. She started Middle College’s first Mock Trial team and scored perfect 10s as a defense or prosecution lead attorney in every match. As ASB president, she’s demonstrated her passionate, creative, risk-taking and totally collaborative leadership style that has inspired every grade level and club this year. McCain plans to become a civil rights attorney, where she will serve our community and close equity gaps.

Hardy Brown, Jr. is an Outstanding Parent. Brown is an amazing advocate for MCHS, promoting the dual enrollment site as a means for closing equity and college completion gaps. He’s influenced many students and their families in their decision to apply to and attend MCHS, not just his own children, Peyton, a current 10th-grade student, and Jordan, a 2016 alumnus. And Hardy Brown, Jr.’s speech at the school’s 10-year anniversary was truly inspiring.

Custodian I Silvia Hernandez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Hernandez demonstrates love for the MCHS Wolverine family by working tirelessly to make sure the site is clean and ready to provide a welcoming and accommodating place for students and visitors. Hernandez goes above and beyond in all she does, including picking up all trash on the perimeter of the school each morning before the school day starts.

Math Teacher, Dept. Chair, Math/Tech Coach Axel Olson is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Olson is known for his positive passion and has a sense of purpose, seeking to close student equity gaps and meet Middle College goals. During distance learning, he served by helping the entire MCHS staff become experts in Google Classroom.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- In a touching ceremony that bridged generations and honored military service, Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. witnessed a proud moment as his late grandfather, World War II veteran Telesfor Dominguez, was awarded a high school diploma posthumously by the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Veterans Diploma Project.

“My family and I are filled with pride as we accept this diploma on behalf of my grandfather,” said Supervisor Baca, Jr. “His service to our country is a legacy that continues to inspire us, and this recognition highlights the value of all who served and sacrificed for our country.”

The San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, in partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs, honored four distinguished veterans, including Dominguez, in the 15th annual Operation Recognition Veterans Diploma Project. The initiative seeks to correct the historical oversight for those whose education was interrupted due to their commitment to serve the nation or because of internment.

Among the honorees were Alfredo Raul Jimenez, John C. Juarez, and William Edward Kawa, who each received their diplomas as a testament to their dedication and perseverance. Supervisor Baca, Jr. added, “Congratulations to all the honorees. This project celebrates the continued support and commitment of SBCSS and Veterans Affairs to our veteran community.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD), in partnership with Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), is providing three free sports physical clinics for any SBCUSD middle or high school student who wants to play school sports.

Prior to trying out for a school sport, all students are annually required to complete a physical to determine whether it is safe or not to participate.

Families who are interested in one of the upcoming free clinics may book an appointment by contacting Student Wellness & Support Services (SWSS) at (909) 473-2080. No insurance or legal documentation is required.

Appointments are available on any one of three dates and locations. All clinics are held from 8 to 11 a.m.

Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023

Shandin Hills Middle School

4301 Little Mountain Drive, San Bernardino

Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024

Del Vallejo Leadership & STEAM Academy (Middle School)

1885 E. Lynwood Drive, San Bernardino

Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024

Arrowview Middle School

2299 North G Street, San Bernardino

Students may also receive a sports physical from their primary care doctor, a qualified medical professional or at a designated sports physical clinic.

RIALTO, CA— A new state-of-the-art police station is coming to one of Southern California’s fastest-growing communities following a decision this week by the Rialto City Council to move forward with a development agreement and financing for the planned 56,500-square-foot facility.

The new police station and support building will replace the Rialto Police Department’s 50-year-old facility on North Willow Avenue, which was built when the City had fewer than 30,000 people and a total of 45 sworn and civilian police staff. Today, Rialto is home to 104,000 people and has 135 sworn police officers and 84 civilian staff.

“It has been the dream of the Rialto City Council to have a police station that represents the hard work of the dedicated men and women of the department and their service to the community. This is something we’re all very proud of,” said Rialto City Councilmember Ed Scott.

On Tuesday, November 14, the City Council approved a development agreement with Griffin, Swinerton and a financing agreement that includes the issuing of lease revenue bonds to help cover the projected $83 million cost of the project. The City will contribute $30 million from its unrestricted fund balance – money that is not part of the General Fund or other operating reserves. The balance, estimated at roughly $53 million, would be paid for through the sale of bonds. The agreement with Griffin Swinerton reflects an innovative public-private partnership (P3) which streamlines the development process.

Groundbreaking would occur by midyear 2024, with a projected completion date of mid 2026.

The new two-story police station near Willow Avenue and Rialto Avenue would include a 40,800-square-foot main building and a 10,000-square-foot support building. The latter would house a firearms range, logistics and quartermaster, animal control, bicycle patrol and storage. The existing police station will remain operational during the construction period, with no interruption in service.

By building the new station now, the city will be able to meet the public safety and quality-of-life needs well into the future. By 2035, Rialto forecasts its population to exceed 111,000, along with continued business expansion that has made it a critical economic and employment hub within the Inland Empire. Police staffing by 2035 is projected to reach 169 sworn officers and 91 civilian staff.

“On behalf of the Rialto Police Department, we are honored to serve the Rialto community and we’re looking forward to THIS new police facility to set the standard for law enforcement, ” said Mark Kling, Chief of Police who has served in that capacity since 2017, and also served as Chief of Police for Rialto from 2001 to 2012.