Happily Divorced And After

By Alyssa Hall

When he was younger, Grenada native, Christon Arthur remembers his mother telling stories about her childhood and how she was kicked out of school in third grade. Not because she was a bad child or not intelligent, but because she was a girl and her school thought she should be at home and domesticated.

Arthur was very close to his late mother, whom he called his inspiration for pursuing the field of education. From a young age Arthur was determined to become a teacher so that what happened to his mother would never happen to anyone again.

Since July 1, 2024, Arthur has served as La Sierra University’s sixth president. He is the university’s first Black president since the school was founded in 1922. La Sierra University is a private, Seventh-day Adventist university. Prior to his appointment at La Sierra, Arthur was the provost of Andrews University in Michigan.

“Being the first anything could be daunting, could be challenging, but at the same time, it’s an opportunity,” Arthur said.

“This is Southern California. One of the more progressive parts of the country. La Sierra, is one of the more progressive universities within the private sector, and then it took us 103 years? You see it as an opportunity to be able to do good work, and to say, you give us the chance, and we will surpass your expectations,” Arthur continued.

Arthur’s journey to success wasn’t without trials, but as he looks back, he’s happy they occurred. When Arthur was a high school teacher in Grenada, there was a position open for principal that he and his colleagues were certain he was going to receive. However, it went to another individual and Arthur was devastated.

“I was sure I was going to get it. Before the end of the year, I got a call from this person saying, ‘we see your work. We see you. We know what you do. We want to provide you a scholarship to go to graduate school,” Arthur recalled.

But, if Arthur had received that job, he would have never attended graduate school and gone on to complete his doctorate, and then become a faculty member at Tennessee State.

“Not getting that job was the biggest blessing [that] ever happened to me. ” Arthur said.

As the Trump administration dismantles programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion, and others that threaten the identities of marginalized communities,  Arthur wants to assure staff and students that La Sierra University is a welcoming place to all, “There’s a place for you,” he said.

“I want that to sort of be, not simply a tagline, not a narrative. I want it to become part of our core. You’re welcome here…we have this grand table, and there’s a place for you at the table.” Arthur explained.

In the last seven months as president, Arthur has been laying the foundation, building relationships and having meaningful and impactful conversations with the community including the Riverside County Office of Education and The 100 Black Men of Inland Empire, Inc.

Arthur shared that he has been in conversation with the 100 Black Men because the group stands for Black excellence and he wants to be a part of combating the negative and stereotypical image that society sometimes has of Black people.

“I want La Sierra to be part of that story, so that our young people can know there’s a place for you at La Sierra University. There’s a place for you to come and to thrive,” Arthur said. “So, we [are] creating those relationships, creating those pathways to say to young people, ‘there is an alternative path, and we’ll help you find it and help you thrive.’”

When it comes to the future, La Sierra University is working on their strategic plan for the next three years. According to Arthur, articulating the university’s core purpose, values, and what makes them unique and distinct is important. Part of their strategic thinking is to increase their student population to 5,000 students in 10 years.  The university’s fall 2023 enrollment numbers were 1,614.

“For fall 2025, we have this slogan, this tagline, this goal, fall 2025 and all 500 new freshmen. It will be the largest freshman class in 14 years,” Arthur said.

“We’re going to stretch ourselves. And sure, they’re ambitious [goals], but they’re attainable. If you can reach your goal without stretching, it’s probably not a lofty enough goal. Your goal should keep you up at night,” Arthur continued.

Publisher’s Commentary by Wallace Allen IV

A fight between two students at Jehue Middle School, located in the Rialto Unified School District, has resulted in a recommendation for felony charges against one student and misdemeanor charges against the other.

The fight evolved in a classroom with other students and a substitute teacher present. Witnesses of the event agree that one of the participants began the show by using a water gun to shoot water on several students, and that one of the people hit by the water had an issue with not only the water splashing, but also something about a pencil.

A real physical fight quickly developed from the loud arguing between the two students, one, a small-in-stature female and the other, a much bigger in height and weight male. The fight lasted long enough for anyone who saw the viral video to wonder, “Where is the teacher?” After about 15 seconds of video, the female student was slammed onto a desk and apparently rendered unconscious. As several students went to the aid of the fallen warrior, the question about the teacher’s presence was answered in that you could hear her voice, not addressing the incident or checking the status of the fallen, apparently unconscious student.

The fight provides another level of concern when it is revealed that the female combatant is Black and the male is Brown. The N-word was used by the male fighter, as well as by some other students! As these children wallow in the racist terminology, they have no knowledge of the fact that most of them in the room would have been forced to use the back doors and drink from separate water fountains in Mississippi during the 1950s Jim Crow Era! Furthermore, they, Black and Brown, are equally subject to being picked up and deported by ICE during the present-day Trump era!

Yet some Black and Brown spoke-stars are able to discern the differences between Black and Brown folks enough to promote the ‘they are not like us’ aspect of the relationship. Who does that line of thinking really help? Justifying the divide between Black and Brown people is a tool that benefits fascism and white superiority!

Felonies and misdemeanors are not solutions for the children who drink the poison Kool-aid that encourages violence as a solution to chaos and confusion. Our children need to be protected and nourished!

The students who fought and who witnessed the fight, plus the teacher who was in the room before and during, should all be required to participate in counseling designed to manage and deescalate anger.

By Angela M. Coggs

On March 15, 2025, in Rancho Cucamonga, CA NFL player Alexander Mattison and the IAMGIFTED Foundation hosted the Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event at the Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy Center. The family-friendly gathering brought the community together to promote mental health awareness in a fun and welcoming environment.

Mattison, a proud San Bernardino native and San Bernardino High School alumnus, took center stage at the event, sharing his personal journey with mental health struggles. He spoke candidly about-facing past challenges without realizing their impact, crediting mentors Pastor Mark Thornton and his aunt, Dr. Angela Mattison-Brantley, for helping him shift his perspective and embrace a positive path forward. With heartfelt gratitude, Mattison praised Dr. Mattison-Brantley for her unwavering support and guidance.

“At IAMGIFTED Foundation, our purpose is to empower and uplift young minds by providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential,” said Niki Dettman, Chief Executive Officer at Making Hop e Happen Foundation and IAMGIFTED Foundation Board Member. “Today’s event truly highlights the power of community, collaboration, and giving back.  We are thankful to Wellness Ranch Therapy and the many sponsors and vendors who supported us.”

Attendees embraced the western theme by donning cowboy hats, boots, and other ranch-inspired attire. Those who participated in the theme were entered into a raffle to win an exciting prize, adding a fun and engaging element to the day.

The event, sponsored by Andre Reed Foundation, Awareness Training, Bank of America, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Carl’s Jr., CIA33 Photography, Creative Kingdom, Cutey Cookies, Goody’s Original Popcorn, Homecooked Meals by Mindy, The Parlor Pizzeria, and SoCAL Fitness and Massage Therapy. It was a lively celebration filled with memorable moments. Mattison actively mingled with guests, signing autographs, posing for photos, and even joining the crowd on the dance floor for the stretching exercise and when the line dance songs started to play. His genuine enthusiasm and energy created a welcoming atmosphere, making it hard to believe this was the IAMGIFTED Foundation’s first wellness event.

“The event at the Wellness Ranch with the Equine Assistance Therapy with Alexander Mattison was absolutely amazing, it was amazing. The kids, the families, the professionals…it was for everybody,” exclaimed County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Troy Mondragon. “Coming here today was a joy for us (Commissioner Contreras). This event saves lives. The way they are demonstrating what mental health can be, how we can live with it and have fun, and that everybody has a gift. That was the message here and it resonated with every single person.”

Mattison’s dedication to his hometown is nothing short of inspiring. Since joining the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings, he has consistently given back to his community. He hosts an annual football camp at San Bernardino High School, providing local kids with mentorship, skills training, and inspiration. Additionally, he sponsors scholarships and personally presents monthly Student of the Month awards to deserving students in the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD).

Mattison’s commitment to showing up in person makes a lasting impact on the students he recognizes. His warm smile, approachable personality, and unwavering dedication have earned him a special place in the hearts of his community. “We are very proud that he (Mattison) is from San Bernardino,” said County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Eloisa Contreras.

Mattison sincerely spoke to the attendees straight from the heart: “You were born with a gift. You have to find it, embrace it and use it to shed light on the world. If you can be a little bit of light in somebody’s dark times, pay it forward and bring them to the light. We can all make this place and world a brighter place. Find your gift within. You’re not alone and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, find your gift and let it shine.”

The Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event was a powerful reminder that mental health awareness can be addressed in a positive, uplifting way — and Alexander Mattison continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, on and off the field, for the San Bernardino community and beyond.

Alexander Mattison is an American professional football running back for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football Leagues (NFL).

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Social Lites, Inc. is proud to announce the 58th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program, which will take place on March 29, 2025, at 5:45 p.m. This prestigious event will showcase the dedication, leadership, and academic excellence of young men vying for the esteemed title of Sir Knight.

The theme for this year’s Beautillion is “Mastering Your Destiny, Defines Your Success,” with keynote speaker Dr. Akinlana Osonduagwuike.  He is an educator who has mentored countless students in helping them align their priorities and pursue their dreams for a successful future. The program underscores the significance of empowering young individuals to take charge of their futures through education, community service, and personal growth.

The participants in this year’s program are Joseph Goree, Jr., Brandon McIntosh, Jr. and Jaden Overstreet where one of the distinguished Knights will be achieve the title of Sir Knight. His journey exemplifies the ideals of perseverance, excellence, and commitment to achieving greatness. The Knights, will present their talents, character, and dedication to making a positive impact in their communities.

Social Lites, Inc. has been dedicated to serving the community for over five decades, providing scholarships and mentorship to deserving young individuals. The Social Lites, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life in our community through educational programs, charitable contributions, and mentorship. The Beautillion Scholarship Program is just one of the many initiatives designed to empower youth and provide them with the resources and opportunities needed to succeed.

The Beautillion Scholarship Program continues to be one of the organization’s signature events, promoting educational advancement and leadership in young men.

The event will feature inspiring speeches and the ceremonial presentation of the Knights, culminating in the announcement of Sir Knight. Scholarships will also be awarded to the Knights who will have demonstrated exemplary qualities throughout the program.

It will take place at San Manuel Santos Student Union Building on the beautiful campus of California State University, CA.

For more information, or to RSVP, please contact Social Lites, Inc., President Sheri Lewis at (909) 320-0799.

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

During an online conference on Feb. 26, California Attorney General Rob Bonta detailed how the Trump Administration had used its first five and half weeks to execute an agenda that runs counter in various ways to California state policies and priorities.

Since taking office, President Donald Trump has issued scores of executive actions that make good on many of his campaign promises. Bonta said the impact of Trump’s exercise of his powers is creeping up on the doorsteps of California’s diverse residents.

“People are scared, worried, anxious, and uncertain about what’s happening in the federal government. And will it impact their lives and loved ones,” Bonta said. “Sadly, I think it’s pretty clear that that’s part of the president’s strategy: To flood the zone, overwhelm us with a barrage of damaging, dangerous, and illegal executive orders and actions that impede on the law and values that make America strong.”

Bonta made the statement while delivering an address as the guest speaker of a virtual conference hosted by Capitol Weekly, a non-partisan publication focused on California politics.

“The Resistance: California vs. Donald Trump.” The 4 ½ hour event explored Trump’s presidential executive orders, mass firings, deportations, and billionaire Elon Musk’s handling of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

One of the directives Trump signed on Jan. 21 bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the federal government and urges the private sector to follow suit.

NATIONWIDE — Tia Mowry recently opened up about the idea of reviving Sister, Sister, the popular ’90s sitcom she starred in with her twin sister, Tamera Mowry-Housley. While she’s not ruling out the idea entirely, Tia also values the show’s legacy and wants to preserve its classic status.

At the Overjoyed launch event in Los Angeles, Tia told People, “Yeah, I mean, never say never. I’m just a huge believer in that, meaning I don’t have a crystal ball, but never say never.”

Sister, Sister aired from 1994 to 1999 and followed the story of twins separated at birth who reunite as teenagers and navigate life together with their adoptive families. The show became a beloved staple of ’90s television.

While many fans are eager for a Sister, Sister reboot, Tia admitted that part of her wants to leave the show as it is. “It was such a beautiful, amazing show, and a part of me just wants to leave it there,” she explained. Tia added that, despite her fondness for the show, she wouldn’t want to risk tarnishing its legacy by bringing it back.

To mark the 30th anniversary of Sister, Sister last year, Tia shared throwback photos and reflected on the impact the show had on her life. She recalled how the show initially faced rejection before becoming a hit, emphasizing how perseverance played a key role in its success.

Tia’s latest project, Tia Mowry: My Next Act, is a reality series that dives into her life after her divorce from Cory Hardrict. It follows her journey of self-discovery and co-parenting her children, Cree and Cairo. She said the series aims to inspire and empower others going through similar experiences.

NATIONWIDE — Former Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly considering a run for California governor in 2026, aiming to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom. According to CBS News, she plans to decide by the summer of 2025 and has already started discussions with supporters and aides.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has publicly backed Harris, saying he will fully support her if she enters the race. Her national profile and strong donor network could significantly influence the state’s political landscape.

While some speculate she may run for president in 2028, winning the governorship could strengthen her political standing. Despite her 2024 presidential loss, analysts suggest a high-profile role in California politics could help revive her national prospects.

In addition to politics, Harris has signed with Creative Artists Agency (CAA) to explore opportunities in publishing and public speaking. This move indicates she is keeping her career options open, whether in public office or elsewhere.

The 2026 California governor’s race already features notable Democratic candidates, including former State Senate President Toni Atkins, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. If Harris enters, she could shift the race dynamics with her broad recognition and fundraising ability.

Harris is currently consulting with family, friends, and advisers before making a final decision. Her choice will impact both California’s political future and national Democratic strategies. With her summer deadline approaching, political observers and voters are closely watching her next move.

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (D-Stockton) says she understood before she was elected to office last year that Californians pay among the highest electricity rates in the country.

So, lowering that cost – and that of other utility bills — has become her top priority.

A member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), Ransom, on her first day on the job in December, introduced Assembly Bill (AB 13). If passed, the legislation will reform the five-member California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and hold its regulators more accountable, providing residents with the transparency, she says, they deserve regarding how their bills are increased.

“This is necessary because (CPUC) oversees the utilities companies that request rate hikes,” Ransom told California Black Media (CBM). “So far, that has been happening but we as the public don’t understand that the CPUC is not an elected body. It is an appointed body. They don’t have to answer to constituents who hold them accountable.”

Ransom represents California’s 13th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Stockton, Tracy and Mountain House. A former Tracy City Councilmember, Ransom was elected to office in the November General Election and is one of nine Black women legislators that are part of the 12-member CLBC.

“We need to ensure that decisions affecting utilities are made with fairness, transparency, and accountability, prioritizing affordability for Californians,” she stated.

The CPUC is a state regulatory agency that was created by a constitutional amendment to regulate privately owned telecommunications, electric, natural gas, water, railroad, rail transit, passenger transportation, and in-state moving companies.

The CPUC is responsible for ensuring that California utility customers have dependable utility service at less expensive rates, protecting utility customers from acts of deception, and promoting the well-being of California’s economy. The agency has a staff of approximately 940 employees.

The commission’s board, which typically meets twice a month, is comprised of five members with a president. Board members are appointed by the Governor and serve six-year terms. The current commissioners are Alice Busching Reynolds, Darcie L. Houck, John Reynolds, Karen Douglas, and Matthew Baker.

Busching-Reynolds is the President.

AB 13 would require that four members of the commission represent the geographic locations of the four State Board of Equalization districts. The bill would require that one member be an at-large member with unspecified qualifications.

“We all wonder sometimes how they make their decisions, how they are approving these rates and are they putting people first,” Ransom said. “They are a part of the California Constitution. They are appointed by the Governor. The Constitution does say they are supposed to be accountable to the Legislature, but the Governor gets to appoint them.”

Ransom continued, “So far, the legislature does not play a big role in what they do. We do get reports from them, but we should be getting a little bit more.”

Additionally, AB 13 would prohibit an elected member of, or an employee of, the Legislature or an employee of the executive branch from serving as a member of the commission within one year after leaving the position as an elected member or employee.

Ransom said she has been working in earnest with stakeholders and her legislative colleagues for months to make sure the bill is a pathway for workable policies that will result in “accountability, accessibility, and transparency” to avoid the rate increases that have constrained many consumers.

AB 13 has been referred to the Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy, where amendments will be made to further align the bill with its intended goals.

The introduction of AB 13 came six weeks after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order designed to reduce electric costs for Californians. The CPUC and California Energy Commission (CEC) were tasked to examine ways to trim programs that would save money on electric bills.

The Governor’s action aimed to provide electric bill relief while maintaining the state’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and 100% clean electricity by the year 2045.

Last year, millions of state residents received an average credit of $71 on their October electric bills from the California Climate Credit, provided by the state’s Cap-and-Trade program.

The climate credit provides ratepayers with their share of the benefits of California’s Cap-and-Trade Program, according to CPUC. The credits are issued twice a year – a natural gas credit in April and electric credits in April and October.

“We’re taking action to address rising electricity costs and save consumers money on their bills,” Newsom stated on Oct. 30. “California is proving that we can address affordability concerns as we continue our world-leading efforts to combat the climate crisis.

On Feb. 18, CPUC released a document titled “Response to

Executive Order N-5-24,” a 38-page document that recommends examining the benefits and costs to electric ratepayers, taking action to modify or sunset any underperforming or underutilized programs, and consulting with the Office of Energy Infrastructure Safety on adjustments to utility wildfire safety oversight processes, procedures, and practices.

Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) discounted the report, calling it “useless.” However, he said the document confirmed that there is another problem.

“A newly released report shows there is plenty of waste in our electricity rates that has never been reviewed for cost-effectiveness,” Gallagher posted Feb. 19 on X. “Mandates and subsidies make our rates some of the highest in the nation. Enough.”

Ransom said working Californians cannot afford another rate hike or price increase.

 “We just want to make sure that people in the position can look out for our best interests,” Ransom told CBM.

March is Older Californians Nutrition Month.

It is a time, state authorities say, to recognize the importance of nutritious food and social connection in healthy aging The California Department of Aging (CDA) reminds older adults that a variety of state-supported programs are available to improve their health and well-being, including group and home-delivered meals, exercise classes, and grocery assistance.

“Californians aged 60 and older have access to free meals specifically designed to meet the nutrition needs of older individuals,” said CDA Director Susan DeMarois.

“For many older Californians, a meal represents more than nutrition — it’s about health, independence, and connection,” she said.

The state provides vital services, such as the Congregate Meals Program, which serves nutritious meals at senior centers and other venues, and the Home-Delivered Meals Program, which ensures that homebound seniors receive healthy meals. In 2024, CDA’s local partners delivered 15.7 million meals to isolated older adults. Additionally, the CalFresh program offers financial assistance to help eligible seniors purchase food, with participation growing significantly in recent years.

“Ensuring that older Californians have access to healthy meals and essential services is part of our broader commitment to equity and well-being,” said California Health & Human Services Agency Secretary Kim Johnson.

By 2030, older adults are projected to outnumber children in California, making access to these resources more critical than ever. The state also offers programs like the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program, which help seniors buy fresh produce and meals at participating locations.

For more information on available services, seniors can contact their local Area Agency on Aging or visit CDA’s website.

By BoTefu | California Black Media

Gov. Gavin Newsom has condemned the Trump Administration’s decision to impose tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, warning that the move will hurt American consumers and businesses.

“Tariffs are nothing more than a tax on hardworking American families — driving up the cost of groceries, cars, and essential goods,” Newsom said in a statement.

California, the world’s fifth-largest economy, is particularly vulnerable to trade disruptions. The state relies heavily on imports and exports, with Mexico, Canada, and China accounting for over 40% of its imports. In 2024 alone, California imported $203.3 billion worth of goods from these three nations, out of a total $491.5 billion in imports.

Beyond increasing consumer prices, Newsom warned that retaliatory tariffs from these countries would directly impact California businesses, farmers, and exporters. Mexico, Canada, and China are the state’s top three export destinations, and new trade restrictions could significantly affect key industries, including agriculture and manufacturing.

The Governor also highlighted the potential impact on the construction sector, noting that tariffs could raise costs for materials essential to rebuilding efforts following the devastating firestorms in Los Angeles County.