Volume 40 No.1 | Thursday March 26, 2026

Letter to the Editor:

Cutting Coverage of Diabetes and Weight Loss Meds Hits Black Californians Hardest

By Rhonda M. Smith | Special to California Black Media

But beneath that image is a grow- ing public health crisis we cannot afford to ignore.

Roughly 11 million adults in Cali- fornia about 27% of Califor- nians are living with obesity. If trends continue, that number could surpass 40% by 2030. This is not a cosmetic issue. It is a chronic dis- ease crisis with profound health and economic consequences.

And like most health crises in this country, it does not impact all com- munities equally.

Nearly 38% of Black adults in California-including 41% of Black women in the state are obese or overweight. Because obesity is a precursor to many other conditions, See "Cutting Coverage..." page 7

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LUE Productions Launches Search for Young Talent for Inland Empire-Based Boy Group "Urban City Boyzz"

INLAND EMPIRE, CA - LUE Productions is proud to announce an exciting casting call for two tal- ented young performers to join its new all-boy urban singing group, Inland Empire UCB – Urban City 10 and 13 Boyzz (UCB).

This new youth group aims to showcase rising talent from the Inland Empire, blending vocal performance, choreography, and stage presence into a dynamic en- tertainment experience. LUE Pro- ductions is seeking young boys with passion, energy, and the “it factor" to help shape the next gen- eration of performers.

"We are creating something spe- cial that not only highlights talent but also builds confidence, discipline, and teamwork among youth in our community,” said a repre- sentative from LUE Productions. Audition Requirements:

Boys between the ages of Must be able to sing Must be able to dance Must demonstrate confi- dence and stage presence Selected members will have the opportunity to train, perform, and grow within a professionally guided group environment. How to Apply: Interested candidates or parents/ guardians can contact LUE Pro- ductions directly by email at Lue. [email protected] or by phone at 909-567-1000.

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UCB-Urban Citty Boyzz

LUE Productions is searching for 2 talented boys to complete our dynamic all-boy urban singing group, Inland Empire UCB - Urban Citty Boyzz!

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Your voice could be the star we've been waiting for.

[email protected] - Lueproductions.org