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(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— REDLANDS, CA— On Friday, August 31 in Redlands, Music Changing Lives (MCL) and Hartlis Apparel hosted a celebrity basketball game that addressed social issues amongst our youth, including prevention and intervention against drugs, gangs, teen violence and dropping out of school.

With pre-game activities including studio tours and interviews, incredible halftime performances and a super competitive game with only a 2-point win, this year’s Ball 4 A Cause celebrity game was a HUGE success.  

“What I loved most about the Ball 4 A Cause fundraiser was that we not only raised funds and awareness for our unique programs, but it also provided a forum to meet with alums that have participated in MCL’s programs from as long as 15 years ago,” Josiah Bruny, CEO and Founder of Music Changing Lives, explained.

“We also got to meet new friends who are committed to helping keep music and art alive for youth throughout the region and our nation,” Bruny continued.

Common Vision Coalition, Hartlis Apparel, T-Mobile, QTFL Clothing and AT&T who provided families with resources and opportunities through music, art, fitness and cultural experiences to prevent these issues.

The game was the perfect way to kick off Labor Day weekend and several community members took part in the festivities. They included Redlands Community Police officer, R. Williams, Pastor Green of Second Baptist of Redlands and The Redlands Community Center and Quality of Life.

“At MCL we firmly believe strong families form the foundations of strong communities,” Bruny stated. “Everyone has a role to play in making families successful, including neighborhood organizations, businesses, nonprofits, policymakers, and, of course, families themselves.”

He continued, “And together we can continue to change the lives of our families!”

Some of the celebrities and artists that joined included Meg Delacy, Lisa Monah, Baby Girl, Dorjje and all MCL’s student performers whom all graced guests with an amazing halftime show.

“Last, but definitely not least thank you to all of the players who participated.  Words cannot express our gratitude for you helping raise awareness of the social issues our youth face. It was one heck of a game, but in the end MCL out balled Hartlis Apparel 76-74!” Bruny said. 

Be sure to check out the event photos at www.Facebook.com/MusicChangingLivesIE or Instagram at @MusicChangingLives. 

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)- SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools will hold a reading rally on Friday, September 7, for pre-kindergartners to third-graders on the campus of California State University, San Bernardino. The reading rally will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event is in support of San Bernardino County’s Vision2Read Initiative, which looks to promote early literacy and support all children from cradle to career.

Cal State San Bernardino is located at 5500 University Parkway in San Bernardino.

For more information about the reading rally, call the County Schools’ Communications office at (909) 386-2413.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—REDLANDS, CA— On Friday, August 31, Music Changing Lives, (MCL) and Hartlis Apparel will host “Ball 4 A Cause,” a celebrity benefits basketball game to keep music and art alive and address social issues amongst our youth.  The event will take place at the Redlands Community Center, located at 111 W. Lugonia Ave. in Redlands from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Talent slated to participate in Saturday’s “Ball 4 A Cause” celebrity basketball game include actress Meg Delacy from The Fosters & Chicago PD; hip-hop artist Compton AV; celebrity host, TV personality and model Latricia “Purple” Renee, and several other local artist and pro basketball players from the IE that play overseas.  Plus, representatives from the Redlands Police Department will join in on the fun and play in the tournament.

Admission is only $15.00 and children 17 and under are FREE.  Tickets will be sold at the door and school aged children will need a student ID to get in free. For sponsorship, media or general event information, contact 951-992-0721 or email During the half-time show guest speakers at the event will address prevention and intervention against drugs, gangs, teen violence, dropping out of school and the important role music and art play in keeping our youth focused on their education and their futures.

CEO of Music Changing Lives, Josiah Bruny expressed his gratitude to those getting involved, “I want to thank my staff, board members and everyone who answered our call to come out and Ball 4 A Cause.  It’s vital we bring awareness to the issues affecting our youth and community, and I’m grateful for those who see the need and vision and want to get involved to bring change.  In the words of Helen Keller ‘Alone, we can do so little; yet together we can do so much,’ and I truly stand by that.”

The jam-packed event will also feature a tour of MCL’s music studio and art lab; and fans will have an opportunity to record a 15 second shout out for Music Changing Lives and Hartlis Apparel.

To learn more about Music Changing Lives, you can visit them on the web at  www.MusicChangingLives.org.  To shop Hartlis Apparel clothing, visit them on Instagram @hartlisapparel.

By Angela M. Coggs

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— During the Spring of 2018, three San Bernardino City Unified School District students embarked on a trip of a lifetime to Beijing, China. They, along with 18 Los Angeles high school students, were selected by On A Mission, Inc., a Los Angeles-area based mentoring program, to attend this trip designed for academically strong students ages 14 to 17. They returned to Tom Bradley International Airport on April 28, 2018, with an international stamp in their newly issued passports and a cultural experience.

Edwin Henderson, President and CEO of On A Mission, Inc., a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides an after-school program serving students living in Los Angeles area, and beyond. The organization aims to teach life skills to the students, help them become productive adults in today’s changing world. They conduct youth educational trips to places Washington DC, New York and Philadelphia. This year he decided to take the organization first international trip.

Henderson opened the opportunity up to SBCUSD students when he addressed parents and student at a monthly District African American Advisory Council meeting with hopes to recruit local students. SBCUSD students selected were Yonathan Habtemariam (Cajon High School- 12^th), Trayvon Davis (San Bernardino HS- 12^th) and Anise Tyehimba (Cajon High School- 11^th).

In 2016, Edwin Henderson, Founder, and President of OAM, decided to expand and open the application process to students in the Inland Empire because he saw the need in the community. Habtemariam and Davis also attended On A Mission’s annual trip to Washington DC, Philadelphia, and New Your City in 2016. The trip included a tour of the White House, U.S. Capitol, the Martin Luther King Jr and Lincoln Memorial, V.I.P. tour of the Pentagon, Howard University, and more.

This was On A Mission, Inc. 8^th Annual Student Educational Tour (however this was its first international trip). Some of the experiences and places the students had the opportunity to participate in include: Forbidden City, Beijing Capital Museum, Tiananmen Square, 2008 Olympic Games Sites, Great Wall of China, Summer Palace, Rickshaw Ride through Beijing, Kung Fu Show, and an Acrobatic Show.

While visiting a local school in Beijing, they recognized many differences from the schools in the United States. While some in the study group learned how to write calligraphy, a few of the Chinese students asked a few of their American counterparts to play basketball with them. While playing basketball, Davis noticed the one of the Chinese student’s shoes were in bad condition. He opened his duffle bag and gave him a pair of his basketball shoes. The player was very appreciative. “I was humbled that I was able to give those (shoes) to him. He was grateful,” said Davis. “It felt good.”

“I had a window seat and was able to take some pretty amazing pictures as we flew across the Pacific Ocean and other countries such as Russia,” said Tyehimba of the 13-hour flight.

 “Although Anise would miss one week of school, going to China in of itself was an educational experience that no teacher or a textbook could provide,” stated Desney Tyehimba, parent, and educator in the SBCUSD. “Being immersed in another country’s culture, customs, time zone, language, and food for an entire week is a true example of what it means to be a global citizen.”

Before going on the trip, the students were given ideas and tips on how to raise money, so the trip would not put a strain on the family’s household budgets. Habtemariam took advantage of the tips and in addition to receiving support from family and friends, he was also able to secure a donation from the San Bernardino Police Foundation.

“Going to China reassured my appreciation for the county I live in,” reflected Habtemariam. “I think it’s cool how OAM, Inc. is intentionally showing students the world through a different lens.”

From October 24 to October, 28, 2018, Henderson will once again invite approximately 30 deserving students the opportunity of a lifetime, a chance visit five Historical College and Universities at The HBCU College Tour- Atlanta Homecoming 2018. The schools the students will be visiting are Alabama State, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse, Spelman College and Tuskegee. It is important to note, only academically strong students, grades 9^th– 12^th only, will be invited to participate in the trip. The students must also pass a vigorous interview and selection process. In addition to the visiting the educational institutions, the students will also have an opportunity to visit CNN Headquarters, Coke Cola Headquarters and attend the Morehouse Homecoming football game.

On A Mission, Inc., looks forward to including more students from the SBCUSD on next year’s international trip. For more information contact On A Mission, Inc. at (323) 298-4779 or email: info@joinoam.org

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA— Sip, Swirl and Savor form the musical theme as noted Jazz artists perform live at the Inland Empire Jazz Experience, held Saturday, September 1, at the Mountain Vista Winery in Rancho Cucamonga.  Billed as an experience, the event is led by jazz luminaries Michael Haggins and Jason Webber and features distinguished musicians, Vaughn Fahie, Jazz Zone, Teryn Re and Nick Gomez. Set within the winery’s intimate arbor and picnic area, patrons will sip and sample wines from Mountain Vista’s award-winning cellar and can attend several free workshops, lectures and demonstrations.

“We are offering a unique opportunity to experience top jazz entertainment in a relaxing setting,” notes Brian Cochran, event producer and organizer. “Attendees will also be able to learn more about wine and music and get the best of both,” he adds.

Born in Pasadena, California, Michael Haggins grew up with music. His uncle Al Duncan was a session drummer for Chess Records in the ’50s and ’60s where he recorded with legends Muddy Waters, Buddy Guy, Etta James and  Sonny Boy Williamson. Haggins studied communications at California State University, Long Beach and at one time worked editing television shows like The Cosby Show and Dr. Phil. In the early 2000s, the bassist started his own band and ramped up his music career. Haggins’ most recognized songs, “Daybreak” and “Be Thankful,” have been featured in the television series, Community.  His works have also been featured in the television series Raising Hope and Wake Up With Al and also a part of the soundtrack of the motion picture, Hall Pass.

Jason Weber has been playing the saxophone for over 30 years. A veteran of the Southern California’s music scene, Jason has 8 CDs under his belt as well as numerous guest appearances on other artists’ recordings. He has performed with jazz iconsGerald Albright, Everette Harp and Brian Auger to name a few. With an average of 300 shows per year, he is in great demand for recording sessions and for performing with other artists.

The Experience includes workshops highlighting wine pairing, wine making and a history of Rancho Cucamonga wines hosted by Mountain Vista Winery. Additionally, Rancho Cucamonga’s Guitar Center showcase an introductory class in Jazz Music 101. 

“What an inventive way to learn about music, says Tony Hayes, Guitar Center manager.” It is a perfect setting to inspire, learn and enjoy,” he adds.

Cochran, sees the limited seating and intimate setting as a new step in the way concerts and festivals are presented. “We want our audience to do more than just enjoy the music.  We want them to participate and leave with memories.”

Biz Help 101 and Phat X. Inc are leaders in business development. With over 20 years in event planning and branding, they lead the area in marketing and event management. Tickets are on sale and are limited. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.iejazzfestival.com.

By Angela M. Coggs

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— On Saturday, August 4, the Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation (YWE) hosted a free event at San Bernardino Valley College entitled, “My Sister’s Keeper.” It was a much needed, first of its kind in the Inland Empire, conference geared toward young women ages 13 to 19. The event took place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and included a light breakfast, a backpack giveaways and raffles prizes. Middle school, high school and college students filled the library viewing room not knowing what to expect with the highly charged topic.

“My Sister’s Keeper,” primarily focused on Sexual Assault & Domestic Violence, was the brain child of Tiffany James, Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation’s current President. James recognized the need to have an open conversation about two difficult topics that effect all women daily, even teenagers. At the start of the event attendees were informed that it was a safe place to express their feelings, ask questions and cry if needed. Additionally, there were therapist located throughout the room to be available for anyone triggered by the information presented and encouraged to practice self-care by exiting out of the room as needed. The environment was, first and foremost, a safe space, to open up, be vulnerable and it allowed the young women to let their guard down without judgement.

Due to the sensitive nature of the event, there were planned activities throughout the day woven within the agenda that provided a break from the heavy subject matter. Activities included ice breakers, personal introductions and hobbies and a fun, outside physical dance activity presented by Erika Wright and U-Jam. The activities allowed everyone to come together, build a rapport and meet new people. 

The event started with an enthusiastic and energetic welcome from Gwen Rodgers, CEO of Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation. Diane Rodriquez, President of San Bernardino Valley College, also welcomed the attendees to the campus and proclaimed SBVC as one of the best educational institutions in the Inland Empire.

California State Senator Connie Leyva passionately welcomed the young women to be open minded and take in the things that they would experience during the event. She fervently articulated her childhood, admittedly she lived in a bubble, however she pressed the importance of the event. She mentioned several bills pertaining to women, women’s rights and human trafficking. Another Leyva-sponsored bill signed into law last September eliminated the statute of limitation for rape and related crimes in California. 

Eloise Gómez Reyes, California’s 47th Assembly District, greeted the group of wide eyed students with a warm and sincere dialogue encouraging them to be open to the information they would experience during the event. She maintained the significance of the event and urged the attendees to listen and to ask as many questions as they wished. She was joined at the event by her husband, San Bernardino Community College District Trustee, Frank Reyes.

Vickye Poindexter-Wilson, a representative of Option House, a domestic violence organization that provides 24-hour crisis intervention and an emergency shelter revealed and shared her deep and personal story that described her horrendous teenage years and young adulthood. Her story began with trauma and she is now a story of triumph. She also informed the audience about the services provided to women, as well as men. Wilson, also CEO of House of Nibbanic Bliss, Inc., a private non-profit agency who works with victims of sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and domestic violence in Southern California, reminded the attendees to know their worth and not to allow anyone take their identity away.

The following include the topics and presenters who delicately and eloquently elucidated with such compassion and understanding topics that many shy away from:

• Emotional Abuse and Manipulation- Carmenita Gay (in-depth personal story of survival)
• Dating, Consent and Boundaries- Allison England (Implicit vs. Explicit) 
• San Bernardino District Attorney Office/ Bureau of Victim Services –Traci Rediford (speaking one’s truth)

The event ended with an informative panel of experts in their respective fields. In addition to the professionals on the panel, the attendees were privy to an honest dialogue with two male college students. It was obvious to everyone in the room that the words of the soon-to-be college freshman and sophomore students resonated with the young women on a personal level because they were in the same age range as some of the attendees. Hearing exactly how young men their age perceives how young women carry themselves. They encouraged the attendees to love themselves and believe in themselves because if predators recognize low self-esteem in them, they will likely become easy targets for unwanted and unsolicited negative attention.

The event also included entertainment from two local artists. Spoken word artist/poet, Jameka Johnson, performed a self-reflection selection entitled, “Mirrors.” The use of mirrors on the stage provided a symbolic backdrop to her powerful message It. was well received. Zey, a local singer and guitarist, performed two beautiful self-written songs that wowed the crowd. She was a modest, inspirational performer.

Although this was Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation’s first “My Sister’s Keeper” event, it will not be the last. The event was a huge success and the organization looks forward to adding the event to its calendar of events from now on. Seeing the smiles and appreciation in the faces of the attendees such as Ashley Dent, a 10^th grade student who attends Arroyo Valley High School, solidified the events future.

The event was sponsored by Arrowhead United Way and San Bernardino Valley College.  

YWE serves to strengthen the character of young women of high school age in the San Bernardino City region of the Inland Empire in Southern California. Young Women’s Empowerment was founded by CEO Gwendolyn Dowdy- Rodgers. The mission of our program is to empower these young women to achieve at their highest potential, particularly in education, and to instill in them a commitment to return to their community as leaders and mentors.

The Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation (YWE) is dedicated to strengthening the self-esteem, character, integrity and capacity of young women ages 12-21 so that they may achieve their highest potential. YWE accomplishes its purpose through strategic partnerships with other organizations. YWE is guided by ethics and principles which exhibit respect for cultural diversity.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes honored Ipyani Lockert of Fontana as the 2018 Man of the Year. The Man of the Year award recognizes the accomplishments and service of a distinguished man in the 47th Assembly District for their dedication to improving the lives of others.

Ipyani Lockert was selected as one of 25 finalists of exceptional men who were nominated for the 2018 Man of the Year award for Assembly District 47. Lockert, a long-time community advocate, motivator, entrepreneur and creative writer was selected to receive this year’s Man of the Year award based on his work with Motivational Realizations, California Partnership and other community organizations within the Inland Empire.

“Friday night we honored 25 finalists in the 47^th Assembly District who exemplify exceptional service to their community,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “It is an honor to recognize these successful and altruistic men who continue to be mentors to community members throughout the 47^thAssembly District and the Inland Empire. Congratulations to Ipyani Lockert for being selected as the 2018 Man of the Year.”

The selection of the Man of the Year started with over 80 men being nominated for this award. The select committee narrowed down the nominations to 25 finalists for 2018 Man of the Year who were honored at the KVCR Studios on Friday, August 24, 2018.

The 25 Finalists included:

Aaron Burgess, Sr.

Artist Gilbert

Bishop Gerald Barnes

Dr. Dev Gnanadev

Dwain Radden, Sr.

Gary Ferrer

Ipyani Lockert

Jack Long

James Tillman

Jeffrey McConnell

Jerry Almendarez

John Braxton Jr.

Leno Moreno

Lowell King

Lt. Mike Madden

Michael Garcia

Russell Degnan

Rev. Samuel Casey

Sandy Torres

Terry Abernathy

Thomas Rocha

Tom Rivera

Vin Ho

Walter Hawkins

Wilfred Marshall

To read more about any of the finalists, please visit the online event program at  https://issuu.com/ad47/docs/2018_edition

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—-SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Although he is technically retired, Mark Ikeda is as busy as ever, and still connected to San Bernardino Valley College. The Professor Emeritus of Biology retired in 2014, and in the years since, has been working with current SBVC students and faculty to classify and curate a collection of thousands of plant specimens, with some dating back to the 1920s and others now extinct. Together, they have been constructing a digital database that lists each specimen’s biology, taxonomy, site, and unique characteristics observed at the time of collection.

It’s been an “enchanting experience” working with the student volunteers and teaching them the process of putting together herbarium sheets, Ikeda said. He first discovered the biology department’s herbarium cabinets, holding thousands of historical and unclassified plant specimens, when he started teaching general biology, anatomy, and human physiology at SBVC in 1990. These specimens are an “irreplaceable resource,” he said, and Ikeda became determined to catalog the specimens in a digital database, so the information is known forever and can be used by researchers and students alike. 

Ikeda now works closely with Tatiana Vasquez, biology department chair and the manager of the collection, coming in two or three times a week to assist Vasquez and interested students with the cataloging. It can take two to three hours to identify each specimen, and sometimes, the fruits or flowers need to be dissected. The process involves collecting the specimens, identifying and classifying using large taxonomic keys, pairing organisms with similar species, then assembling the herbarium sheets.    

Herbarium sheets are a “lost art form,” Ikeda said, and involve displaying a pressed specimen with a label detailing its species information. SBVC is one of the few colleges in the United States that teaches students the art of plant pressing and assembling herbarium sheets, and the sheets and specimens are protected in herbarium cabinets.   

A postcard print showing Urbita Springs, a former lake in downtown San Bernardino where many of the specimens in SBVC’s collection were acquired (photo: Paul Bratulin).

Some of the specimens were collected so long ago they are now extinct, including one that grew in Urbita Springs, a lake that was once located where the Inland Center Mall was built. Volunteering to work with Ikeda and Vasquez is a fascinating way for students who are interested in botany to expand their skills, and those who want an in-depth study of the collection can sign up for BIO-206. They will learn about plant evolution, how to categorize organisms, and how putting together herbarium sheets can complement their career goals.

Over the last three years, Ikeda has cataloged 2,000 specimens. In recognition of his dedication, SBVC has named Ikeda Honored Retiree of the Year in 2017. Ikeda has no intention of slowing down, and that’s a good thing — there’s an additional cabinet in the biology department filled with 2,000 more historical and unclassified organisms, patiently waiting for someone to take a keen interest in their preservation and care.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— SAN BERNARDINO, CA —- Every year, San Bernardino High School (SBHS) holds the Miss Cardinal City pageant, which prepares participating students to represent the school and community for the school year.

Miss Cardinal City, along with the reigning Mr. Cardinal City, represents SBHS at school and community functions throughout the year and volunteers with a variety of charitable organizations to support San Bernardino residents. The ambassadors are named in honor of the city they represent. SBHS is also a chartered city, Cardinal City.

Miss Cardinal City contestants are judged in several on- and off-stage categories, including interviews, fitness wear, formalwear, grades, and school attendance.

The school is asking local businesses and individuals to help make the pageant a success by donating time and resources. To become a sponsor, contact pageant director and bilingual school outreach worker Jaime Rios at (909) 881-8217.

The Miss Cardinal City Pageant will be held Saturday, September 15 at Sturges Center for the Fine Arts located at 780 North E Street in San Bernardino. Tickets are available from Rios or any Miss Cardinal City contestant.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)- LOS ANGELES, CA— On Wednesday, August 8, Majestic Hearts and I Am… teamed up to host their First Annual back-to-school drive.

The recipients were inner-city youth of The Robert J. Irmas Activity Youth Center in South Los Angeles. The two organizations provided over 100 backpacks filled with school supplies to the attendees to prepare them for the upcoming school year. The students’ ages ranged from seven to 17 years old.

“Our goal was to supply 200 scholars with the tools needed to excel this school year. Unfortunately, many of the students started school the day of the backpack drive,” says Majestic Hearts CEO, Kanishia L. Jackson.

Jackson, alongside Majestic Hearts’ Vice President, Ricsyhelle Davis who’s also the Chief Visionary Officer of I Am…, opened the event by introducing themselves and their organizations followed by breathing exercises. These exercises revealed that nearly half the students meditated on a regular basis with immediate family.

“I was surprised to see how many children exercised meditation,” expressed Davis.

Davis educated the children on inflation, interest, taxes, meditation and savings. Many of the students were familiar with the topics. One 12-year-old, in particular, was knowledgeable of all five topics.

“I’ve never come across a 12–year-old who knew inflation, interest and taxes…,” exclaims Davis.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, up to 99 percent of domestic violence victims experience economic abuse…and finances are often cited as the biggest barrier to leaving an abusive relationship. With these statistics at hand, Majestic Hearts deemed it necessary to provide school supplies to students as they may be amongst the 99 percent.

“With economic abuse statistics being a dominant form of abuse, we find it highly important to support the students that may contribute to these stats by providing them with the tools needed to excel in school,” says the Majestic Hearts CEO. 

About Majestic Hearts:

Majestic Hearts seeks to be a refuge in the fight against domestic violence & sexual assault. We provide a safe-haven for victims, including programs that include counseling & mentoring, shelter & housing and education. Learn more at www.majestic-hearts.org

About I Am…

I Am… Provides pertinent information to disadvantaged communities via motivation and inspiration, byway of education, advancement opportunities and outreach services. Our mission is accomplished by focusing on the power of the voice “I AM.” Visit www.iamthatweb.org for more information.