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By Bo Tefu and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

The 37th NAACP California-Hawaii State Convention concluded on Sunday, Oct 27 following four days of discussions and workshops at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott. Bringing together civil rights leaders, policymakers, and advocates from California and Hawaii, the convention operated under the theme “All In.” The participants discussed critical issues impacting Black communities, including criminal justice reform, health equity, economic empowerment, education, environmental justice, and voting rights.

A Friday panel featuring NAACP Chairman Leon W. Russell and Regina Wilson, Executive Director of California Black Media, examined Project 2025, an initiative perceived as a potential threat to civil rights, healthcare access, and environmental protections. This session emphasized Project 2025’s projected impact on Black communities, noting that policies within the initiative could diminish gains made in civil and environmental rights over decades. Russell and Wilson highlighted the need for vigilant monitoring and community mobilization to address these challenges.

On Saturday the President’s Fireside Chat brought together NAACP President Derrick Johnson and CA/HI State Conference President Rick Callender, who discussed the urgency of voter engagement and community advocacy.

Guest speakers included Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA-43), who spoke at the Women in NAACP (WIN) Labor Luncheon about the intersection of labor rights and civil rights. California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond delivered remarks at the Leadership Dinner on education equity, focusing on policies to ensure all students have access to high-quality education.

Honors were given to longtime social justice advocate and former Assembly member Mike Davis for his work in community activism, while actor and activist Danny Glover and the Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown received the 2024 Legacy Hall of Fame Awards, recognizing their lifelong commitments to advancing civil rights.

The convention also offered practical workshops, including “What’s On Your Ballot?,” where coalition leaders provided analyses of California propositions, explaining their potential impacts on community rights and resources. The Voter Turnout Workshop provide background and encouraged participants to promote voter turnout through community-centered outreach strategies.

Sunday’s events closed with a Prayer and Memorial Breakfast honoring the contributions of past and current civil rights leaders.

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

As the November 5, 2024, General Election approaches, a number of Black candidates are running for positions in the United States Congress, the State Senate, and the State Assembly. If elected, they would collectively represent a larger proportion of elected officials at the state level than California’s Black population of about 6.5%.

Of the state’s 52 U.S. House of Representatives seats, three are currently held by Black representatives. In the State Senate, which comprises 40 seats and elects half of its members every two years, there are currently two Black Senators. In the Assembly, which has 80 seats up for election every two years, 10 Black Assembly members currently serve.

In this election, five Black candidates are running for Congress, four for State Senate, and 13 for Assembly.

Below are the Black candidates (in bold letters) running for Congress and the State Legislature:

Congressional Races 

In Congressional District 9 (Stockton), Kevin Lincoln (R), Mayor of Stockton, is challenging incumbent Josh Harder (D). Lincoln, a former Marine, is running on a platform focused on economic development, public safety, and government accountability. Harder, meanwhile, has focused on issues like healthcare access and immigration reform.

In Congressional District 12 (Oakland), Lateefah Simon (D), a nonprofit foundation president and civil rights advocate, is running to succeed Rep. Barbara Lee. Simon’s platform emphasizes civil rights, affordable housing, and economic reform. Her opponent, Jennifer Tran (D), a professor and chamber president, is focused on economic development, public safety and leveraging technology for government transparency?.

In Congressional District 37 (Southwest L.A.), incumbent Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D) is campaigning on criminal justice reform and expanding healthcare. Her opponent, Juan Rey, a train mechanic running with no party preference (NPP), advocates for populist solutions.

In Congressional District 43 (South L.A.), Maxine Waters (D) is running for re-election. Waters has long championed housing reform, civil rights, and economic justice. Her challenger, Steve Williams (R), a commercial real estate broker, is focused on reducing government regulation and fostering entrepreneurship.

California State Senate Races 

In State Senate District 7 (Oakland and Berkeley), Jovanka Beckles (D), an Alameda-Contra Costa (AC) Transit Director, is running on a platform centered on environmental justice, affordable housing, and public transportation reform. Her opponent, Jesse Arreguín (D), the Mayor of Berkeley, is focused on housing and economic development?.

In State Senate District 35 (Inglewood and South LA), Michelle Chambers (D), a former Compton City Councilmember, is campaigning on affordable housing, public safety reform, job creation, and healthcare access. She is facing Laura Richardson (D), a former U.S. Congresswoman and Assemblymember, who is focusing on public safety and moderate housing reform. Both candidates aim to replace Sen. Steve Bradford (D), who is term limited.

In State Senate District 39 (San Diego), Assemblymember and medical doctor Akilah Weber (D) is campaigning on healthcare equity, public safety, and job creation. She faces Bob Divine (R), a retired Navy Commander, who is advocating for fiscal restraint and law-and-order policies?. This seat is currently held by former Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins, who is term limited.

California State Assembly Races

In Assembly District 7 (Citrus Heights), Porsche Middleton (D), a city councilmember, is challenging incumbent Josh Hoover (R) on housing reform and local governance?.

In Assembly District 11 (Suisun City), incumbent Lori Wilson (D) is focused on healthcare access, economic development, and education. She is facing Dave Ennis (R), a civil engineer who emphasizes infrastructure improvement and reduced government regulation?.

In Assembly District 13 (Stockton), business owner Rhodesia Ransom (D) is campaigning on small business growth, educational reform, and economic justice. She faces Denise Aguilar Mendez (R), a non-profit director focused on conservative family values and reducing the size of government?. Aguilar Mendez has faced controversy including a guilty plea for welfare fraud.

In Assembly District 18 (Oakland), incumbent Mia Bonta (D) is running on housing reform and education. Her opponent, Andre Sandford, American Independent Party (AIP), advocates for fiscal responsibility and housing cost management?.

In Assembly District 55 (Ladera Heights), incumbent Isaac Bryan (D) is running on criminal justice reform, affordable housing, and economic equity. His opponent, Keith G. Cascio (R), is focused on fiscal conservatism and entrepreneurial growth?.

In Assembly District 57 (South Los Angeles), Sade Elhawary (D), a community activist and educator, is running on a platform focused on improving affordable housing, addressing homelessness and implementing criminal justice reforms. Her opponent, Efren Martinez (D), a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and small business owner, emphasizes economic development and public safety. Both candidates are competing to replace Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D), who is termed out of office.

In Assembly District 60 (Riverside), incumbent Corey Jackson (D) is campaigning on social justice and healthcare reform. His opponent, Ron Edwards (R), a small business owner, is focused on pro-business policies and reducing government regulation?.

In Assembly District 61 (Inglewood), incumbent Tina McKinnor (D) is focused on affordable housing and economic justice. She faces Alfonso Hernandez (R), a restaurateur who advocates for small business growth?.

In Assembly District 65 (Compton), incumbent Mike Gipson (D) is focusing on public safety and healthcare access, while his opponent, Lydia A. Gutierrez (R), is prioritizing educational reform?.

In Assembly District 72 (Huntington Beach), nonprofit executive Dom Jones (D) is running on business growth and community development, while incumbent Diane Dixon (R) is focused on fiscal responsibility and infrastructure improvements?.

In Assembly District 77 (San Diego), James Brown (R), an entrepreneur and financial advisor, is focusing on economic policy and job creation. His opponent, incumbent Tasha Boerner (D), is campaigning on healthcare access and environmental protection?.

In Assembly District 79 (San Diego), LaShae Sharp-Collins (D), an education leader, is focused on reproductive rights, educational equity, and affordable housing. She faces Colin Parent (D), a La Mesa City Councilmember, who emphasizes housing affordability, climate action, and transportation. This seat is currently held by Akilah Weber, who is running to represent State Senate District 39.

These Black candidates are running to address key issues such as housing, healthcare, public safety, reparations, and economic reform. The diversity of their platforms reflects California’s broad political spectrum, with some focusing on progressive reforms, while others advocate for a shift to more conservative policies.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) Board of Education is proud to announce that it has awarded the Outstanding Community Partner Award to No Kid Hungry, a nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood hunger and reducing food scarcity.

This award, presented at the Board’s Oct. 22 meeting, recognizes No Kid Hungry’s exceptional efforts in supporting SBCUSD’s students and families with access to nutritious meals.

Through its innovative programs and partnerships, No Kid Hungry has played a critical role in ensuring that children in the San Bernardino community have access to the meals they need to thrive, both inside and outside of the classroom. Their work has significantly reduced food insecurity, helping thousands of students stay focused and succeed academically.

“The impact No Kid Hungry has had on our students and families is profound,” said SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “Their commitment to ending childhood hunger aligns perfectly with our mission to provide every child with the resources they need to succeed. This award is a testament to their invaluable partnership.”

No Kid Hungry’s initiatives have supported SBCUSD in expanding access to meals, particularly Breakfast in the Classroom. By working closely with local schools and communities, they’ve ensured that children receive the healthy meals they need year-round.

“We are honored to partner with SBCUSD in the fight against childhood hunger,” said Daisy Munguia, Associate Director, No Kid Hungry California. “Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of students, ensuring that hunger is not a barrier to their education. Our partnership to bring Breakfast in the Classroom to San Bernardino City schools continues to have a significant impact on students’ health, well-being, and their readiness to come to school and learn.”

For more information on No Kid Hungry and SBCUSD’s ongoing efforts to reduce food insecurity, please contact Laura Rice at Lrice@strength.org.

The PAL Center in Muscoy was buzzing with excitement Saturday, October 19th as it hosted the 4th Annual I.E. Live Halloween Extravaganza. Visitors were captivated by a Haunted House featuring expertly crafted scares, drawing long lines throughout the facility. Kids enjoyed free pumpkins and a variety of activities, including face painting, jumpers, pumpkin carving, balloontwister, and a money-grab machine.

A highlight of the event was a performance by A Time 2 Dance, the Fontana-based studio owned by Lxa Arredondo and Jessica Rodriguez. The studio won the I.E. Live performance category at the last event, earning a free promotional video from the I.E. Live Team. The talented young dancers showcased their skills on the newly installed turf field at PAL Charter Academy. The studio offers classes for children aged 4 and up in ballet, jazz, and tap.

Parents appreciated an array of free giveaways, and the excitement continued with raffles throughout the day—one lucky attendee won a 55-inch Smart TV donated by Think Wise Credit!

Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. made a special appearance to distribute candy and present certificates from the County of San Bernardino to event Founder Dwaine Radden Sr. and Coordinator Jasmine Jefferson, recognizing their dedication to the community and youth. After touring the Haunted House, both Radden and Baca praised its impressive design, which provided an authentic scare experience.

Former PCA scholar and valedictorian Louie Gonzalez, now a nurse, was acknowledged for his contributions to the Haunted House, with Radden noting that this year’s attraction surpassed all expectations.

The Akoma Unity Center, led by Kimberly Calvin, brought 50 scholars and staff to join in the festivities, highlighting their commitment to uplifting historically excluded communities of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

Vendors thrived at the event, with Danielle Campbell of Crystal Lyn’s Catering reporting a sellout and already signing up for the upcoming Easter Egg Hunt on April 5th.

Notable attendees included San Bernardino County Board of Education member Dr. Gwen Dowdy-Rodgers and community member Tawnya Rhoades-Hensley, who engaged with attendees about her campaign for the San Bernardino Community College Trustee Board, Area 5.

Coordinator Jefferson emphasized the teamwork that made the event a success, stating that the joy on the faces of thousands of children and parents made all the effort worthwhile. The event continues to grow bigger and better each year!

For more details about this event and updates on future activities, be sure to check out their Instagram page @ielivemarketnite.

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— District Director Kimberly Mesen was pleased to attend the ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration of Be Unique Ice Cream, a mobile ice cream van that provides inclusive ice cream and treats for all abilities.

Be Unique Ice Cream was founded by a loving mother inspired by her amazing daughter, Deja. Deja is a young lady with Autism who adores unicorns, crafts, and seeing people have fun.

Thank you Be Unique Ice Cream for spreading joy one scoop at a time, and best wishes in this new endeavor!

RIVERSIDE, CA – “Step-Up To The Polls,” a special event designed to encourage voting-age African Americans in the Inland Empire to participate in the upcoming elections, will be held Saturday, October 19, at the Culver Center of the Arts in Downtown Riverside.

The event, from 2-5 p.m., will include presentations, step performances and on-site voter registration. It is sponsored by Voteless People is a Hopeless People Committee, a partnership between the Mu Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., local chapters of Divine 9 organizations, Riverside NAACP, BAPAC, and the Black Voice News.

“This is a critical moment for our country and our community. Our goal is to reacquaint African American voters in San Bernardino and Riverside counties with the history and significance of voting and to encourage their participation in the November election,” said Otis Greer, a member of the Mu Xi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and the committee’s co-chair with Paulette Brown-Hinds. “We also want to emphasize the importance of local elections (mayor, city council, and schools board) that are in many cases more significant for improving the daily lives of voters in this community.”

Brown-Hinds, founder of Voice Media Ventures and publisher of the Black Voice News, said the event will also serve as a reminder of the contributions made by African Americans in preserving voting rights.

“More than ever, we need to honor and celebrate our rights as voters and to make sure that the sacrifices that were made to guarantee those rights is not for naught,” Brown-Hinds said

Attendees are asked to register for this free event: https://stepuptothepolls.splashthat.com.

HIGHLAND, CA— — In a celebration of gaming and hospitality excellence, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel received top honors at the prestigious 2024 Global Gaming Awards. Presented at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, these awards are the gold standard of recognition in the industry, acknowledging excellence in gaming worldwide.

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians earned the distinguished award for “Responsible Business of the Year,” marking their fourth consecutive win in this category. For the first time, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino claimed the coveted title of “Property of the Year – North America,” standing out from hundreds of premier gaming properties nationwide. This dual triumph solidifies their legacy of excellence and social responsibility, demonstrating that success in gaming can go hand-in-hand with a commitment to community and responsible business practices.

The San Manuel Tribe’s “Responsible Business of the Year” award celebrates their unwavering dedication to outstanding business practices and their profound impact on the communities they serve. Since 2003, the Tribe has donated over $400 million to causes ranging from healthcare and education to social development and cultural preservation across Indian Country. In 2024 alone, San Manuel contributed $12.6 million to more than 200 philanthropic initiatives across the Inland Empire and beyond.

“Investing in our people and preserving our communities are foundational values at San Manuel,” said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. “We are inspired by our ancestors and motivated by our youth to operate responsibly so that future generations may thrive. We are grateful to our team and our loyal guests for this recognition, and we congratulate our fellow Global Gaming Awards honorees.”

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino’s achievement as “Property of the Year” highlights its position as North America’s premier gaming and entertainment destination. With over 14 million visitors annually, Yaamava’ stands as the second most-visited destination in California, offering an unparalleled experience with over 7,200 slot machines, 150 table games, and five high-limit rooms. Beyond the casino floor, guests indulge in world-class dining, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable performances, with more than 90 live shows a year, including top-tier entertainment that rivals any major venue.

“We are beyond thrilled to be recognized as the best casino property in North America,” said Kenji Hall, General Manager of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our incredible team. From our vibrant gaming floor to our one-of-a-kind hospitality offerings, we are committed to delivering an unmatched guest experience every day. This honor reflects the standard of excellence we strive to uphold.”

In addition to its win for “Property of the Year,” Yaamava’ earned second place for “Customer Loyalty Program of the Year” with its renowned Club Serrano, which also extends its benefits to Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, CA. Yaamava’s General Manager Kenji Hall was also honored by his peers, finishing in the top three for “American Executive of the Year.”

About the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians???

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is a federally recognized Indian tribe located on the San Manuel Indian Reservation near Highland, California. San Manuel exercises its inherent sovereign right of self-governance and provides essential services for its citizens by building infrastructure, maintaining civil services, and promoting social, economic, and cultural development. As the Indigenous people of the San Bernardino highlands, passes, valleys, mountains, and high deserts, the Serrano people of San Manuel have called this area home since time immemorial and are committed to remaining a productive partner in the San Bernardino region. For more information, visit http://www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov.

About Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel 

Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel is the only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star and Four-Star-rated and AAA Diamond-rated entertainment destination in the Inland Empire (IE), featuring a 17-floor hotel with spacious suites, an elevated pool deck, a Forbes Five-Star spa, and a state-of-the-art theater. Named 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Reader’s Choice for Best Casino outside of Las Vegas and the Best Casino Restaurant for The Pines Modern Steakhouse, Yaamava’ is located just 70 miles from downtown Los Angeles in Highland, CA. The Casino has more than 7,200 slots, five high-limit gaming rooms, luxury retail shops, a wide variety of award-winning dining options, and more than a dozen bars and lounges, including IE’s premiere sports bar, The 909 Food Hall. The San Manuel Entertainment Authority owns and operates Yaamava’ Resort & Casino.

For more information, visit www.yaamava.com or follow us on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, Threads and X (formally known as Twitter).

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Assembly Majority Leader Emerita Eloise Gómez Reyes concluded her 8th annual Senior Advocacy Week, held from September 23 to 27, during which her office visited over 30 senior centers and senior apartments across the 50th District, serving over 1,500 seniors by providing vital resources and services to older adults in the community. The event underscored the Assemblymember’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of the District’s aging population.

Throughout the week, Assemblymember Reyes and her team visited a wide range of locations, including The Magnolia at 9th, Bloomington Grove & Lillian Court, the Seniors VIP Club in Rancho Cucamonga, TELACU Rio Alto, Southpointe Senior Center, TELACU Tierra Serrano, TELACU Hacienda, Heritage Park Senior Apartments, and Grace Vargas Senior Center, along with several other senior living communities. Their extensive list of visits included TELACU La Paz, TELACU Sierra Vista, TELACU Monte Vista, Immaculate Conception Church, Bethel AME Church of Fontana, Dino Papavero Senior Center, John Piazza Apartments, Minerva Manor Apartments, Village at Sierra, Gardens at Sierra, Fountains at Sierra, The Plaza at Sierra, Cascade Sonrise Apartments, and Holiday Mission Commons. Additionally, they toured the National CORE Seniors Sewing Facility where seniors gather to learn sewing and create garments for themselves and for charity programs such as clothes for the homeless.

In partnership with organizations such as the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services, Wise and Healthy Aging, the California Department of Insurance, California Highway Patrol, Kings Warriors, Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, and the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, the Assemblymember’s office provided seniors with access to essential information and services, ranging from healthcare and housing resources to fraud prevention and safety tips.

“Senior Advocacy Week is one of the most meaningful weeks of the year for me and my team,” said Assemblymember Eloise Reyes. “It’s a chance for us to connect directly with the senior citizens in our community, ensuring they have access to the resources and services they need to live with dignity, independence, and security. Our seniors have contributed so much to our communities, and we must make sure they are supported.”

Throughout the week, seniors had presentations on Medicare and insurance services and received information on avoiding scams and fraud targeting older adults. Representatives from the California Highway Patrol provided driving safety information for seniors, while Wise and Healthy Aging facilitated workshops on wellness and healthcare.

Assemblymember Reyes also made it a point to listen to the concerns and needs of seniors across the District, discussing how the State Legislature can further assist older adults and advocate for their needs.

“We’re committed to ensuring that no senior in our district is left behind,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “The feedback we’ve received this week will continue to guide our legislative priorities as we work to create a brighter, safer future for our seniors.”

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Assemblymember Reyes for taking the time to visit us and for bringing such valuable resources,” said Robert McCall from Fontana. “Her dedication to ensuring that we have access to the support we need has made a real difference in our lives. Her visits remind us that we are not forgotten, and we truly appreciate her care and commitment to improving the quality of life for seniors in our community.”

“Thank you, Assemblymember Reyes, on everyone’s behalf,” said Francesca Silva from TELACU La Paz, “thank you so much for remembering us seniors, we really needed this and you deserve our gratitude.”

For more information on resources available to seniors or to learn more about future events, please contact Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes’ office at (909) 381-4100 or visit a50.asmdc.org

SACRAMENTO, CA— On Friday October 18th, Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (D-Colton) celebrated the signing of AB 2033, the EBT Access for Student Empowerment (EASE) Act, at a joint event hosted by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and San Bernardino Valley College. The event took place at the “Den Coffee Shop” located at San Bernardino Valley College. AB 2033 addresses the student hunger crisis faced on campuses across California by making it possible for students to use Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) across California’s three college systems. This legislation was co-sponsored by the Student Senate for the California Community Colleges, the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges, and uAspire, a nonprofit focused on improving the economic mobility of underrepresented students.

“I am grateful to Governor Newsom for signing AB 2033 into law and want to thank our robust coalition of supporters, including the Community College Chancellor’s Office for helping get this across the finish line,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “Student hunger is directly linked to academic achievement, and we know that food insecure students are more likely to report lower GPAs given the externalities they face. AB 2033 is a step forward in our efforts to end student food insecurity across California.”

“By accepting EBT, college campuses are doing their part to promote food security. If students do not have to worry about where they will get their next meal, they can learn and thrive in school. This should be an ultimate goal for all of us,” said Dr. Sonya Christian, Chancellor of the California Community Colleges. “I applaud Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes for authoring AB 2033 and I thank the Governor for signing this important legislation.”

“AB 2033 ensures that our colleges continue to be the open door of opportunity for students. By addressing food insecurity, we are helping students stay in school, graduate, and build better futures,” said Dr. Diana Z. Rodriguez, Chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District. “That investment doesn’t just pay off for them—it strengthens our economy and lifts up our entire community.”

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— Edward Ornelas Jr., President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and owner of the Inland Empire Business Journal, has been named a finalist in the famed 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards. Ornelas is honored in the Social Entrepreneur category for his remarkable leadership and vision in fostering business growth and development across the Inland Empire. The award ceremony will take place on November 21, 2024, at the Riverside Convention Center, celebrating the best of entrepreneurship throughout the region.

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards, often regarded as the “Oscars of Business” in the Inland Empire, recognizes the innovation, leadership, and impact of outstanding entrepreneurs across various sectors. Ornelas joins a select group of 34 finalists, each representing the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience that define the I.E. business community. The Social Entrepreneur category highlights individuals like Ornelas, whose work goes beyond profit to positively impact society.

In his role as President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, Ornelas has been a powerful advocate for the business community, connecting small businesses with essential resources and creating opportunities for growth. As the owner of the IE Business Journal, the only publication in the region dedicated solely to business news, Ornelas has provided a platform for local businesses to thrive by sharing their stories and promoting their success. His innovative, forward-thinking approach to marketing has earned him a reputation as a “visionary” and a “get-things-done” leader across both public and private sectors.

“I’m deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards. This nomination is a reflection of the incredible businesses and community leaders across the Inland Empire who inspire me every day. At the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, our mission is to empower businesses and foster economic growth, and this recognition highlights the collective efforts of our entire community. I’m excited for what the future holds as we continue to work together to make a lasting impact,” said Ornelas.

Other notable finalists for the 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards include leaders in healthcare innovation, green technology, and digital transformation. Each finalist, selected by a distinguished panel of judges, represents the best in their respective industries and contributes to the Inland Empire’s continued growth as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards is an annual event that brings together business leaders, community advocates, and entrepreneurs to celebrate the entrepreneurial excellence that drives the region’s economy. This year’s event promises to be a night of inspiration and recognition, showcasing the achievements of finalists like Ornelas, who continue to elevate the Inland Empire’s business landscape.

For more information about the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards and to see the full list of finalists, visit www.spiritawardsie.com.

About Edward Ornelas:

Edward Ornelas is the President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and owner of the IE Business Journal. Through his leadership of both organizations, Ornelas is dedicated to advancing the growth and success of businesses throughout the Inland Empire. To learn more about either organization, visit www.iechamber.org or www.iebizjournal.com.

About the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards:

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards honors the top entrepreneurs in the Inland Empire for their leadership, innovation, and impact on the community. Since its inception, the awards have recognized hundreds of entrepreneurs whose work drives the region’s economy and culture forward.