WSSN Stories

Lou Coleman-Yeboah

By Lou Coleman-Yeboah

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—“Because warning comes before destruction and you have been warned, says the Lord!” 

I want you to know that when Noah and Lot warned their respective people of God’s coming judgment and destruction, the people would not listen. Instead they treated Noah and Lot as “extremists.” Then the destruction that did come found the people unprepared.  As in the days of Noah and Lot, the soon return of the Lord will be a snare unto the people who do not heed the warning and give their lives to Christ. [Luke 17:26-30]. I tell you, this world is hearing and seeing the last warning message from God. [Joel 3:14]. PLEASE HEED GOD’S – FINAL WARNING AND CALL OF MERCY!

You see, throughout the Bible God has always given mankind a chance to repent. He would send a warning through one of His messengers. God is still sending warnings. “He, who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches.”

I want you to know that in [Revelation 7] God suddenly holds up the plagues of the Day of the Lord, UNTIL certain events happen — the sealing of the 144,000 and the emergence of the Laodicean Church. He has held events back before. Yet he says that, when HIS time comes, he will make a speedy work in the end time and cut his work short.

In [Matthew 24:32-35] Jesus said that when we see world events now occurring, we are to KNOW that this END is very near — even at the doors. Yet of the day and hour [verse 36] we cannot know. Yet when it strikes it will strike suddenly, unexpectedly, like a trap that springs shut on a hapless rat without warning.

So the question is, has ANYTHING changed in that warning? And the answer is, absolutely NOT! If anything, we should be able to SEE how much CLOSER we are to these things being fulfilled, and fulfilled SUDDENLY at ANY time!

So the message TODAY for God’s people and nations, is to WAKE UP! Be REMINDED and become AWARE of these things which will soon affect every single one of us! Time will NOT just “continue on” the way it has, so says the Word of God.

“… And even AS it begins to happen, God is faithful, and His Word says that someone will SEE [Ezekiel 33:3] the sword coming upon the land, and this someone is commanded to give WARNING or indeed lose his own life also!”

Therefore hear, ye nations, and know, O congregation, what is among you. [Jeremiah 6: 18].

 The Trumpet is sounding……who will hear?

“I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set beore you life and death, blessing anf cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live…” [Deuteronomy 30:19].

EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— LOS ANGELES, CA —- Band of Vices Art Gallery is thrilled to announce Process and Materials, the new solo exhibition by artist Sharon Louise Barnes. Featuring over a dozen new abstract sculptures and multimedia works on canvas, the salvaged objects that comprise this new body of work become Barnes’ vehicle to explore the subjects of marginalization, social class and willpower, while the process of creating them connects her to her heritage as an African American. Process and Materials will be on view from July 6 to August 4, 2018, with an Opening Reception on July 6 from 6pm to 9pm. Barnes will hold an Artist Talk at the gallery on July 28, 2018 at 4 p.m.

Process and materials are essential elements of any artists’ practice, whether that be painting on canvas or creating sculpture. Over the course of her creative career, which has included everything from music to visual art, Barnes has turned the creation of her sculptures into an alchemical practice that allows her to find hope and transformation in the struggle to work with rough and salvaged materials.

“By using industrial materials that might normally be held in a laborer’s hands, as well as an array of discarded materials that can be found on city streets, my abstract works are both conceptual and aesthetic,” explains Barnes. “They look outward into society, opening dialogs about marginalization, about how we determine value, and the potency of change. They also speak to my African American heritage where people built something from very little or nothing, and demonstrated the power to transform one’s condition through the exercise of will.”

The recurring motif of cloud and tree-like formations made of interwoven strips of roofing paper appears in suspended sculpture pieces like “She Wove Constellations Through Her Dreadlocks” and “Humming in the Night.” “Viewpoints: A Verité” juxtapose found photo transfers with abstract acrylic and mixed media backgrounds. The visceral works are a coalescence of passions she’s been exploring as an artist for almost two decades.

“On this creative path, nothing has been more remarkable in my memory than when my fifth grade teacher gave me the tools of perspective drawing to create the illusion of reality, or when my African American Art History professor, renowned artist Dr. Samella Lewis, exposed me to the visual artists of the Black Arts Movement,” says Barnes. “These instances truly changed my life because they brought me to understand both the sheer magic of art and its unrestrained power to communicate.”

Band of Vices is located at 5376 W. Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90016.

OPENING RECEPTION

July 6, 2018 | 6pm – 9pm

ARTIST TALK

July 28, 2018 | 4pm

ON VIEW

July 6, 2018 – August 4, 2018

BAND OF VICES

5376 W. Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90016

About Sharon Barnes

Sharon Barnes is an American artist of African American and Cape Verdean descent, who has been exhibiting professionally since the turn of the millennium.

Barnes was inspired to create visual art as a young college student by her art history professor, Dr. Samella Lewis, who introduced her to the artists of the Black Arts Movement. In addition to her art studies, Ms. Barnes earned a B.A. in Communications with an emphasis in video and film. Her work has been exhibited in major cities of the United States and in the Republic of Panama, including the California African American Museum, Los Angeles Municipal Gallery at Barnsdall, Aqua Art Miama and the Arco Chato in Panama.

About Band of Vices

Band of Vices Art Gallery, one of the leading spaces in the emerging West Adams arts district, was founded in 2015 by professional actor and art curator Terrell Tilford. His first gallery, Tilford Art Group (1999-2010) was originally in Mid-City, Los Angeles. Tilford rebranded the gallery as Band of Vices to concentrate programming on emerging and mid-career artists whose work gives voice to the voiceless. Recognizing the importance of cultivating future leaders, curators, artists, and civic patrons, Band of Vices has partnered with the Los Angeles Promise Funds’ LA Promise Charter School of South Central Los Angeles to ensure that every young scholar and instructing leader has the opportunity to be exposed to the full diversity of the international art world.  

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— Several notable celebrities, community leaders and entertainers descended on the city of New Orleans once again to attend the 15th Annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards, held today at the Ritz Carlton, New Orleans. They were joined by attendees from across that nation who converged to recognize this year’s recipients of the distinguished awards, including popular Political Commentator Symone Sanders, renown actress/activist Sheryl Lee Ralph, Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant and next generation McDonald’s Owner/Operator Monique Vann-Brown. Additionally, college philanthropist Tishauna Wilson was recognized alongside this lineup to receive a $10,000 McDonald’s HBCU Forward Scholarship, facilitated by Thurgood Marshall College Fund.

McDonald’s 365Black Awards take place annually to honor outstanding individuals who are committed to making positive contributions that strengthen the African-American community. The program launched in 2003 as an extension of the company’s 365Black platform, created to celebrate the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year-round. Held in conjunction with ESSENCE Festival™ presented by Coca-Cola®, the event was hosted by actress Essence Atkins.

R&B singer Dave Hollister gave a dynamic performance during the awards. Presenters included actor and comedian Lil Rel Howery, actor Larenz Tate, actress Bresha Webb, media personality Tai Beauchamp and McDonald’s Owner/Operator Tanya Holliday. Award-winning gospel artists Fred Hammond and JJ Hairston also made appearances.

TV personality and model Cynthia Bailey brought her large social media following along to the event, posting live from the ceremony. Other celebrity attendees included actor Lance Gross, award-winning talk show host, Loni Love and R&B singer Raheem DeVaughn, among others.

 “It was a privilege to witness and take part in the celebration of our outstanding female honorees. Their accomplishments reflect the tenets of our 365Black platform,” said Kenny Mitchell, McDonald’s U.S. Vice President of Brand Marketing & Content. “Our 15 year-long partnership with ESSENCE and continuation of the 365Black Awards affirms our commitment to celebrating everyday people who are doing extraordinary things to positively move Black Forward.”

Those who were unable to attend the ceremony can follow @365Black on Twitter for commentary on the awards and join the conversation on all social platforms using #365BlackAwards.

To view more photos, please click here. 

JT Turner

By Lue Dowdy

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— Laughter in the High Desert is What it Do! Actor and Comedian J.T. Turner is a true talent!

I had the pleasure of meeting J.T. while supporting another comic friend at a show. From the moment he walked on stage, I was cracking up and so was the audience. His set up and delivery seems so effortless.

J.T. has opened up for some of the greats such as: Steve Harvey, Joe Torry, Tommy Davison, Renaldo Ray, Shang, G-Thang and many more. Having hosting skills, he’s hosted for 112, Boys II Men, E-40 and Chris Brown concerts, as well as community, corporate and private events.

Comedian J.T. Turner has the comedy game on lock in the High Desert. Every Thursday and Friday you can relax at the Green Tree in Victorville and get your comic fill with him as your host and other talented comics on the line-up. All the comics have either been on BET’s Comic View, Comedy Central and have performed at the IMPROV, Laugh Factory, Ice House and several other popular venues.

This year he will serve as LUE Productions event host on Sunday, August 26 for their Annual BBW/Plus Size Model Competition bringing awareness to domestic violence. This comedian’s star is rising higher and higher. His TV credits include: “Laughs” on the FOX Network and the movie “Cheaper to Keep Her” (2017).  Follow him!

Catch me next week L’s!

Photo Credit: Earl Gibson

By Barbara James

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— On Monday, July 2, we laid to rest Joseph Jackson, the patriarch and former manager of one the most talented and legendary families of all times, the Jackson’s. His controversial legacy by some, shall remain interfused with his epithet being “an extremely harsh disciplinarian, womanizer and also perhaps engaging with mercenary motives.”  Whether these statements are true or false, the facts that can be unanimously agreed upon is the legendary Joe Jackson successfully raised and produced one of the most prominently talented musical families throughout history. 

Janet Jackson lovingly stated prior to the funeral services, “Joseph, my incredible Father, drove us all to be the best that we can be and for that I am truly grateful.”

I had many red carpet moments with Joseph Jackson throughout the years, and they will remain as fond memories for our entire staff. Mr. Jackson, (though he insisted upon being called Joe), was always an extremely jovial, flamboyant and humorous individual throughout each interview. His eyes would instantly light up when asked questions regarding his children and grandchildren. Joseph Jackson embraced the ‘Black Media’ with candor and endearment, always reminding us that only we, can tell the true stories of our families and communities in which we live and strive daily. Jackson entertained us with sharing his most cherished thoughts and sentiments each time we met. 

Saturday, March 24, would probably be one of the last Red Carpet events for the 89 year old music icon. Joseph Jackson graced the 2018 Stellar Awards Red Carpet at the Orleans Casino in Las Vegas speaking with HDIV News Editor, Barbara James. Jackson was filled with excitement and humor as always when Barbara James asked,

“Why did you choose to attend one of the greatest gospel music events this evening?” Mr. Jackson smiling profusely replied, “I love gospel music. “

“It is the music that I grew up with and have thoroughly enjoyed over and above all music.” He further commented, “The Gospel Stellar Awards is the only event that you will leave, not feeling the same way that you came.”

“It is one of the most inspiring musical events ever.”

He then proceeded to give her a strong embrace, as he continued towards the backdrop for perhaps one of his last photo opportunities.  

LaToya Jackson delivered a loving tribute to him. “I will always love you!” “You gave us strength, you made us one of the most famous families in the world. I am extremely appreciative of that, I will never forget our moments together and how you told me how much you cared.” 

Michael Jackson credited his father with making sure his children weren’t cheated by industry vultures, and noted that unlike some child stars, his parents didn’t take their children’s money to enrich themselves.

“I’d say we’re among a fortunate few artists who walked away from a childhood in the business with anything substantial — money, real estate, other investments. My father set all these up for us,” Jackson wrote in his 1988 autobiography. “But still I don’t know him, and that’s sad for a son who hungers to understand his own father. He’s still a mystery to me and may always be one.”

Joe Jackson has been buried in the same Southern California cemetery as his late son Michael. He was laid to rest on Monday in a private ceremony at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale.

Lou Coleman-Yeboah

By Lou Coleman-Yeboah

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— Thus saith the Lord; what right have you to declare My statutes, or take My covenant in your mouth, seeing you hate instruction and cast My word behind you? You give your mouth to evil, and your tongue frames deceit. You sit and speak against your brother, you slander your own mother’s son. These things you have done, and I kept silent; you thought that I was altogether like you; but I will rebuke you and set them in order before your eyes. [Psalms 50].

Now consider this, you who have forgotten Me, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. Turn from your wicked ways [2 Chronicles 7:14] while it is yet day and there is still time to repent, otherwise you will feel my wrath to the uttermost! On the outside you look righteous to people, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. You snake, you offspring of vipers, how will you escape being condemned to hell? [Matthew 23:25-39]. Be zealous and repent NOW and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place. [Revelation 2:5].

I want you to know that the Word of God has very bad news for the wicked. God is angry with the wicked every day. If you do not turn back, He will sharpen His sword; He bends His bow and makes it ready. He also prepares for Himself instruments of death; He makes His arrows into fiery shafts.  [Psalm 7: 11-13].  I tell you, you are just a step away from disaster! You best repent and repent NOW!

“I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you, life and death… therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live… [Deuteronomy 30:19].

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—SACRAMENTO, CA— With the signing of the 2018-19 State Budget by Governor Brown, Career Technical Education (CTE) programs in the San Bernardino Community College District received $1 million to help launch the Advanced Manufacturing Futures Initiative. The partnership between Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D- San Bernardino), and the San Bernardino Community College District will help expand hands-on job training at San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) to prepare students for the Inland Empire’s growing demand of qualified manufacturing and production sector workers.

“We have seen substantial increases in both demand and popularity for jobs in the manufacturing and production sector and I am elated to be partnering with San Bernardino Community College District to help provide training for our next generation of workers,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “In the Inland Empire alone, there are 17,500+ new manufacturing and production jobs projected by 2024 that will need skilled and trained workers and this program is just the start to meet those needs.” 

The initiative will provide students with modernized training in in-demand jobs that include electricians, welders, machinists, engineering technicians, chemical plant and system operators and mechanical drafters, among others. The current career options at SBVC will be enhanced by integrating the newest and state-of-the-art equipment, tools and software to aid in curricula for industry-recognized certificates and associate degrees that lead to “Pathway Occupations” that constitute manager and supervisorial roles that are offered through universities in the form of bachelor’s degrees.

“Thanks to Assemblymember Eloise Gomez Reyes’ tireless leadership to elevate job training as a state budget priority, today our region took a major step forward in building a stronger workforce and stronger economy,” said San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Bruce Baron. “San Bernardino Valley College is now better positioned to provide students with leading-edge courses, and better positioned to support local businesses with a pipeline of workers who are job-ready and armed with in-demand skills.” 

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— SACRAMENTO, CA— Earlier this month, it was announced that the San Bernardino County Fire Department was being awarded $450,000 to purchase a new Type III Wildland Fire Engine. The decision to award the county fire department extra money to purchase the fire engine came from budget negotiations between Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (D-San Bernardino), the State Assembly and Governor Brown’s administration. 

The San Bernardino County Fire District, Serving the Cities of San Bernardino and Grand Terrace was in need to replace their aging Brush Engines. Brush Engines are first response units to San Bernardino and Grand Terrace as well as first response units to the State Responsibility Area’s (SRA) to protect life and infrastructure.

“We have seen a marked increase in the length as well as severity of our state’s fire season and our fire departments and first responders need to be equipped correctly and ready to respond at a moment’s notice,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “This Type III Fire Engine is one of the foundational pieces of our fire response infrastructure and ensures that our fire department can adequately respond when the need arises and that they can continue to serve the people of the 47^th Assembly District.”

San Bernardino, Grand Terrace and the surrounding cities and areas of the 47^th Assembly District are listed by Cal Fire as “Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA (Local Response Areas)”. Brush engines or Type III Engines are specialized units that have a short wheel-base and high clearance to operate in off road Areas such as the Santa Ana River, Waterman Canyon, the wildland urban interface in Grand Terrace, San Bernardino and the SRA (State Responsibility Area’s). These units are also used in the states Master Mutual Aid Program.

Kikkoman

By Lue Dowdy

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— Kikkoman, an unsigned rap artist out of Orlando, Florida, is WHAT IT DO! So, check it out folks!

I was totally shocked when my mother’s auntie told me that my little wousin was an upcoming rapper based out of Orlando. I was like “Nah, really?” and they were like, “Really!” So, I looked Kikkoman and found it be the truth. My little cousin got bars for days. I’m so excited and happy that he’s pursuing his dreams.

Kikkoman will be performing this coming Friday, July 6, right here in San Bernardino at the Re-Up Festival. The event is featuring top artist such as: Chief Keef, Casey Veggies, Audio Push, Lil Debbie, Uno the Activist and many more. Tickets can be purchased online. Check out Kikkoman’s bio below:

Kikkoman is an Orlando raised rapper and song writer with a diverse style to reflect his diverse roots. This Black and Japanese artist has a unique sound that is able to enhance any generation of music, whether it be hip-hop, dirty south, dubstep, commercial or rock. With his lyrical flow and conscience soul, Kikkoman can turn any song into his own.

He was born in Missouri in the 90’s. Briefly living in California and growing up in Florida has made him a music lover on all levels. Listening to entertainers which include DJ Quick, 50 Cent, 2Pac, Biggie, Bone Thugs and various other influential rappers, they have inspired him to take it to the next level.

Kikkoman has developed his own flavor. He made sure to focus on mixing and mastering a unique sound that no one in the music industry contains by adding a different twist. Kikkoman’s voice, marketable look and a stage presence will have you out your seats. He is something this industry desperately needs. So, let’s give the people what they’re waiting for! Kikkoman is Orlando’s next big Star.

Until next week! #Lueproductions