WSSN Stories

By Lou Coleman

That’s your problem…. always thinking and wanting it to be about you. Well I got news for you Boo, Boo… It’s not about you! It’s about God! As Pastor Rick Warren said in his [Purpose Driven Life Book] “The purpose of your life is greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness.” …..It’s far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. It’s not about you! You were born by God’s purpose and for His purpose. You are not the center of the universe. God is! I tell you, you would do good to remember that. It will save you a lot of headache and heartache. It’s not about you and it’s not about me. It’s about God! Stop your whining and grow up because the more you wallow in self-pity, the more pitiful you become. Self-absorbed, and self-seeking gets you nowhere. Jesus is the vine, God is the vinedresser, and you are a branch. [John 15:5]. Your life is in God’s hands and hangs by a thread of sovereign grace. God owns every soul. He made us and we belong to him by virtue of his being our Creator. Always thinking life is about you, your needs, your wants, and your desires. Well it’s not! Get over it!

I tell you, most of us are so deep into this mentality [me, myself and I] that we find it hard to even conceive of a different perspective. We live most of life focused on self—“It’s all about me.” But in reality, life is not about you, nor me; it’s about God. This world is God’s world, not yours. History is God’s story, not yours. Even your own life is not your own; you belong to God.  When you get a hold of this truth and begin to live for the glory of God, you will be doing what you were created to do. And you will become who you were created to be. This is what the God of the Bible says: Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the end of the earth, everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made. [Isaiah 43:6-7]. Whoever you are, wherever you’ve come from, I want you to know that your reason for existence on planet earth is the same. You have been created for the glory of God—to take all that you are and all that you have and use it to magnify Him.

You know the Apostle John tells us that John the Baptist “came as a witness to testify concerning the light, so that through him all men might believe.” John was the voice calling in the desert, “make straight the way for the Lord.” John was the one who came with the message, “repent for the kingdom of heaven is near.” John was the one who wore clothing made of camel’s hair and ate locusts and wild honey. His wasn’t a tasteful appearance or a tasteful diet. His life wasn’t about creature comforts; it was about calling lost and condemned creatures to repentance. Like his diet, his message often left a foul taste in the mouths of those who tasted it. People back in John’s day didn’t like hearing that just like they don’t today. We live in a world that would have us believe that we’re basically good people living basically good lives and God will accept us for who we are. It’s ironic that people would believe that about God in a world that would also have us believe that life is all about me. Getting what I want, when I want it, what makes me happy, because I deserve it? Truth…. Jesus says in [Matthew 16:24] “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” Don’t get any clearer than that! It’s not about you!

OkayAfrica, the premier destination for all things Africa, releases its inaugural “OkayAfrica’s 100 Women” list Monday in honor of Women’s History Month and its March editorial theme, “Black Girls Only.” With written and video features, the curated list pays tribute to 100 African women on the continent and in the Diaspora who are leaders in their fields. The feature story highlights the accomplishments and social and cultural impact of renowned figures like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Luvvie Ajayi, Issa Rae, Ruth Negga, Lupita Nyong’o, Iman and Caster Semenya and other major change agents making a difference around the globe. Included are Phiona Mutesi, chess prodigy from Uganda and subject of the recent Disney Queen of Katwe film; Farida Bedwei, information technology entrepreneur from Ghana, whose cloud software is used by over 100 microfinance companies in her nation; and Ilwad Elman, human rights and social activist from Somalia, who assist survivors of domestic violence and street children in Mogadishu, among many others.

“OkayAfrica’s 100 Women” was compiled by women of the OkayAfrica staff who, after months of research and intense debate, identified an influential group of women who are beacons in their respective industries—each the total personification of #blackgirlmagic. Representation by country and social impact were key factors in decision-making on the #okay100women.

“We proudly present 100 dope women who hail from the continent and the Diaspora—an amazing collective of visionaries, champions, pioneers and innovators,” said Antoinette Isama, OkayAfrica Associate Editor. “These brilliant women, our seestahs, are positively impacting our lives and the lives of others across African and around the world.”

“OkayAfrica’s 100 Women” can be found at http://www.okayafrica.com/100-women. The online magazine plans a series of events later in the year (or month) to honor the women.

With no other platform having yet recognized the accomplishments of such a diverse group of African women globally, OkayAfrica is at the forefront of bringing together a distinct group of women who are marking forward progress in their communities.

About OkayAfrica

OkayAfrica connects a global audience to the African continent through compelling content and high-profile cultural events. The leading media company of its kind, OkayAfrica is a multifaceted hub: a lifestyle brand, an online magazine, a bespoke content producer and an event producer. OkayAfrica fills the gap in representations of Africa by presenting a forward thinking, nuanced view of Africa today.

WASHINGTON – Dr. Ben S. Carson, Sr. was sworn in today as the 17th Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).   Vice President Mike Pence administered the oath of office with Secretary Carson’s wife Candy and granddaughter Tesora holding the bible.  Secretary Carson will now lead a abinet agency with approximately 8,000  employees and an annual budget totaling more than $40 billion.

Among his first actions in his new role, Secretary Carson plans an ambitious listening tour of select communities and HUD field offices around the country, beginning in his native Detroit.

“I am immensely grateful and deeply humbled to take on such an important role in service to the American people,” said Secretary Carson.  “Working directly with patients and their families for many years taught me that there is a deep relationship between health and housing. I learned that it’s difficult for a child to realize their dreams if he or she doesn’t have a proper place to live, and I’ve seen firsthand how poor housing conditions can rob a person of their potential. I am excited to roll up my sleeves and to get to work.”

For nearly 30 years, Secretary Carson served as Director of Pediatric Neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center, a position he assumed when he was just 33 years old, making him the youngest major division director in the hospital’s history.  Dr. Carson received dozens of honors and awards in recognition of his achievements including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. He is also a recipient of the Spingarn Medal, which is the highest honor bestowed by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Dr. Carson has written nine books, four of which were co-authored with Candy Carson, his wife of 41 years.  Together, they co-founded the Carson Scholars Fund, which celebrates young people of all backgrounds for exceptional academic and humanitarian accomplishments. The Fund has recognized more than 7,300 scholars, awarded more than seven million dollars in scholarships, and installed more than 150 Ben Carson Reading Rooms throughout the United States.

Born to a single mother with a 3rd grade education who worked multiple jobs to support their family, Secretary Carson was raised to love reading and education.  He graduated from Yale University and earned his M.D. from the University of Michigan Medical School.  He and his wife are the proud parents of three adult sons and three grandchildren.  Read Secretary Carson’s full biography.

Bryon Tillman

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Westside Story Newspaper would like to thank “Byron Tillman Transport,” for providing the transportation that delivered toys to many children doing the holidays. It is people like you that make the world a better place.  Thank You!

By Lue Dowdy

From Cali to Texas, Grim Reality Entertainment took to the road. Guess what? LUE Productions artist MACK PEPPERBOY joined the tour for the last three shows. The tour host  was Comedian, BRETT AS IS, so you know it went all the way up! With his Cali sound mixed with that New Orleans flavor, Mack Pepperboy delivered knockout performances in Riverside, North Hollywood, and Sacramento.

Finally leaking hits off his new project “IT’S THE PEPPERBOY,” like “GET IT,” “LITT,” and “ON THE BLOCK” had the audience rockin! Our team is extremely proud. We believe that Mack Pepperboy has a lot to offer to the entertainment game. Fans will be able to hear what he’s been cooking up in the booth at CHEF MUSIC STUDIOS, located in the Victorville under the production of CHEF GEO.

No wine is served before its time and it’s TIME. MERCH will be available soon! Please follow our artist on Facebook, Instagram, Soundcloud, Reverbnation, and our LUE Productions Reverberation page under MACK PEPPERBOY. We appreciate the support! Until next week L’z.

Lou Coleman

By Lou Coleman

You really do need to kneel before God your Maker and appeal to Him for His mercy and forgiveness; because no one born of God makes a practice of sinning. [1 John 3:9]. What’s wrong with you? Claiming to be born again when your life contradicts it.  I tell you there is nothing more damaging, nothing more hurtful as when a person who has been forgiven of sin continues to sin.  Dragging sin where ever you go. Dragging it into the Church. Dragging it into your home. Wearing it around your neck on display. You are really slipping into a lukewarm, careless, presumptuous frame of mind about your own sinfulness. It worries me that many of you are living double lives. I want you to know that Jesus despised the double-mindedness of the religious rulers of His day. In [Matthew 23:27–28], He said, “Woe to you…….you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which looks beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.”Repent before it’s too late!  Paul informs us that “these times of [past] ignorance God has overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent” [Acts 17:30]. I tell you to live a double life is a discredit to God. Repent before it’s too late! Christianity is not a sinning-repenting religion. It’s a victorious religion. There should be a place where you quit your sinning. Shame on you!

I want you to know that Sodom and Gomorrah were two of the most reprehensible cities known to man.  They were so filled with sin that God could no longer hold back His wrath.  He sent two angels to warn Lot and his family to leave before the destruction of the cities.  “The angels told Lot and his family, “Escape for your life.  Do not look back or stop anywhere in the valley.  Escape to the hills, lest you be swept away.” [Genesis 19:17].  Lot understood and obeyed.  He took his wife and daughters out of the city.  He tried to get his future son-in-laws to flee too, but they thought he was joking.  When they were out of the city, Lot’s wife could not resist the temptation to sin and look back.  Immediately “…she became a pillar of salt.” [Genesis 19:26] Don’t be a fool! Warning comes before destruction. Lot’s wife lost her life because she couldn’t let go of sin.  Scripture is clear: Any compromise with the world, whether in doctrine, morals, or relationships, has disastrous consequences. You better know that you know.  The godly reaction to sin is to recognize it from Scripture, to mourn over it, and to confess it without excuse to the God of mercy. Choose your position – whom will you follow?

“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit….” [Ephesians 5:8-18]

By John Coleman

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- The San Bernardino County Association of African American Employees, (SBCAAAE) held their 24th Annual Black History Month & Scholarship Recognition Ceremony on February 25 at the Victoria Gardens
Cultural Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

In her program welcome, SBCAAAE President, Phyllis K Morris, reminds that this county is the largest and among the fastest growing and diversifying, that SBCAAAE encourages & supports the professional & personal development of its members,   seeks opportunities to celebrate and share our culture, and recognizes that our expression in Art serves as a platform for educating us & others for sharing culture, advocating for justice, for equality, & building a better future.

Through the arts, African Americans have contributed & influenced American culture on many levels.    Today’s event honors six African Americans, artists whose body of work or promise is exceptional, & commitment is amazing.

By Naomi K. Bonman

Chris’ little sister from Everybody Hates Chris, which was played by Imani Hakim, is all grown up and is taking on more roles in movies that are making an impact in the life of millennials.

Hakim plays the love interest of Trevor Jackson in the upcoming Netflix film, Burning Sands, which premieres on Friday, March 10.

Burning Sands takes you on a raw, voyeuristic journey of fraternity pledging through the eyes of one favored pledgee, who is torn between honoring a code of silence or standing up against the intensifying violence of underground hazing. Led by a breakthrough performance by Trevor Jackson, director Gerard McMurray’s feature directorial debut brings an emotional honesty to the classic tale of “rites of passage” and the complicated bonds of brotherhood.

The film also stars ?Alfre Woodard, Steve Harris, Tosin Cole, DeRon Horton, Trevante Rhodes, Christian Robinson, Rotimi, Octavius Johnson, Malik Bazille, Mitchell Edwards, Serayah, and Nafessa Williams.

I recently caught up with the rising actress where she chatted on her experience in working with Trevor and the rest of cast and why the film is a must-see, especially for college students across the globe. Check out the interview and trailer below:

Describe your role in the film ‘Burning Sands’?

I play Rochon, the girlfriend of Zurich [played by Trevor Jackson]. Rochon is a strong and independent young queen who knows where she’s going in life. Rochon is also a fashion major at the college.

How was it working alongside Trevor Jackson?

The best! What really excites me about this film is that as a cast we are all young and up and coming, so being a part of something like this was probably one of the best experiences in my life. Everyone’s chemistry was off the chain. We all bonded out there in Virginia. We would all want to hang out and it felt like we were actually at college or summer camp. Working with Trevor and the other cast mates was amazing! We still have a group chat [we all talk on]; we just love each other so much!

What can viewers except from watching the film?

I think viewers can except reality, truth, and greatness. We are really shining the light and pulling the covers back on hazing. I didn’t even know how severe and intense this topic was until I started reading the script. I didn’t know that they do all the stuff that they do. I think that the [viewers] will have a [better] understanding of fraternity, sorority, and Greek life behind closed doors. I’m pretty sure a lot of college students will be watching it since it is a college film, but hopefully some of the stuff that happens behind closed doors will be changed and that it will encourage others to spread awareness.

What is next for you?

I have a couple movies that are coming out later this year and next year. No details or release date yet.

When does the Burning Sands release on Netflix?

Burning Sands comes out on March 10 on Netflix. 

Follow Imani Hakim:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/RealImaniHakim

Twitter: https://twitter.com/anakih1

Snapchat: @Imani_Hakim

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheOfficialImanihakim

By Lue Dowdy

Save the date for Thursday, March 30th, when LUE PRODUCTIONS present E.A.A.G., an entertainment/talk show, hosted by Ms. Lue

Come be a part of our live audience! We will have  amazing talent from all over, as our team of actors/comics bring the funnies. You will also get to see aspiring models rip the runway while having fun. The show will be filmed by Robert of Ilondon Fog Studio, former broadcaster for FOX and Paramount Pictures. The show will be held at Pro Center Barber Shop located at 626 N. Sierra Way in San Bernardino.

Seating is limited seating to the first 50 seats available. Please inbox to RSVP for your free seat. The first taping will be at 8 p.m. featuring Pop Locker Tydee Bone and Hip-Hop dancer BJ. The special guests will be CEO of S.E.S. (Something Extra Special Entertainment, Janet Kirtley; and featured model Dee Dela Cruz. The second taping will be at 9 p.m. and will fature radio personality 5 Cent and model Krystal Yvonne.

Please like us on Facebook under ‘LueProductions’. Until Next weel L’z! View the  event page at www.facebook.com/events/263559784066785.

Publisher’s Commentary by Wallace J. Allen

What do you think about owning a Credit Union? Will you please take the time to respond to the short survey on page three and submit as requested…

Here is what I think…

Credit Unions are owned by their members. Credit Unions are designed to reward their members as opposed to paying dividends to investors. Credit Unions provide regular/normal/customary/traditional banking services for individual, as well as business members. Credit Unions are conveniently accessible via brick and mortar sites, as well as via the internet. 

There are some special services that should be available in our Credit Union; for instance, our churches should be able to access loans. Our small businesses should be able to access loans. Individuals should be able to access auto and home loans. Obviously, checking and savings accounts must be part of the package. All this must be conveniently available at reasonable rates! 

The Credit Union should have Directors that are known members of our community. The Credit Union should run as lean and efficient as possible so that the emphasis is on customer service. Employees and contractors for the Credit Union should be members of our community.

A mission of the Credit Union should be to serve the members and community as an economic support and development resource.