Happily Divorced And After

Lou Coleman

By Lou Coleman

Pretentious people: Ugh…  Always want to be seen to show out; can’t function unless they stand out. Always got to be on the program; can’t serve in the background. Always got to be about them.  Then want to have the audacity to get mad when you say something.  Listen, Jesus warned against this type of hypocrisy in Matthew 6:1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. You know in the parable Matt 13:26 no one noticed the problem until the wheat began to reproduce, forming heads prior to the harvest. I want you to know that the key difference between wheat and weeds is not in what they do, but in what they are? Who am I talking too? Because pretentious people, act saved but are active sinners. How can you hold a position in God’s houses (the church) and yet the devil runs rapid in your own house? Paul says in Acts 17:22-23…..You need a word that is revelatory and relevant.   Real people don’t come to church to be confused. Real people come to church to get a practical word and to come to understand what they don’t’ understand. I want you to know that the days of coming to church and not understanding the Word is over. Why sit in church just to die on the vine? This thing is personal.

Everything we are is because of God. Get over yourself! It’s not about you! Phil 2:3 says, “don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble…” Attitude is everything.  As 1Peter 5:6 says, “… humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you.”  I bet your Pastor would just assume you not tell anyone where you went to church! It brings a reproach upon every saint of God who does try to live for Jesus.  Yet, I thank God that there is a place of repentance for those of us who are guilty of the backward look today. If you are just pretending to be saved, please be aware that you are not fooling the Lord! He knows your heart and will judge you. This was condemned by Jesus in Luke 9:62. This trend in the church today, professing Christians that want to dress, act, walk and talk like the world. People who say they know Jesus, but act like the unsaved around them. What you are doing is playing around with sin and treating sin too lightly! My friend, sin is a deceiver, it is a killer and it is dangerous! It must be dealt with early and radically. Do not let it get a foothold in your life, but root it out, whatever the cost or the pain, Eph. 4:27; Matt. 5:27-30.

Until we meet again…  Jesus’ last public message before He dies on the cross.  It is stunning…a scathing denunciation of false religion and hypocrisy.  Jesus is speaking to three groups of people…  a multitude; the disciples and the scribes and Pharisees. Talk about name calling, Jesus holds nothing back!  Bold and courageous, He calls them fools, snakes, vipers, blind guides, and 7 different times He calls them hypocrites.  They are wearing masks, and He pulls them off.  They come to church appearing to be one thing, but at home they are entirely different.  They are religious play actors.  Jesus demanded sincerity and reality.  I want you to know that you may walk in sin for years, but one day judgment will surely come. One day, time will run out! There will be no more opportunities and no more calls to repentance, Gen. 6:3. There will be nothing but judgment swift and sure! I challenge you to flee the wrath of God! There is but one shelter for the soul, Romans 5:6-9… Get Over Yourself! It’s not about you!

ONTARIO, CA- The 100 Black Men of the Inland Empire, Inc. will hold its Inaugural Gala on Saturday, October 10 at the Ontario Double Tree Hotel from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. During this event, the 100 Black Men will honor exceptional black professionals throughout the Inland Empire who have made significant contributions in their fields.

The following professionals will be honored at the event: Admiral Edward Moore, Jr. (Ret.), for his historic contributions to the United States Navy rising to the rank of Vice Admiral as an African American; Judge Richard T. Fields, for his historic contributions as the first African American presiding judge in Riverside County; and Dr. Ernest Levister, M.D., for his significant contributions in the field of medicine in the Inland Empire and to the formation of the J. W. Vines Medical Society.

Tickets can be purchased at www.100bBlackMenIE.com. The 100 Black Men of the Inland Empire, a chapter of the 100 Black Men of America, is committed to intellectual development of youth and the economic empowerment of the African American community based on the following precepts: respect for family, spirituality, justice and integrity.

Dr. Tim Hougen, Jennifer Pacheco, DBH Director CaSonya Thomas, Douglas Fazekas, Imo Momoh.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- The Board of Supervisors was recently recognized and commended the County Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) for winning six Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo). The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that enhance services for residents.

NACo recognized the following DBH projects in their respective categories: Mountain Breeze Villas in Community & Economic Development; Remote Group Supervision for Rural Intern Placements in the Employment and Training for County Residents; Culture Specific Subcommittees in Civic Education and Public Information; Child and Adolescent Needs Strengths (CANS), Homeless Outreach Support Team (HOST) and Access, Coordination and Enhancement (ACE) in Human Services.

DBH’s Culture-specific Subcommittees are community-driven advisory groups that engage in policy advocacy, outreach activities and program planning.  Feedback provided by members assist the department in designing programs and services that are culturally informed.

DBH, through these NACo award winning programs, is supporting the Countywide Vision by creating a county in which those who reside and invest can prosper and achieve well-being.  Information on the Countywide Vision and the Department of Behavioral Health can be found at www.sbcounty.gov.

LA VERNE, CA- Garrett Management Group, LLC presents “An Experience Under the Stars”, a captivating dinner show featuring soul stirring music performances by Men of Motown and world renowned saxophonist/vocalist, j.dee. Relive the spirit of classic Motown Saturday, October 24 at the beautiful Hafif Estate located at 4742 Live Canyon Road, in La Verne. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy a 3-course dinner at 5:30 p.m. and the show kicks off at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person, which includes parking, dinner and show.  Patrons will be shuttled from the parking area to the amphitheater.

Alphonso Boyd’s, Men of Motown, are a legendary culmination of Motown vocalists and songwriters. Consisting of four gentlemen, the Men of Motown continue to keep one of the greatest sounds in music alive and kicking. Group members Al Boyd, Kevin Carroll, Russell Watts and Ron Preyer each have a unique story that helped shape the history of Motown Music. Singing professionally for over 50 years, Al Boyd has performed with The Calvanes, The Elgins, The Sixteens, The Olympics, Dennis Edwards, David Ruffin and toured with the The O’Jays. Boyd later became a staff writer for Motown and penned the tune “Shakey Ground” originally recorded by the Temptations and made famous by Elton John. From the Doo Wop era, Kevin Carroll is most known for as the lead singer of The Platters. “When we sing the songs of Motown, people remember where they were and what they were doing when those songs came out,” says Carroll. Russell Watts began his music career with the soul group Imperial Wonders and he continued singing with The Drifters, and toured with the O’Jays alongside fellow group member Al Boyd. Fourth member Ron Preyer also sang and toured with the greats of Motown, including the Temptations, Mary Wilson and the Supremes.

j.dee, a phenomenal soprano saxophonist, adds elements of sultry, funky and smooth jazz sounds guaranteed to put the audience in a cool groove.   A natural born writer, producer and arranger, j.dee has worked with the great Grover Washington, Jr., Lalah Hathaway, Doc Powell, James Brown, Cherrelle, and WAR, just to name a few. j.dee wrote the theme song and several tunes for the motion picture, “Original Gangtas”, and produced the hit song, “12-15-22-5 (LOVE)”, which was placed in the film, “Losing Isaiah”.

Experience Under the Stars is an amazing mix of soul and jazz, under a gorgeous starry night. For event information and tickets for this great show, call 1-866-514-3391. Tickets are available for advanced purchase online at, www.gmgevents.net and at Hafif Family Foundation, 265 W. Bonita Avenue, Claremont, CA, 909-625-7971.

What up Inland Empire! What it do with the LUE this week, is the WINGS! In this industry I get a chance to meet many talented independent artists. A lot of them have similar stories and similar goals. I’d like to introduce the man himself, Justified Smith.

Justified Smith is one of the most prolific writers of our time. He has recorded and printed more than 6 independent albums over the last nine years and has reportedly moved thousands of units in the music game. Over his career he’s shared tracks with West Coast veterans E-40, Kokane, Spice 1, Bad Azz, Above the Law, and many other independent artists. Respected mostly for his passion to hustle and the heart to sell his own music out of the trunk, Justified is definitely an underground icon.

This talented artist is a jack of all trades. Not only is Mr. Smith a talented rap artist but a business owner, show host of “CALI LIVE”, CEO of “Justified” and “G.I.2.G Entertainment”, but most of all a loving and caring single father of two beautiful little girls and one handsome son. He goes hard for his family on a daily basis to ensure their provided for. You can always catch Mr. Smith doing good work within his community and beyond. His organization M.O.F.I.A. which stands for “Men Of Faith In Action”, puts on several events throughout the year blessing the folks with needed household products and materials. I can respect that all day long!

Follow the wings and please support Justified Smith. His music is available everywhere digital downloads are sold. For bookings please contact email Justfiedmuisc@net.com. Until next time l’zzz! Justified’s latest song titles include “Man On A Mission” and “Follow The Wings” featuring Suga Free Message.

By Naomi K. Bonman

To commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I recently interviewed the author of “A Survivors Celebration of Life Beyond Domestic Violence”, which is written by Tahirah Ogletree.

Olgletree is an African-American actress, print model, author, filmmaker and advocate for domestic violence. Originally from Cleveland, Tahirah moved to Phoenix, Arizona to pursue her passion for film and acting. Over the years, she has been featured as a commercial print model in nationwide magazines and catalogs, starred in Internet commercials, and landed a role in a 2008 SIS TV Production. In 2011, she was rated as America’s top-aspiring African American woman, and was featured on the prestigious cover of the Blow, Hair & Fashion magazine. In 2012, Tahirah established her own film company, O’Tahirah Films, LLC. She wrote, produced and starred in two short films, Battered But not Broken and Phoenix Finest in Blue. In “Battered But Not Broken,” Tahirah played a battered woman who finds the strength to take back her life from the deadly grips of her abuser. Tahirah wrote “Battered But not Broken” to raise awareness on domestic violence and how rapidly it’s becoming an epidemic in so many households across America.

A Survivors Celebration of Life Beyond Domestic Violence is dedicated to every victim and survivor of domestic violence with the purpose of empowering, inspiring, educating, and helping to save and change lives. It is intended as a celebration of the beauty that all survivors have within, and is a reminder to everyone that there is life beyond the deadly grips of domestic violence. This empowering coffee table book is filled with inspiring quotes, tips on how to detect the early warning signs of domestic violence, tear-jerking testimonials from survivors around the world, Tahirah’s own autobiography, and a list of domestic violence hotlines with 24/7 access to highly trained advocates for immediate support.

In conjunction with her book release, Tahirah’s clothing line debuted with the launch of two t-shirt designs. The first derives from her original art pieces called “ Power Beyond the Fist.” The striking image translates two powerful messages. On one hand, it’s a collection of 52 inspiring phrases that help domestic violence victims understand they can overcome through faith in God, encouragement, forgiveness and a great support system. On the other, it sends the message to males that real men don’t hit women. “The Nubian” shirt hits the positive message home to victims and survivors that there is no excuse in settling for a life that’s less than one is capable of living; that there is true purpose in life beyond domestic violence. It is necessary to rise above and become the best version of oneself. When worn, these high-quality shirts act as strong messages to society, supporting the theory that we can break the silence of domestic violence.

To listen to the audio interview, please visit http://bit.ly/1JAuQCr. For more information on the book and how you can get it, visit otahirah.com.

LOS ANGELES, CA- McDonald’s is bringing its Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour to the 10th Annual Taste of Soul Family Festival on Saturday, October 17. Southern California McDonald’s will join local gospel choirs with today’s biggest names in gospel music for a day of fellowship and fun during the community festival.

Hosting the tour is Stellar-nominated artist and radio personality Lonnie Hunter. Joining him on stage will be music director and songwriter Donald Lawrence, vocal powerhouse Yolanda Adams, the “Rose of Gospel” Dorinda Clark-Cole, the incomparable choral-master Ricky Dillard, urban inspirational artist DeWayne Woods, Stellar Award nominee and BET’s Sunday Best season six winner Tasha Page-Lockhart and Christian comedienne Small Fire.

“In L.A. McDonald’s has a long history with gospel,” said McDonald’s franchise owner/operator Reggie Webb, former chair of the Southern California Black McDonald’s Owner/Operator Association and currently serves on the Board of Directors.

“We’ve put on a gospel fest for 19 consecutive years. Lindsay Hughes, an operator here, ran it for 19 years. And then, we started the Inspiration Gospel Celebration, [which] has grown every year.”

Back for its ninth year, McDonald’s Inspiration Celebration Gospel Tour focuses on the importance of giving back to the community by supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). In recognition of the Charity’s 41st anniversary, this year concertgoers will have the opportunity to learn about RMHC and the important role it plays in helping families heal and thrive in their local community and worldwide.

“African Americans use all of the McDonald houses in Metropolitan Los Angeles to a greater percentage than we are a percentage of the population,” Webb explained.

“Our kids are more sick than the general population so more of our families are able to take advantage of the Ronald McDonald houses they can stay close to, to support their children while their children are being treated at children’s hospitals around the area for these very debilitating diseases…”

Attendees will also be encouraged to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California by donating to help local families served by the Charity.

To learn more about the tour and the 365Black initiative, visit www.365Black.com. For more information on local gospel acts gracing the stage and details, follow @McDonalds_SoCal on Twitter and join the conversation at #365BlackGospel.

Lou Coleman

By Lou Coleman

Jesus was mistreated by Roman soldiers, Matthew 26:27-31. He was ridiculed by the Jewish leaders, Matt. 27:39-43. He was even ridiculed by the two thieves who were crucified with Him, Matthew 27:44. He endured all of this so that He might make a lavish purchase and redeem you from the slavery of your sins. If you stop and think about the price God paid to redeem you, how can you turn a deaf ear to His call? When you consider the price He paid, the shame He bore, and the lengths He went to, to make salvation possible, how can you not bow before Him in love, in obedience, and in gratitude? Oh I know… because you are selfish…. You are just like those who was in the days of Noah Matthew 24:37-39 eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage… selfishly going about life as usual, while ignoring the truth in the face of impending doom and judgment. How unfortunate! Wrapped up in you and not caring. Lost and on your way to Hell! You’ve forgotten your history. You’ve forgotten where you came from; you forgotten the blessings you have received along the way. And when that happens, you forget to be grateful to the One who has blessed you along the way. What tragedy!  Psalms 81 tells that story and the results for Israel. There is a history lesson and a warning in this psalm for us. If we forget our history with God, we will forget God. We will forget the good things He has done for us, chief of which is saving us from sin. Why want you choose to remember!

Listen, sometimes, you only get one chance. And if you miss it, you never get the chance to do it again. God says, “Behold.” “Pay attention!” “Listen up!” Hear what is being said!” There will be no reprieve. There will be no second chances…” Amos 8:11-14. I want you to know that if you are going to survive and thrive, you must be able to get a word from the Lord. When you refuse to hear the Word of God, God will give you His silence in Judgment. That is a judgment greater than any other. Jesus said in Matthew 11:15, “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” I want you to know that those who turned a deaf ear to the Gospel of Christ, they all went to Hell Psalm 9:17. It is interested that the Bible says those who perished in the flood knew not until destruction was upon them. They sincerely didn’t believe Noah’s message of coming judgment and doom. The rich man knew not until he awoke in the fires of Hell. I know that many people alive today will not wake up until they are burning in Hell with the rich man, because they refused to listen.  While we are facing impending doom and destruction in this world, most people couldn’t care less. Just as the world didn’t care before the flood came and swept them away. Just as Sodom didn’t care before God reigned down fire and brimstone to consume them. Just as Jerusalem didn’t care before Babylon utterly destroyed them. Just as the rich man didn’t care before God cast him into the flames of Hell, so also is the wicked, who don’t care about the truth; but I want you to know… eternal judgment is coming!

I will leave you with food for thought…. the message in Hebrews 3:8-18 “Do not be stubborn, as your ancestors were when they rebelled against God, as they were that day in the desert when they put him to the test. There they put me to the test and tried me, says God, although they had seen what I did for forty years. And so I was angry with those people and said, “they are always disloyal and refuse to obey my commands.’ I was angry and made a solemn promise: “They will never enter the land where I would have given them rest! My friends, be careful that none of you have a heart so evil and unbelieving that you will turn away from the living God. Instead, in order that none of you be deceived by sin and become stubborn, you must help one another every day, as long as the word “Today” in the scripture applies to us. For we are all partners with Christ if we hold firmly to the end the confidence we had at the beginning. This is what the scripture says: “If you hear God’s voice today, do not be stubborn, as your ancestors were when they rebelled against God.” Who were the people who heard God’s voice and rebelled against him? All those who were led out of Egypt by Moses. With whom was God angry for forty years? With the people who sinned, who fell down dead in the desert. When God made his solemn promise, “They will never enter the land where I would have given them rest” – of whom was he speaking? Of those who rebelled.

To whom shall I speak, and give warning, that they may hear?

Claudell Curry

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- The Music Ministry of St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church is sponsoring a live recorded concert featuring Claudell Curry and the church’s mass choir.  Mr. Curry, who is “Celebrating Eighty Years of Joy for the Lord in Song,” will be rendering “Music with a Message” as he shares his God given bass vocal talents with resonance and clarity. He has been featured as a frequent soloist in the church’s choirs during his 54 years as a member of St. Paul as well as churches in the Los Angeles Districts of the AME Church.

This will also be an opportunity to preserve the church’s history by having a live recorded concert of the artist and mass choir by a professional recording company. The concert will be held on Saturday, October 10 at 3 p.m., at the Inghram Community Center located at 2050 North Mt. Vernon in San Bernardino.

Tickets for the concert are $10 and $25 for the concert and a copy of the CD.  For further information and to purchase tickets, please contact St. Paul AMEC at 1355 W. 21^st Street, San Bernardino or call 909-887-1718.

Adrena Ifill Blagburn

Adrena Ifill Blagburn is the 2015 recipient of the J. Franklin Jameson Archival Advocacy Award given by the Society of American Archivists (SAA). The award was presented at a ceremony during the SAA Annual Meeting in Cleveland, August 16–22. The award honors an individual, institution, or organization that promotes greater public awareness, appreciation, or support of archival activities or programs.

Since founding the strategic communications firm, Ifill/DoubleBack Global Group in 2002, Ifill Blagburn has been a leading advocate for the preservation of archival records documenting African-American Congressional history. As a result of her efforts to educate Black lawmakers about record retention policies, Ifill Blagburn has increased public awareness on the importance of not only preserving these records, but of the benefits of utilizing them for educational and historic programs. As a consultant, she directs the Avoice Project of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. As Chief Strategist for DoubleBack, she has developed exhibits, videos and events for various organizations to reach diverse audiences and empower them “to take history off the shelf.” Ifill Blagburn’s many strategic partners include the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center at Howard University, the Robert J. Terry Library at Texas State University, the DC Archives and the Center for Legislative Archives at the National Archives.

Ifill Blagburn is a graduate of Williams College and received her MBA from Howard University. With roots in the Caribbean and North Carolina, she learned firsthand the importance of preserving history and its global impact. Gaining access to “lost” collections and being able to double back with the descendants of unfamiliar historic figures to devise, creative ways to communicate these stories is one of Ifill Blagburn’s favorite things. Her advocacy is partly mission driven, tied closely to providing excellent customer service and assembling a team with in-depth knowledge of her clients’ specialty areas that produces innovative and timely results.