Staff members Kimberly Mesen, Christopher Porter, Samuel Shoup and Paul Marsh joined the High Desert community Tuesday, August 2 for National Night Out.

Started in 1984, National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

There was a great turnout throughout the First District! Supervisor Cook’s staff enjoyed meeting with constituents and catching up with public safety representatives.

By Jasmine Browley

Dr. Sonja Stribling said she was left emotionally and financially bankrupt after her divorce from her husband in 2014.

After 18 years of marriage, the pair parted ways, making her a single mother of three and terrified of what was to come. The timing couldn’t have been more pivotal because she was also retiring from the military simultaneously after 21 years of service.

“I was incredibly depressed and so lost,” Stribling shared with Essence. But she said her military training wouldn’t allow her to rest in that space, so she decided to pivot.

“I made a shift when I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do next, so I went to school, got a PhD in clinical counseling, thinking that was going to help me do more,” she shared.

Soon after becoming a clinical counselor, she began to heal from the painful divorce and realized she wanted to help other women do the same.

“I made a decision to venture into divorce coaching, which was incredibly fulfilling but I started seeing that my clients needed a boost in their professional lives as well but lacked the confidence to take their career to the next level while reeling from their personal challenges.”

Much like her clients, surprisingly Stribling had to admit to herself that she doubted her ability to reach financial success without a marital partner by her side.

LOS ANGELES, CA — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, visited the Planned Parenthood Los Angeles headquarters to meet with volunteers, advocates and workers, and highlight his efforts to protect essential reproductive health care in the wake of the Dobbs decision. Padilla was joined by Sue Dunlap, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles and Celinda Vazquez, Chief External Officer of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles. The visit comes as nearly half of states across the country continue to restrict access to reproductive care.

“I am grateful for the tremendous level of dedication and care that Planned Parenthood Los Angeles offers to the surrounding community,” said Senator Padilla. “However, across the country women continue to experience the harmful and, in many cases, deadly consequences of a post-Roe America. In the face of unending attacks on reproductive freedom, we will not give up the fight to protect a woman’s right to safe abortion access.”

“We want to extend our sincere thanks to Senator Padilla for stopping by Planned Parenthood Los Angeles to see the importance of our work firsthand. Senator Padilla is a long-time champion for reproductive health care and access to safe and legal abortion and we’re thankful for his continued advocacy in this critical moment where people from all walks of life are looking to California to lead.” Celinda M. Vazquez, Chief External Affairs Officer, Planned Parenthood Los Angeles.

Senator Padilla is a champion for reproductive rights and is a cosponsor of the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would guarantee access and the right to provide abortion services in the United States. Most recently, Padilla joined his colleagues in introducing the Freedom to Travel for Health Care Act of 2022, legislation that would make it clear that it is illegal for anti-choice states to limit travel for abortion services and would empower the U.S. Attorney General and impacted individuals to bring civil action against those who restrict a person’s right to cross state lines to receive legal reproductive care.

Padilla also successfully secured commitments from SafeGraph and Placer.ai, two data brokers, to permanently stop selling the location data of people who visit abortion clinics. This month, he also urged President Biden to prioritize health equity for people of color, and low-income, immigrant, and tribal communities in any executive actions to address the recent Dobbs decision.

SOUTH CHINA SEA—- Ensign Keith Masnec, from Chino Hills, Calif., shoots a bearing through the sextant on the bridge wing of Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) during a replenishment-at-sea with Henry J. Kaiser-class underway replenishment oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO-202). Chancellorsville is forward-deployed to U.S. 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and is assigned to Commander, Task Force 70, a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of its allies and partners in the region.

By Lou Yeboah

For, Thus Saith the Lord: “Behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble. The day that is coming shall set them ablaze, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall. And you shall tread down the wicked, for they will be ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day when I act, says the Lord of hosts.

“I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the Lord arrives. [Malachi 4:1-3, 5]. Listen and take heed. “And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because your salvation is nearer now than when you first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. Put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” [Romans 13:11-12] Because I tell you, soon and very soon change is coming!

Just imagine what it will be like when the hand of God will begin to plague the ungodly, when He will pour out all the vials of His wrath upon you and crush you with His power. What will happen to you when God says, “I will remove my adversaries and severely punish my enemies.” I will tear you to pieces, with none to rescue” [Psalm 50:22]. Do not trifle with it, repent while it is still daybreak. Because the longer God’s arm is uplifted, the more terrible will be the blow when He finally strikes.

I tell you, it is in great love that He restrains His wrath, for He is “slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. But, just like a torrent that is dammed up for a while, gathers force and strength, and every hour in which it is kept back it gets to be more irresistible, so it is with “the coming wrath” when it finally comes upon you. Do not take God’s forbearance for granted, because even though the wrath is delayed for a while, it will surely come.

Consider this, you who forget God.

By Lue Dowdy | LUE Productions

This week I’d like to highlight Caramel Connections Foundation and The Seeds of Joy Community Garden a nonprofit based out of Ontario, California.

Friends of Distinction – Saturday, July 23rd, Founder and CEO ‘Elizabeth McSwain’, held a ‘Friends of Distinction Celebration’ to recognize and honor their community partners, volunteers, board members, and sponsors. The day was absolutely beautiful and filled with love. The celebration took place in Ontario at the Seeds of Joy Community Garden located at 1240 W. 4th Street, Ontario, CA. starting at 10:00 am ending at 2:00 pm.

The event theme was tropical. Upon arrival guests were greeted with Caribbean music provided by guitar player, ‘Ronnie B. Good’, which set the tone for the day. As the music played, they were able to tour the garden, ask questions, and take photos. ‘Pastor Brian E. Kennedy SR.’ of Mt. Zion Church opened the celebration with prayer and the Mayor of Ontario, ’Paul S. Leon’, spoke of the wonderful works taking place at the community garden and expressed how happy he was to be a part of it all. As the breeze flowed, guests were able to relax under a shady tree while participating in a mindfulness meditation exercise. Entertainment was comprised of three amazing poets, ‘Lyrically Aware’, ‘Truth’, and ‘Dion Jahmal’. A healthy lunch was provided for all to enjoy. The menu consisted of delicious meat patties, a garden salad with fresh veggies harvested out of their garden; along with fresh fruit and hibachi juice. Tote bags with resources and promotional materials was handed out towards the end.

Caramel Connections Foundation connects the community through culinary events. Their initiatives include introducing families to a healthy eating lifestyle. The Seeds of Joy Community Garden project serves systemically marginalized communities, which may include but are not limited to low-income, BIPOC, formerly incarnated students of colors, veterans, documented and undocumented youth.

Congratulations to founder and CEO, ‘Elizabeth McSwain’ for being honored as a 2022 Woman of Distinction.

List of Supporters: First 5 San Bernardino, Mount Zion, Ontario South UCCE, Master Gardeners of San Bernardino County, City of Ontario, California – Government KVCR, Lifestyles Spectrum News 1, SoCal SLJ PRO AUDIO SERVICES, LUE Productions, The Black Chamber of Commerce I.E., Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, Kohl’s Cares, Rsbcihi Health Education Native American Resource Center, 100 Black Men of the Inland Empire, Niagara Cares Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield ,American Beverage, and  Connect IE

How to Connect:

caramelconnctions.org

community@caramelconnections.org

909.696.9017

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

As much as Black people are defined by the contributions they’ve made to American culture, society also defines Black women and men by stereotypes that have evolved over time.

From the music we don’t listen to, the jobs we don’t take, to even the outdoor activities we don’t participate in, these stereotypes paint a picture that grossly underestimates the scope of the true Black Mosaic. Sometimes Black people buy into these depictions and the limitations associated with them and it takes people like Rue Mapp, founder of Outdoor Afro, to remind and educate Black people of their heritage, which includes a special connection to nature.

Outdoor Afro is a non-profit organization that celebrates and inspires Black participation and leadership in nature. It’s a national network with volunteer leaders reaching thousands of people. Outdoor Afro connects Black people with open spaces and parks, on-the-water experiences, and wildlife through outdoor education, recreation, and conservation. Examples of Outdoor Afro’s year-round activities include fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, gardening, and skiing.

“I really set out to try and shift the visual representation of who we imagine recreates outside, is empowered outside and lives a full life connected to nature,” Mapp explains to people interested in learning about the organization.

“These last few years, it’s been so important for us to have ways to find our healing and find our connection and find our community. When we get out into places of nature, we can let that stress go,” she said, speaking in a conversation with the Weather Channel for a Black History Month feature.

Outdoor Afro achieves this vision by providing a yearly outdoor leadership training weekend. Over 100 volunteer leaders receive training from Outdoor Afro staff and experienced volunteers as they share the organization’s history, values, best practices, and industry knowledge. Volunteers learn trip planning basics, health impacts of nature, conservation ethics, risk management, and effective social media storytelling.

“I really set out to try and shift the visual representation of who we imagine recreates outside, is empowered outside and lives a full life connected to nature,” Mapp explains to people interested in learning about the organization.

“These last few years, it’s been so important for us to have ways to find our healing and find our connection and find our community. When we get out into places of nature, we can let that stress go,” she said, speaking in a conversation with the Weather Channel for a Black History Month feature.

Outdoor Afro achieves this vision by providing a yearly outdoor leadership training weekend. Over 100 volunteer leaders receive training from Outdoor Afro staff and experienced volunteers as they share the organization’s history, values, best practices, and industry knowledge. Volunteers learn trip planning basics, health impacts of nature, conservation ethics, risk management, and effective social media storytelling.

After training, volunteer leaders create and guide monthly trips that foster local program collaborations and help strengthen community relationships with the outdoors nationwide. Outdoor Afro’s additional programs include ‘Making Waves’, a national initiative to teach Black children how to swim and an annual Juneteenth celebration in Oakland, California.

Mapp’s journey with Outdoor Afro began as a kitchen table blog where she would often write about her experiences in nature growing up in Oakland. In 2009, Mapp converted the blog into Outdoor Afro.

“It’s pretty incredible how we’ve grown from a few volunteer leaders. We have over 100 Outdoor Afro volunteer leaders who are in 33 states in 56 cities. 60,000 people who are getting out with us hiking, biking, camping, you name it. In the outdoors, in community learning new things, overcoming fears and anxieties that transform into a love of both nature and community.”

Mapp is chairperson of the California State Park and Recreation Commission and vice-chair of the governing council of the Wilderness Society. She is a board member of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.

Next on Mapp’s agenda is publishing her first book “Nature Swagger” which will be released in November. It is a combination of photos featuring outdoor adventures and compelling stories of Black joy in nature.

“When I’m out in nature, the trees don’t know that I’m Black. The birds are going to sing no matter how much money is in my account. Flowers are going to bloom no matter who I voted for. I think we can learn a lot from nature about how to BE.”

See a list of cities where Outdoor Afro volunteer leaders are hosting adventures in nature near you.

RIVERSIDE, CA—- Riverside Community Health Foundation is proud to announce the in-person return of Riverside’s 11th annual Pink on Parade breast cancer awareness walk on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at Ryan Bonaminio Park located at 5000 Tequesquite Ave, Riverside, CA 92506) from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pink on Parade brings Inland Empire residents together to celebrate, honor and bring awareness to those impacted by breast cancer. Participants are welcome to walk either the 5k Mt. Rubidoux route or 1.8k Family Fun route around Ryan Bonaminio Park.

Registration for the walk is now open. The first 100 registrants will receive a free 2022 Pink on Parade t-shirt, which was inspired by Pink on Parade’s 2021 virtual art contest winner D. Alexander.

Food, drinks, and merchandise will be available for purchase at the event.

Virtual participation is also available from the comfort of your home. No matter where you are located, all are welcome to join the virtual Art on Parade contest by creating any art piece inspired by breast cancer awareness in any medium. Contest submissions will be accepted beginning on September 18. 

A special survivor ceremony will be held during the event to celebrate and honor the journey of breast cancer survivors. A VIP area will also be dedicated to survivors filled with relaxation, community, and gratitude. The first 100 survivors who register for Pink on Parade by October 3 will receive a free t-shirt.

A new element of fun will be added to this year’s event— the Pink on Parade Classic Car Show. This is a classic car show guaranteed to take you down memory lane! People from all over the Inland Empire and surrounding areas will bring their classic cars from 1940s – 1970s. The Pink on Parade Classic Car Show will feature both import and domestic classic cars. All makes and models are welcome to join! Friendly competition will be underway, and Car Show participants can win in the following categories:

• Best Domestic Classic
• Best Import Classic
• Best Overall

With only 60 spots available, car enthusiasts are encouraged to register for the show starting August 15.

Join us as we kick off the Pink on Parade season at our virtual and in-person Team Captain Kick-Off events where you will have the opportunity to learn more about the event, The Pink Ribbon Place, and tips on how to get your team started! Rallying a team means helping a mother, daughter, sister, or even neighbor receive vital support.

Virtual Team Captain Kick-Off
August 2  |  12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMod-mpqTwpG9H5_U1lI77RGs_HU4ABWUAK

In-Person Team Captain Kick-Off and Happy Hour
August 23  |  6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Escape Craft Brewery: Downtown
Oasis 440 Oriental Ave, Redlands, CA 92374
Registration Link: https://rchf.salsalabs.org/2022PinkonParadeInPersonTCKOEscapeOasis/index.html

Each year, Pink on Parade raises awareness and funds to support the programs and services of Riverside Community Health Foundation’s cancer resource center – The Pink Ribbon Place. The Center offers hope to individuals and families impacted by cancer through a variety of resources, such as counseling, support groups, wigs, and nutrition classes.

Pink on Parade is proudly sponsored by Altura Credit Union, and supported by Riverside Community Health Foundation’s Corporate Sponsors: Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), Molina Healthcare, Pacific Premier Bank, Riverside University Health System.

For more information or to register for Pink on Parade, visit pinkonparade.org.

Helpful Registration Links/Dates

• Art on Parade Contest Submissions Begin September 18
• Classic Car Show Registration Opens August 15
• Registration for Pink on Parade: www.pinkonparade.org
• Registration for VIRTUAL Team Captain Kick-Off: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMod-mpqTwpG9H5_U1lI77RGs_HU4ABWUAK?utm
• Registration for IN-PERSON Team Captain Kick-Off: https://rchf.salsalabs.org/2022PinkonParadeInPersonTCKOEscapeOasis/index.html