Official deadline extended to September 30, 2018

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—-LOS ANGELES, CA—- The Pan African Film Festival (PAFF), the largest and most prestigious Black film festival in the US, is accepting film submissions – narratives, documentaries, features, shorts, live action and animation. The Official Submission deadline has been extended to September 30, 2018. Enter today at www.paff.org/festivals/paff-la/submissions/ or on Film Freeway.

Now in its 27th year, The Pan African Film Festival will be held February 7 to February 18, 2019, in Los Angeles, California. As always, it will be an amazing showcase of more than 170 films made by and/or about people of African descent, from the U.S., Africa and its Diaspora. PAFF also includes informative panel discussions, workshops, special screenings, guest speakers, red carpets and other festivities.

PAFF has served as a launchpad for some of today’s most successful and relevant filmmakers. Directors Malcolm Lee, Gina Prince-Bythewood and Ava Duvernay had early films in the festival. Actors David Oyelowo and Nate Parker have been actively involved. “Think Like a Man” and Bill Duke’s “Dark Girls” premiered at PAFF. Celebrity sightings are not unusual at PAFF.

At the February 2018 festival, PAFF hosted a special preview screening of “Black Panther.” Its star, Chadwick Boseman, also stopped in at PAFF.

“PAFF is the film festival for serious filmmakers who are passionate about telling their stories,” says PAFF co-founder and Executive Director Ayuko Babu. “PAFF opens doors and connects you to the heart of Hollywood. There is no other festival on earth like the Pan African Film Festival,” he said.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences has designated PAFF as an official qualifying film festival for live action and animation short films.

Late submissions are accepted but incur increased fees. Avoid the higher fees and take advantage of the extended deadline. Submit now at www.paff.org/festivals/paff-la/submissions/

The Late Submission deadline is now Oct. 1 – Oct. 15. Extended Late Submission deadline is Oct. 16 – Nov. 5. For submissions after Nov. 5, please contact submissions@paff.org.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— SAN BERNARDINO, CA —-Wingstop, the award-winning concept with more than 1,000 locations worldwide, will celebrate the grand opening of its new San Bernardino location by offering free six-piece wing combos (wings plus veggie sticks or seasoned fries and a fountain beverage) to all guests who stop by to catch a first glimpse of the new location from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 25. The giveaways will continue while supplies last.

“We are extremely excited to introduce our made-to-order wings and craveable rubs and sauces to the residents and visitors of San Bernardino,” said Ted Morton, Chief Executive Officer of Sizzling Platter. “We look forward to becoming the go-to spot for all-things wings, sides and everything in between for Wingstop’s would-be, loyal and passionate fans alike.”

This new Wingstop is part of a development deal with Sizzling Platter, a Utah-based restaurant management company with more than 430 restaurant units globally. The 2,117-square-foot restaurant will provide seating for roughly 34 guests at a time.

Wingstop will be located at 1598 East Highland Avenue in San Bernardino.

Tina Knowles (mother of artist Beyoncé Knowles) chats with
HDIV News Editor Barbara James

By B. James/L. Traiger, HDIV News

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—- HIGH DESERT, CA—-‘Ain’t to Proud to Beg’..A powerful and immersive musical experience that is visually stimulating with the cast stepping and harmonizing to the amazing Motown beats. The entire audience is their stage and you are seated in their neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan. A seamless flow of memorable soulful music and artistic style will leave you feeling nostalgic–all night long. Therefore, sit back and enjoy a taste of Motown music! 

Aint Too Proud to Beg, My Girl, Heard it through the Grapevine, Just my imagination, The way you do the things you do, I wish it would rain, Get Ready, I’m gonna make you love me, Cloud Nine, Ball of Confusion, I Can’t Get Next to you- All these iconic songs, and more were performed, and many got full on sweaty soul stirring, stunning vocals, and fantastically choreographed production numbers that kept the show moving and the audience dancing in their seats. 

HDIV News Editor Barbara James with Otis Williams-Temptations

Derrick (Otis Williams), starts with the back story and the rise of the most successful crossover R&B group in history, with Derrick (Otis) seamlessly pivoting between fourth wall narrator and being himself in the story as it unfolds. Of course the story weaves through the Temps rise to the top and also interweaves the African American experience in the 60s including violence against the group as they were touring the deep south and their bus being shot at by the KKK, also the racial unrest in Detroit.  Also narrating their experience of the shocking murder of Dr King, singing ‘Oh How I Wish that it Would Rain’. The storyline highlighted their desire to speak up in the late 60s through their songs, while often clashing with their mentor and record producer Berry Gordy. Gordy often expressed that music and politics should be separated.

Motown CEO Barry Gordy with actress
Debbie Allen

The Temptations were among the first black crossover artists to make it big on white Top 40 radio stations and on television, playing “American Bandstand” and “The Ed Sullivan Show” in the early 1960s – along with girl group mega-act The Supremes (and, yes, we hear “Baby Love”..an astounding rendition of the Supremes memorable top tunes ). The Vietnam War, too, gets riveting  emotional promotion with just the brief number “War.”

Keeping all this song and dance production moving is the impeccable cast led by Derrick Baskin as Temptations patriarch Otis Williams. James Harkness plays baritone and choreographer Paul Williams, whose tragic story plays out in the second act. Jawan Jackson as deep-voiced bass Melvin “Blue” Franklin, plays the peacemaker of the group. As Eddie Kendricks, Jeremy Pope lends his energetic falsetto singing style to the role. Ephraim Sykes, a former Ailey II dancer, gives

Musical artist John Legend attends opening night

David Ruffin, the early standout lead, plenty of flashy dance moves, including James Brown-like jazz splits, and a egotistical attitude. The group is clad in sharply tailored suits and ensembles filled with the vibrant colors, sequins and shiny sharkskin fabrics that made the 1960s and ‘70s such a definitive fashion era. The clothes, in this case, did make the men: image was essential, noted Berry Gordy (Jahi Kearse), who insisted they always appear as clean-cut gentlemen.

Huge kudos to the remarkable orchestra who played on point and played every Motown hit impeccably.

‘Ain’t Too Proud’, reaches for and succeeds in attaining the artistic excellence and entertainment levels of many outstanding musical stage productions. Don’t miss this superb performance playing at the Ahmanson Theatre until September 30, 2018. Visit www.Ahmansontheater.net/events for tickets.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)—- REDLANDS, CA— On Saturday, September 22 at 2 p.m. the Center for Spiritual Living Redlands located at 602 Church Street in Redlands is presenting a play written by local playwright Renee Hart RScP entitled, “The Key: The Inner Guide to a Higher Vibration”. 

This play is back by popular demand with new updates and surprises. The play focuses on overcoming human shortfalls and strengthening one’s faith in God.

“’The Key’ has a great message, Derrinaye Fontaine explained. “The music is good, and the dancers are extraordinary!”

“The Key is an awesome play that really touches on the ability to have Faith and trust in the unknown. I really enjoyed how each scene revealed a message that empowered you to rise above your challenges.  Beautifully written,” Carla F. said.

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through eventbrite.com or at the door.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— The Knock Knock Angels and Ashley Furniture/West Covina have created a collaboration to assist a homeless Veteran couple and their family by providing a complete interior makeover of home furnishings.  They have partnered to help give this family a new beginning from a troubled past that includes being a victim of sexual assault which led to challenges with substance abuse. 

Knock Knock Angels is a non-profit based out of Fontana, CA that has for the last five years helped countless families, single mothers, Veterans and the elderly bounce back and recover from tragic situations.  They help families by providing basic essentials for children and families to live and thrive in.  They are also known as a giving forum for people and companies to perform random acts of kindness in the community. 

On Friday, September 14, the Angels along with the help of Ashley Furniture, made over the home of Sherwin Sanchez and Heather Phillips, both of whom are Veterans.

Newly appointed Post Commander, Yolanda Davis of AMVETS Post 77, contacted Vickie Lobo, Founder of Knock Knock Angels, with a need for help for Sanchez, Phillips and their baby.  The Angels then contacted Charles Serrano, Store Manager of Ashley Furniture in West Covina, CA.  Upon hearing the family’s story, Serrano immediately agreed to help with providing furnishing for their home, which the couple and their child had been living in without any furniture.

The couple struggled with sobriety and have stayed clean since 2016. They eventually were provided housing by the Veterans Administration as well as financial benefits.  Together, Knock Knock Angels and Ashley Furniture will continue to assist this family with community support and furnishings for their apartment. 

Sherwin is a self-taught tattoo artist and Heather in now a full-time employee with Loma Linda VA hospital.  It’s a great ending to a horrible story but these are the types of families that Knock Knock Angels looks for when selecting families to assist.

Knock Knock Angels was founded in 2013 to provide household furnishings to needy families and individuals throughout the Inland Empire. The nonprofit organization facilitates home makeovers for people suffering from debilitating illnesses and victims of financial poverty.

Founder Vickie Lobo is a local Realtor in the Inland Empire who started her community service with a small group of friends who received donations of furniture and home décor to furnish small homes locally. Four years later, her dream has grown to assist multiple families yearly with dozens of volunteers and hundreds of items donated to each family.

To date, Knock Knock Angels has serviced many families and now has monthly Random Acts of Kindness to keep the community involved in the spirit of giving. 

For more information about Vickie Lobo and Knock Knock Angels, or to nominate a deserving family for their 2018 Christmas MiracleMakeover, please contact them  at (909) 496-2082 or  info@knockknockangels.org.

To volunteer for the makeovers please call (909) 496-2082. You may also visit their website  at www.knockknockangels.org

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-San Bernardino) partnered with Andy Vargas, the lead singer of Santana and San Bernardino Community College to provide 14 students in the 47th District with the distinct opportunity to learn music production.

The Andy Vargas Music Production Academy is a 6-month program that began in April and will culminate in October with a graduation performance ceremony and issuing of certificates. The training was provided free-of-charge to the students. The students are receiving lessons in engineering fields, music writing, singing, licensing and marketing and skills on relationship building and networking.

Students who are participating, attend San Bernardino City Unified School District, Colton Joint Unified School District, Fontana Unified School District, and Rialto Unified School District.

Anthony Hernandez

Bethany Bjorkman

Alyssa Edwards

David Osorio

Lilliane Vargas

Priscilla Bracamontes

Natalie Luna

Anthony Cervantes

Nidrick Reed

Samantha Contreras

Alejandra Salamanca

Daphne Servine

Angela Sanchez

DeJuan Rabb

“I am honored to partner with Andy Vargas to bring the Andy Vargas Music Production Academy to the 47^th Assembly District,” said Assemblymember Reyes.

“Due to the disparity of funding for after school music and art programs in the Inland Southern California Region, I am working with the Andy Vargas Foundation to provide our students with opportunities to excel in the arts. I am excited to see the impact this program has made on our students.”

“We use music as a tool for self-expression, by giving children the skill of self-regulation and getting them ready for a successful life. My goal for our program is to share the inspiration that was given to me by the example of my peers. We learn by example, and when our students see the passion and love we have for music it becomes infectious,” said Andy Vargas. “When I visited the city of San Bernardino I saw the potential the city has to offer, and my heart immediately connected to the youth.”

This pilot program will allow Assemblymember Reyes to analyze the program’s success and participation to identify public policy solutions that will help provide successful after school and art programs in our district.

To learn more about the Andy Vargas Music Production Academy, visit http://www.andyvargasfoundation.org/the-andy-vargas-foundation-music-and-video-arts-program/

Tresunda De La Cruz (Photo Credit: Letha Coughlin)

By Lue Dowdy

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— Plus Size Model, Tresunda De La Cruz, is What it Do! No surprise that this plus size beauty was born in the state of California due to her shinning personality.

Newness is in the air as new comer Tresunda De La Cruz is making her way into the world of plus size modeling. She captured the attention of many as she took first place and the crown for LUE Productions 2nd Annual BBW/Plus Size Model Competition.

Being given inspiration from her family and iconic models such as Naomi Campbell, has allowed her to take a leap of faith into doing something different. The love for picture taking and fashion came naturally to this newly crowned Queen who claims to be shy. Getting involved in modeling has helped her to overcome shyness and step out of her comfort zone.

Currently, Tresunda is working with photographers building her portfolio. You’ll be seeing a lot more of this talented beauty. For booking please contact management at Lue.info@yahoo.com.

Until next week my IE peeps!

More about Plus Size Model, Tresunda De La Cruz:

Favorite Food: Japanese and Tacos

Favorite Song: “Quit Playing Games With My Heart” –Backstreet Boys

Favorite color: Green

Hobbies: Zumba and she is also a Barbie Collector

Describe yourself with 5 words: Confident, Encouraging, Loving, Honest, Sweet

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— SAN BERNARDINO, CA— On Sunday, September 9, Empire Talks Back (ETB) discussed emergency preparedness with guest Debra Williams of “Building Resilient Communities”. She discussed the “Arc of Safety”, the county wide organization of churches that is prepared to provide resources in emergency situations.  ETB is broadcast each Sunday AM at 10 a.m. on KCAA 1050-AM, 102.3 FM and 106.5 FM radio. The podcast of Sunday’s show is available by clicking the “Empire Talks Back” icon on the KCAA Weekly Schedule at http://www.kcaaradio.com.

10/17/2003 – New Laker Bryon Russell brings the ball up court during a preseason game between Phoenix Suns and Lakers.

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— REDLANDS, CA— The Board of Directors of Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County (CAPSBC) announces the Master of Ceremonies for its 2018 Piano Recital and Gala event is Mr. Bryon Russell former NBA Star. Mr. Russell is a native of San Bernardino and attended San Bernardino High School.

The NBA career of Bryon Russell spanned from 1993 to 2006 and included playing for the Denver Nuggets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, and Utah Jazz. Mr. Russell is best remembered for guarding Michael Jordan at the end of Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals. Jordan made the game-winning shot over Russell, although many fans believe Jordan pushed off Russell during the play.

Mr. Russell has been a volunteer at the CAPSBC Food Bank Program for the past several years and is excited to be hosting this year’s Gala event. The event will take place on Saturday, October 6 at 4 p.m. at the University of Redlands, located at 1200 E. Colton Avenue in Redlands. On the grounds of the University of Redlands campus, the Recital will be held at the beautiful Memorial Chapel as a fundraiser for the CAPSBC Food Bank which serves 40,000 food insecure San Bernardino County households every month. Since its inception in 1984, the CAPSBC Food Bank has distributed over 200 million pounds of food at no charge to fight hunger.

Mr. Russell will host the elegant Recital, Gala Reception and Dinner which includes the presentation of the Community Action Legacy Awards honoring agencies and individuals who have made great strides in addressing poverty and hunger in our county. The efforts of all who are working to improve our communities is critically needed as 26% of San Bernardino County children live in poverty and there are 36,886 homeless children in our public schools.

The Piano Recital will feature “Two Piano Journey” with Michelle and Christopher Kuo, an incredible world-class piano ensemble team. They will perform music from the classical works of Sergei Rachmaninoff. Every single concert is performed, in full or in part, for the benefit of a nonprofit organization. They have performed in locations such as Carnegie Hall – NY, The Green Room – San Francisco, The Lighthouse Guild – NY, Rutgers University – NY, Friday Musicale – FL, Drew University – NJ, Old Dominion University – VA, and countless premier international sites.

Join us for a magical evening of music and fine dining. For tickets visit our website at www.capsbc.org Special pricing for seniors 55+ and students (all ages) will be available for the Piano Recital. For more information, call (909) 723-1523 or e-mail info@capsbc.org

(EMPIRE NEWS NETWORK (ENN)— SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino Pastors United (SBPU) will be having another Community Block party on Saturday, September 22, at Dr. Martin Luther King Middle School located at 1250 Medical Center in San Bernardino.

The Pastors are coming together to continue to unite the community through love, compassion and fellowship. The Churches continue to take a stand together as a united front to encourage and bless the community. These engagements help families with much needed resources, increases goodwill within the community, and allows law enforcement to interact with residence in a positive environment.

There will be Free food, groceries, shoes, backpacks for kids, clothes and health checks, face-painting, and jumpers for kids. There will be a life-saving message by Pastor Raymond Turner, Temple Missionary Baptist Church, powerful gospel music, and good fellowship. Please register by phone, email or at our website www.sbpastorsunited.org.

“Together we are strong; join with us as we bring “Healing, Change, and Progress” to the City of San Bernardino.” For more information call (909) 353-7977 or email sbpastorsunited@gmail.com.