‘Black Future Leaders, Inc.’ Educating Students in the Age of Information Technology

By Angela M. Coggs

Black Future Leaders, Inc. held their 32th Annual Summer Residential Program at California State University, San Bernardino from Friday, September 8 to Sunday, September 10. This year’s focus was Information Technology.  

The program was attended by 35 students from several school districts, including San Bernardino, Riverside and Los Angeles. They were given the opportunity to explore Arrowhead United Way’s sponsored STEM activities. The program was open to students who complete an application, provide a recent transcript or report card, and has maintained a 3.0 or higher grade point average.

On Saturday, September 10, the students participated in a one-day informative technology seminar where they learned (1) how to build a technologically responsive website using share point, (2) the role of mobile technology in a business environment and (3) how to disassemble and rebuild computer servers. 

Danny Tillman teaching students about the the stock market and how to buy, sell and invest responsibly 

Danny Tillman teaching students about the the stock market and how to buy, sell and invest responsibly 

The scholars were placed in groups and participated in a healthy, academic challenge. Each group was responsible for organizing and preparing a Financial Analysis Project. Students were asked to pick a company and analyze its stock market performance. The top two groups did their company research on Johnson & Johnson and Chevron.?  

First Place – Johnson & Johnson Group: Anaya James, Nenna Obih and Lyric Page

Second Place – Chevron Group: Kelly Gadsden, Yonathan Habermariam, Nia Howard, and Darnell Smith 

End of Program/ Luncheon Photo (Danny Tillman -left and Lois Carson - sitted in the center)

End of Program/ Luncheon Photo (Danny Tillman -left and Lois Carson – sitted in the center)

In order for the students to obtain their dorm room key for the weekend, they had to submit an essay as part of the programs requirements. The topic varies each year but expectations remain the same. Students are asked to write a 500 word essay entitled “Hidden Figures, A History to Inform the Future.” The BFL Board of Directors believe with the book and movie “Hidden Figures” students should continue the focus on areas of study such as the careers of the future. This year’s Hidden Figures Essay winners were as follows: 

1st place- Danielle Lilley 

2nd place- Yonathan Habtermariam 

3rd place– Jamin Garbutt

Group Photo 

Group Photo

It is evident in today’s society that life will continue to be concentrated in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (S.T.E.M.). Former President Barack Obama advised that these areas define the way to win the future and made these critical areas his priority during his time in the White House and also now through the Obama Foundation. African-American youth are seldom seen in the science classrooms or at the science fairs. Black Future Leader’s goal is still to change the paradigm. 

Black Future Leaders, Inc. was sponsored by Arrowhead United Way and Southern California Edison.

CEO and President of Arrowhead United Way Doug Rowand stated, “The opportunity for students to be exposed to STEM education is an important step in their future careers.” He added, “We are proud to support the engineers of our future.”? 

Black Future Leaders, Inc. is a program for African American students designed to develop leadership skills and build self-esteem to help them reach their full academic potential. Mrs. Lois Carson is one of the founders who are still active in the BFL program. The educational assistance program was designed for high school achievers from both Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Students must have and maintain a 3.0 GPA to participate. The idea for the program came from Dr. Jean Peacock, professor at California State University, San Bernardino and it was incorporated in 1985.  

For more information about Black Future Leaders, Inc. please visit www.BlackFutureLeaders.webs.com or email: BFLeaders@yahoo.com.

 

 

 

Getting Them Ready Early! Arroyo Valley High School Hosts College Night

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Arroyo Valley High School is hosting the San Bernardino City Unified School District’s 27th Annual College Night on Thursday, September 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

College Night is open to all District students and their families. High school juniors and seniors are especially encouraged to attend. During the two-hour event, students and parents can learn about financial aid and meet with college representatives to learn about admissions requirements and course offerings.

Among the more than 70 scheduled attendees are representatives of the California State University and University of California campuses, San Bernardino Valley College, trade schools, and military recruiters.

Arroyo Valley High School clubs will be selling refreshments during the event.

College Night is one of several services the District provides to make it possible for students to pursue a post-high school education.

The San Bernardino Community Scholarship Association, with assistance from the District’s Communications/Community Relations Department, works with local individuals and businesses to offer hundreds of college scholarships to District graduates. The District’s Class of 2017 earned more than $8 million in college scholarships, including 10 military academy appointments.

District high schools provide challenging, college-level coursework through Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. The classes prepare students for the rigors of college and the related A.P. and IB tests, for which students can earn college credit. IB courses are offered at Cajon and Arroyo Valley High Schools.

Middle College High School, in a collaborative effort with San Bernardino Valley College, allows enrolled students to take both high school and college courses with the opportunity to graduate with a diploma and associate’s degree.

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) teaches study and note-taking skills, encourages personal responsibility, and guides students on a path to college. AVID is offered at most District high schools and middle schools.

For more information about College Night, contact Arroyo Valley High College and Career readiness teacher Ann Le at (909) 381-4295, ext. 410018. AVHS is located at 1881 West Base Line Street in San Bernardino.

Parents who would like to enroll their child in AVID, AP, or IB programs should contact their child’s school.

This Week’s Job Listings

Company – is seeking a Journeyman Dry Waller in San Marcos, CA.  Call Nicole (760) 535-5592

Great Company – is seeking Drivers Helpers/Moving Appliances in Perris, CA.  $11.50-$12.00/hr.  Call (888) 854-6455

Concrete Subcontractors Field Construction Workers needed – in Montclair, CA.  Call to inquire (909) 267-3655

Swimming Pool-Repair/Remodel Tech needed – in Anaheim, CA.  Call Chris Brown (800) 880-6919 ext. 220

60 + General Laborers needed – in Ontario, CA.  Call (909) 476-2955

Company – is seeking Drivers/Detailers & Painters in Riverside, CA.  Apply at 7373 Orangewood Drive, Riverside, CA 92223

Local Company – is seeking a Sign Installer in Riverside, CA.  $11.00/hr.  Apply at 2900 Adams Street #B, Riverside, CA 92504

Ranch Hand needed (F/T) – in San Jacinto, CA.  Call Helen (626) 773-6016

Entry Level Window Cleaning Tech needed – in Corona, CA.  Call (951) 588-3246

Coronado Stone Products, a Second Change Employer – is seeking a Production Manager in Fontana, CA.  www.indeed.com

Go Staff, a Second Chance Employer – is seeking Construction-General Labor in Ontario, CA.  $10.50/hr.  www.indeed.com

Saladino’s Foodservice – is seeking an Order Selector in Ontario, CA.  $14.00/hr.  www.indeed.com

Schneider National – is seeking a Traffic Office Specialist in Fontana, CA.  www.indeed.com

Lineage Logistics – is seeking a Compliance Practitioner in Mira Loma, CA.  www.indeed.com

Ponderiffic Adventurer – is seeking a General Laborer in the Inland Empire, CA.  www.indeed.com

Agent Beta – is seeking a Net Suite Developer/Administrator in Corona, CA.  $3,300.00-$4,500.00/mo.  www.indeed.com

Legacy Supply Chain Company – is seeking an SCO Area Manager in Jurupa, CA. indeed.com

Lineage Logistics – is seeking an Asset Protection Associate in Riverside, CA. $12.50/hr.  indeed.com

Home Chef – is seeking a Production Supervisor in San Bernardino, CA. indeed.com

Temeco Logistics – is seeking an Inventory Coordinator in Pomona, CA. indeed.com

Evolution Electric Vehicles, Inc. – is seeking a Warehouse Clerk in Chino, CA. $25,000.00-$35,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

KeHe Distributors – is seeking an Order Selector in Chino, CA. $15.22-$15.83/hr.  indeed.com

Pacifica Foods – is seeking a Food Manufacturing Packer in Corona, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

Penske – is seeking a Branch Service Manager in Industry, CA. indeed.com

Vario Corporation – is seeking a Warehouse Associate in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Taylored Services, LLC – is seeking an Operations Supervisor in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Bluefin Distribution – is seeking an Assistant District Manager in Anaheim, CA. indeed.com

Luxury Scent Box – is seeking a Shipping Coordinator in Corona, CA. $15.00-$18.00/hr.  indeed.com

Dalix – is seeking a General Warehouse Specialist in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $11.50-$13.00/hr.  indeed.com

CTC – is seeking a Yard Worker in Rialto, CA. $14.00/hr.  indeed.com

Aranda Tooling – is seeking a Shipping Receiving Supervisor – 2nd Shift in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Altech Electronics, Inc. – is seeking a Logistic Warehouse Manager in Paramount, CA. $45,000.00-$60,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Live Nation – is seeking a Special Events Logistics Coordinator in Riverside, CA. indeed.com

Redneck Trailer Supplies – is seeking a Materials Handler/Warehouse in Mira Loma, CA. indeed.com

Calibre International – is seeking a Purchasing Specialist in Irwindale, CA. indeed.com

Boudreau Pipeline – is seeking a Laborer in Corona, CA. indeed.com

Hubsan USA Corporation – is seeking a Warehouse Supervisor/Manager in Walnut, CA. $30,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Clarcor Air Filtration – is seeking a Packaging Associate in Corona, CA. indeed.com

Drora Group – is seeking a Project Manager/Sales Assistant in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Walmart – is seeking an e-commerce Seasonal Material Handler in Chino, CA. $13.50/hr.  indeed.com

Semihandmade – is seeking an Inventory Management Person in Duarte, CA. indeed.com

JKP Flooring – is seeking a Lead Warehouseman in Anaheim, CA. $30,000.00-$40,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Alvarado – is seeking a Warehouse and Shipping Clerk in Chino, CA. $12.50/hr.  indeed.com

Penske – is seeking a Clerk-Night Shift in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Emser Tile & Natural Stone – is seeking a Warehouse Supervisor-Shipping in Ontario, CA. $65,000.00-$75,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Niagara Bottling Co – is seeking a Packaging Engineer in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Seldat, Inc. – is seeking General Labor in Walnut, CA. $18,000.00-$25,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Macy’s – is seeking a Seasonal Retail Merchandise Handler (F/T) in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Lineage Logistics – is seeking a Sanitation Worker in Mira Loma, CA. $12.50/hr.  indeed.com

Superior Groceries – is seeking a Receiving Manager in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Cooltron Industrial Supply – is seeking a Warehouse Specialist in Walnut, CA. $30,000.00-$36,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Nature’s Market – is seeking a Packaging Supervisor in Irvine, CA. indeed.com

Coastal Pacific Food Distribution – is seeking a Freezer Order Selector in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

The Right Choice – is seeking a 1st and 2nd Shift Order Picker in Fontana, CA. $10.50/hr.  indeed.com

Quick Crete Products Corporation – is seeking a General Laborer in Norco, CA. indeed.com

Los Angeles Unified School District – is seeking a Migrant Program Tech (Instructional Assistance) in Los Angeles, CA. $16.20/hr.  indeed.com

Roto-Rooter – is seeking a Field Laborer in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Capstone Logistics – is seeking a Warehouse Selector and Receiver in Rialto, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Maddox Concrete, Inc. – is seeking Concrete Laborers in Corona, CA. indeed.com

United Natural Foods, Inc. – is seeking a Selector, Sign on Bonus – $2,000.00 in The Inland Empire CA. indeed.com

Kann Enterprises, Inc. – is seeking a Forklift Operator/Order Puller in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $10.50-$12.00/hr.  indeed.com

Simplified – is seeking a Cherry Picker Operator in Ontario, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Honeyville, Inc. – is seeking a Material Handler in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Urban Crafting – is seeking a Manufacturing/Production Worker-Flexible hours in Pomona, CA. $10.50-$11.00/hr.  indeed.com

iMacket – is seeking Testing/Shipping Associates in El Monte, CA. indeed.com

Geodis – is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer II in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Vitco Foods – is seeking a Van Driver/General Laborer in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

SEKO Logistics – is seeking a Warehouse Supervisor in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Centuri Construction Group – is seeking a Laborer Natural Gas Utilities Construction in Eastvale, CA. indeed.com

Centuri Construction Group – is seeking a Laborer-Road Paving in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Rite Staff, Inc. – is seeking a General Laborer in Corona, CA. $11.50-$12.50/hr.  indeed.com

West Coast Staffing – is seeking Packers in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Bridgestone America – is seeking a Material Handler in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Pro-Active Staffing – is seeking a General Laborer in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. $11.00-0$12.00/hr.  indeed.com

Spectrum – is seeking a Warehouse Specialist in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Wrawp Foods – is seeking a Production Worker in Pomona, CA. $10.50/hr.  indeed.com

Ryder – is seeking a Material Handler I in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Vistar – is seeking a Picker/Packer in Ontario, CA. $11.00-$12.00/hr.  indeed.com

Dura Technologies – is seeking a Material Handler and Packaging Associate in Bloomington, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Empire Tile & Marble Supply – is seeking an Inventory Data Entry Receiving Clerk/Accounting in San Bernardino, CA. $13.00-$14.00/hr.  indeed.com

Capstone Logistics – is seeking a Freight Handler in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Partners Personnel – is seeking a Material Handler in Mira Loma, CA. $21,840.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Mobile Modular Portable Storage – is seeking a Yard Worker with Forklift Experience in Mira Loma, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Jada Toys, Inc. – is seeking a Logistics Clerk in Industry City, CA. indeed.com

Copart, Inc. – is seeking an Automotive General Laborer in Colton, CA. indeed.com

Concord Foods, Inc. – is seeking a Warehouse Order Selector in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

Associate Direct Services, LLC – is seeking a 1st Production Worker in Mira Loma, CA. indeed.com

Suna Solutions – is seeking a Shipping and Receiving Clerk in Moreno Valley, CA. $13.00-$13.50/hr.  indeed.com

Office Star Products – is seeking a Shipping Clerk in Fontana, CA. $12.00/hr.  indeed.com

Humana, LLC – is seeking a Warehouse Order Selector (Grocery) in Ontario, CA. $14.00/hr.  indeed.com

La Tortilla Factory – is seeking a Warehouse Coordinator in Commerce, CA. $16.00-$18.00/hr.  indeed.com

Coca Cola Refreshments – is seeking a Merchandiser in Perris, Lake Elsinore and Hemet, CA. indeed.com

ProPipe – is seeking a Laborer in Walnut, CA. indeed.com

Associate Direct Services, LLC – is seeking a Pallet Puller/Packer in Industry, CA. indeed.com

Golden State Foods – is seeking a Warehouseman in La Puente, CA. indeed.com

Park West Companies – is seeking a Commercial Landscape Contractor Laborer in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. indeed.com

Hal Hays Construction, Inc. – is seeking a Construction Laborer in Riverside, CA. indeed.com

Smith & Sons Construction, Inc. – is seeking a General Construction Laborer in San Bernardino, CA. $14.00-$18.00/hr.  indeed.com

Esri – is seeking a Data Screen Test in Redlands, CA. indeed.com

The Progress Group – is seeking a Packing and Shipping Worker in Placentia, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

Paver Décor Masonry, Inc. – is seeking a Paver Installer Cutter Laborer in Calimesa, CA. $14.50-$20.00/hr.  indeed.com

FS Commercial Landscape, Inc. – is seeking Landscape General Laborers in Riverside, CA. $12.00/hr.  indeed.com

Wood Castle Construction, Inc. – is seeking General Labor in Covina, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

Sears Hometown & Outlet Stores – is seeking a Receiving Lead in West Covina, CA. indeed.com

Truck Viva – is seeking a Warehouse RMA/Return Specialist in Walnut, CA. indeed.com

Landcare – is seeking a Laborer-Landscaping in Riverside, CA. indeed.com

Chartwell Staffing Solutions – is seeking an Order Picker in Chino, CA. indeed.com

Agua Tri – is seeking a (P/T) Laborer in Ontario, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

XPO Logistics – is seeking a Material Handler in Redlands, CA. indeed.com

Pro-Active Staffing – is seeking Production Workers in Corona, CA. $11.00/hr.  indeed.com

Resource Employment Solutions – is seeking a Receiving Lead in Fontana, CA. indeed.com

Team Quest Staffing – is seeking a Production Worker in Chino, CA. $12.00/hr.  indeed.com

Affluent Staffing – is seeking a Production Worker in Ontario, CA. $10.50/hr.  indeed.com

Superior Employment Service – is seeking a Packer in Ontario, CA. $10.50/hr.  indeed.com

Staff Holdings, Inc. – is seeking a Bilingual Shipping Clerk in Ontario, CA. $13.00/hr.  indeed.com

Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration – is seeking a Program Specialist in Loma Linda, CA. $67,845.00-$88,194.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Walmart – is seeking an HR Manager Non-Sortable Fulfillment Center in Chino, CA. indeed.com

The UPS Store #5255 – is seeking a (P/T) Center Associate in Norco, CA. indeed.com

All Women’s Bootcamp – is seeking a Bootcamp Trainee in Upland, CA. $1200.00-$3000.00/mo.  indeed.com

Flex College Prep – is seeking an Admissions Consultant/Counselor in Diamond Bar, CA. $36,000.00-$60,000.00k/yr.  indeed.com

Ayres Hotel Ontario Mills Mall – is seeking a General Manager in Ontario, CA. indeed.com

To Receive This Flyer on Line Email Q Doswell, II at: qdd25@verizon.net

51st Social Lites, Inc. Beautillion Program Underway

Donna Little James, Social Lites, Inc. 51st Beautillion Chairperson

Donna Little James, Social Lites, Inc. 51st Beautillion Chairperson

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- The 51st Beautillion Program sponsored by the Social Lites, Inc. of San Bernardino has started. Young men seeking scholarship opportunities, in addition to being mentored by leaders in the community, are encouraged to attend the upcoming briefings to learn more about the program.  Parents are encouraged to attend briefing meetings to gain better insight about the program.

Bring a friend and tell a friend to join you in attending the two scheduled briefings.  Briefings will be held on Saturday, October 7 and October 14 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the San Bernardino Boys and Girls Club located at 1180 W. 9th Street in San Bernardino.

Mrs. Donna Little-James is the chairperson for the upcoming 51st Beautillion Program.  The program will officially start on October 22 and commence on March 24, 2018 at the National Orange Show in San Bernardino.

For more information, please call Donna Little-James at (909) 528-9793 or co-chairperson, Mrs. Bridgette Shaw at (909) 648-6165 or publicity chairperson, Mrs. Twillea Evans-Carthen at tevanscarthen@yahoo.com.

From Music Mogul to Top Real Estate Agent, Entrepreneur: Meet Jarret Ballard

Jarrett Ballard

Jarrett Ballard

By Naomi K. Bonman

As a Journalist, I get to do many exciting interviews and meet tons of people. There are some people who you’ll interview, and it will be just that an interview, but then there are those in a ‘select’ bunch that you just stay connected with and you watch their progress and growth over time. 

In 2011, I interviewed an up and coming boy band out of Chicago, Illinois but at the time had relocated to Los Angeles, California. Real Estate Agent, Jarret Ballard was apart of that group. So, to watch his journey from there to where he is now is inspiring and I know others will be blessed upon hearing his story on how he got started in the music business and how it prepared him in his current career as an entrepreneur in Real Estate and Finance. Ballard is on a mission in building wealth not only for himself, but in helping others, especially other minorities and millennials to build wealth as well. 

Check out and listen to the interview below and make sure to grab a pen and paper because I’m sure you will want to take notes to the advice that he is about to give you. 

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW

Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation Refuses to Let You Go Silent: 5th Annual Women’s Wellness Conference

By Angela M. Coggs

On Saturday, September 9, Young Women Empowerment Foundation (YWE) hosted their fifth Annual Women’s Wellness Conference at San Bernardino Community Hospital Henderson Auditorium. YWE invited family, friends, faith-based organizations, students and community supporters to their augural event that focused on emotional and physical health and wellness. It was a free event for women in the Inland Empire, although there were several men in attendance.

This year’s theme was Silence No More. It refers to not keeping silent regarding heart disease and domestic violence. Both areas of concern plague all people but especially minority women. The conference placed an emphasis on the prevention of heart disease as well as learning to live with and maintain if diagnosed by a physician. Additionally, domestic violence was addressed in a unique and compelling way.

Vickie Lee, Madeline Freeman and Arlington Rodgers II performed an emotional and riveting skit that centered on a real-to-life situation that happens every day behind closed doors. Lee’s performance brought many of the attendees to tears. It took the engaged audience into a deep and personal look inside a potential volatile situation. “She was so good. It seemed so real,” exclaimed Dr. Romeo Brooks, one of the keynote speaker of the conference. Brooks stated that he was so moved and impressed with the entire performance.

Brooks and YWE Board

Brooks and YWE Board

It was an eventful and interactive conference. The women in attendance had the opportunity to participate in interactive demonstrations and hear life changing testimonials from other women on heart disease and domestic violence. 

Originally, there were three keynote speakers for the wellness conference who focus would be based on issues that are important and relevant to heart disease and domestic violence. The keynote and guest testimonial speakers were Dr. Romeo Brooks, Ph.D. (Keynote) Herbalist, Iridologist, Natural Hygienist and Naturopathic Medicine, Roots Nutrition and Melinda Cuellar, Representative Divine Connections, H.O.P.E.

Gwen and Assemblywoman Eloise Gómez Reyes

Gwen and Assemblywoman Eloise Gómez Reyes

The other scheduled keynote speaker was supposed to be Joyce Fairman CEO/Founder of Hearts of Color. Regrettable, she passed prior the conference. However, as they continue to mourn the loss of the beloved friend and heart health advocate Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation honored her legacy with her mentee, Deborah Smith, acknowledging her “never stop” attitude and how she continued to encourage to reach her potential and to find her passion. After her noteworthy peek into their personal relationship, YWE introduced Fairman to the captivated audience via slide show and they watched a montage of pictures that revealed her caring and positive spirit. Testimony from her close friend, Sharon Smith- Knight, shown Fairman’s humorous side. Everyone in attendance participated in and observed a moment of silence during Fairman’s original scheduled speaking time. 

Cuellar spoke about domestic violence and how Divine Connections, H.O.P.E.’s mission is to offer guidance, empowerment, education and resources for building healthy relationships. The attendees were introduced to Option House by Deborah Smith, which provides information, resources and services about domestic violence. A question and answer segment was held at the end of the presentations.

Vickie Lee and Dr. Brooks

Vickie Lee and Dr. Brooks

Dr. Brooks discussed how to prevent and live with heart disease. He communicated how the physical body is not only the expressed image of the invisible mind but is also the visible barometer of what occurs in our mental, emotional and spiritual bodies. He connected physical wellness to our mental health. He emphasized that we need to eliminate all the bad things our bodies accumulate.

In addition to providing useful health and wellness information at the conference, the attendees was also invited to get physical during the live line dance demonstrations by Heart and Soul’s Harriette Coggs- Stuckey. The line dance demonstrations has been a huge success for the past three years and this year was no different. Coggs- Stuckey energetic personality match her energetic performance. Everyone participated in the dancing segment and enjoyed the heart pumping activity.

Heart and Soul 2017

Heart and Soul 2017

YWE serves to strengthen the character of young women of high school age in the San Bernardino City region of the Inland Empire in Southern California. Young Women’s Empowerment was founded by CEO Gwendolyn Dowdy- Rodgers. The mission of our program is to empower these young women to achieve at their highest potential, particularly in education, and to instill in them a commitment to return to their community as leaders and mentors.

Vickie Lee and Madeline Freeman

Vickie Lee and Madeline Freeman

The Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation (YWE) is dedicated to strengthening the self-esteem, character, integrity and capacity of young women ages 12-21 so that they may achieve their highest potential. YWE accomplishes its purpose through strategic partnerships with other organizations. YWE is guided by ethics and principles which exhibit respect for cultural diversity.

“No Corners-Cut, No Pacifying and No Round-about Way!”

Lou Coleman-Yeboah

Lou Coleman-Yeboah

By Lou Coleman-Yeboah

That’s right! No ifs, ands, or buts. It means what it says and says what it means. I want you to know that the Ministry that God has entrusted to me is just that, “No Corners-Cut, No Pacifying and No Round-about Way… Period!  So if you’re looking for a people pleaser or someone to condone your wrong, you might as well STOP READING RIGHT NOW! Put it down, because I am not the one. I am not a people pleaser, neither do I condone wrong and I don’t scratch itching ears, and I don’t care who you are. I am sent neither by human commission nor from human authorities, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead. [Galatians 1: 10-12]. When it comes to God’s Word there is no tolerance. There is no variation in God; He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. You got that! Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, [Acts 7:51]. Ye serpents, generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? [Matthew 23:33]. As [Jeremiah 2:19] says, “Your own wickedness will correct you, and your backslidings will rebuke you.

I want you to know that I have been charge before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his kingdom to preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. [2 Timothy 4:1]. To speak the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth! Now your ungodly friends may cheer you on towards destruction. They may bequeath the kiss of flattery. They may coddle your ego, telling you what you want to hear. Well forget about it, ain’t going to happen here! Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel [1Cor. 9:16].  I want you to know that Jesus was not afraid to wound his friends for the healing of their souls.  He rebuked followers and Pharisee alike. He would not have hestitated to say things that would offend us. He was without guile, without flattery. He called a spade a spade, and sin “sin.” Teaching this way is not optional. He said to me, “I charge thee, [Lou]. I am commanding you. I am ordering you to preach the Word and to be instant in season, out of season.” In season is when it’s popular. Out of season is when they don’t want to hear the truth. Then he said this: “Reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.” What is reprove- To tell someone that they’re wrong. What is rebuke -To reprimand; strongly warn; restrain. Exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. What is Exhort- To advise; to warn; to caution. It says with all long-suffering and doctrine. Doctrine is teaching the Bible.

I tell you the proverbial warnings against dismissing brotherly correction are staggering. The one who rejects reproof leads others astray (Proverbs 10:17), is stupid (Proverbs 12:1) and a fool (Proverbs 15:5), and despises himself (Proverbs 15:32). “Whoever hates reproof will die” (Proverbs 15:10), and “poverty and disgrace come to him” (Proverbs 13:18). But just as astounding are the promises of blessing to those who embrace rebuke. “Whoever heeds reproof is honored” (Proverbs 13:18) and prudent (Proverbs 15:5). “He who listens to reproof gains intelligence” (Proverbs 15:32), loves knowledge (Proverbs 12:1), will dwell among the wise (Proverbs 15:31), and is on the path of life (Proverbs 10:17) — because “the rod and reproof give wisdom” (Proverbs 29:15) and “the reproofs of discipline are the way of life” (Proverbs 6:23).

“Whoaaaa-o-o-oooooo-ohhhhh….Do you want a revolution? Whoop Whoop! I said do you want a Revolution? “…Sick and tired of the Church, talkin’ religion….But then they talk about each other, make a decision… So don’t be caught slippin’, don’t be trippin’ brother … Even when we go they say we move too much, we do too much, if you step against us, then you lose too much ain’t no stoppin’ what we doin’ when the spirit is movin’ don’t be hatin’ what we doin’ I’m the vessel he’s usin’ everywhere I be they try to judge me, they try to shake me they try to budge me but they can’t break me ’cause I’m down with Christ…” [Revolution Lyrics – Kirk Franklin]

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. [Galatians 1:10]

You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet!

 

 

Music Highlight: Soul Men, Joe Tex

joe-tex-come-in-this-house-the-19551962-recordings-cdBy Linden Beckford Jr.

When people speak about Soul Singers from the past, Joe Tex is seldom mentioned. This writer is hoping to help change that. Joe Tex was born Joseph Arrington Jr in Rogers, Texas on August 8, 1935. His mother moved to Baytown, Texas after she and Joe Sr. divorced. While growing up in Baytown, Joe Tex sang in a Pentecostal Church choir. This is very interesting to note. When one listens to the various songs of Joe Tex, you can clearly hear the church influence.

Joe performed at the Apollo Theatre as a result of winning $300 from a talent show in Houston, Texas. He won four weeks in a row. This led to him being discovered by Henry Glover, who offered him a contract with King Records. However, his mother wanted him to graduate high school first. Mr. Glover agreed to wait a year before signing him at age 19.

King Records was an American leading independent record company in Cincinnati, Ohio founded in the 1940s by Syd Nathan. Artists such as Hank Ballard, James Brown, and Etta James recorded for King Records. Joe Tex first started recording music in 1955. It has been said that James Brown would borrow microphone tricks from Joe.

While Joe Tex was at the height of his career, he was invited to a Nation of Islam temple in Miami, Florida in 1966. Troy X was the Minister of that temple at that time. Joe Tex accepted the teachings of Elijah Muhammad. Elijah Muhammad appoints him as Minister in the Nation of Islam in 1972. His name is changed to Yusef Hazziez. After Elijah Muhammad passed in February 1975, Joe Tex followed Warith Deen Muhammad (son of Elijah Muhammad) when he took the Nation of Islam in another direction. He went back to music with a band called 2nd Resurrection. Joe Tex had a smash hit in 1977 called, ”Aint Gonna Bump No More (With No Big Fat Woman).”

Sadly, Joe Tex was in debt and very depressed. He passed away at his home in Navasta, Texas at age 47 from a heart attack. It will be important to remember this man as one of the great pioneers of Soul music! Long live the soul of Joe Tex!

Charles Owens, pioneering African American golfer, dies at 85

Charles Owens, inventor of the long putter, poses with one of the clubs that he designed and used on tour on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at Rogers Park Golf Course in Tampa, Fla. (Photo by Craig Litten)                              NYTCREDIT: Craig Litten for The New York Times

Charles Owens, inventor of the long putter, poses with one of the clubs that he designed and used on tour on Thursday, November 8, 2012 at Rogers Park Golf Course in Tampa, Fla. (Photo by Craig Litten) NYTCREDIT: Craig Litten for The New York Times

Charles L. Owens, a trailblazing African-American golfer and the first person to use the yip-reducing long “belly” putter in competition, died September 7, 2017, in his hometown of Winter Haven, Florida. He was 85.

“We are extremely proud of our father’s life-long dedication to the sport of golf,” Owens’ family said after his death. “His contributions to the sport helped open it to everyone regardless of age, race or disability.”

Born in 1932, Owens grew up in the Jim Crow South, the son of Fred Owens, a groundskeeper at the Winter Haven Golf Course. He took up golf as a child by hitting bottle caps in the street with broken pine branches. That’s when he develops his unique cross-handed grip – an attempt to imitate golfers he saw on the course — that he would use the rest of his life.

During paratrooper training at Fort Bragg, N.C., in 1956, Owens shattered his left knee when his parachute failed to deploy properly. The resulting injury left him with a fused knee and a distinctive limp. It was the first of several leg injuries that would cause his career to ebb and flow over the years. After working as an assistant golf pro at the South Shore Golf Club on Staten Island, N.Y., Owens joined the United Golf Association in 1967. He earned his PGA Tour card in 1969 along with a sponsorship by Wilson Sporting Goods.

In 1971, he won the Kemper Asheville Open before being sidelined by another leg injury. In 1977, he became the head pro at Tampa’s Rogers Park Golf Course and oversaw a major overhaul of the publicly owned course. Built in 1952, it was for decades the only place in Tampa where African American golfers could play. The course was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2015.

Owens returned to the pro tour in 1986 and won the Seniors Tour twice that year. It was during one of those matches that he broke out his 52-inch-tall Slim Jim — his own version of the “belly” putter invented decades before but never used in competition. His version reached to his sternum, letting him putt despite a stiff back.

In 1987, he was inducted into the Florida Sports Hall of Fame and received the Golf Writers Association’s Ben Hogan Award, given to a golfer who succeeds despite a physical handicap.

More recently, he was inducted into the African American Golfers Hall of Fame in 2007; published his autobiography, “I Hate to Lose,” in 2008; and was featured in “Uneven Fairways,” a 2009 Golf Channel documentary about the contributions made by African American golfers.

Owens was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease within the past year, after which his health quickly deteriorated.

His funeral was on Saturday, September 16, in Winter Haven.

Hitting the Stage: “Paul Robeson – A One Man Show”

one man show

RIVERSIDE, CA- We hear about “one woman shows” quite often, but rarely we hear or see a One-Man Show. The Paul Robeson-One Man Show is the number one ‘One Man Show’ touring in the United States, the Caribbean and Central America. This is the most requested Multi-cultural educational show on the American and Caribbean Educational Circuit and the favorite on the topics of Diversity, Compassion, African pride, Social Justice and the music of the Harlem Renaissance.

This entertaining, laugh out loud, music filled show with audience participation, covering his friendships with Albert Einstein, Dubois, Langston Hughes, Cab Calloway, Jomo Kenyatta, Kwame Nkrumah and many others who contributed to the cultural movement known as the Harlem Renaissance.

The show will be premiering this Saturday, September 23 at 6 p.m. at the Heritage High School Theatre located at 26001 Briggs Road in Romoland. Tickets can be purchased through the Riverside County Black Chamber of Commerce at www.riversidecountybcc.org.