Cora Jackson-Fossett

LOS ANGELES, CA- LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS, an integrated marketing communications agency, recently announced Cora Jackson-Fossett as a senior advisor. Fossett will be the liaison between key decision makers in the City of Los Angeles and LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS.  Her work for the City of Los Angeles has earned her five L.A. Area Emmy nominations for producing videos/DVDs about public works activities and operations.

“I’ve known Cora for close to 30 years, as a friend and former client,” says LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS CEO Mr. Kim L. Hunter. “We have a long standing history based off trust and I look forward to having her as senior advisor for the agency.”

Prior to joining the agency, Fossett worked for the City of Los Angeles for more than 25 years, bringing significant expertise in community and media relations. She served as the public director for the Los Angeles Department of Public Works, in which she planned, developed and executed media relations, community outreach, employee communications, marketing communications and much more.

Fossett is an active member in her community where she serves as the director of the public relations commission at Brookins Community AME Church as well as the religion editor and staff writer for the Los Angeles Sentinel newspaper. Cora has also been  commended for her work through various awards, including 3^rd place for best church page by the National Newspaper Publisher’s Association in 2014, Fire and Ice Fashions Outstanding Orator Award in 2014, National Association of University Women Hall of Fame Award in 2011, and Los Angeles Business Journal’s 2008 Women Who Make A Difference award among many others.

“I’m excited to join Kim and his team.  I look forward to the contributions I will help make to the multicultural communities and the city of Los Angeles,” said Fossett, former public information director II for the Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Bureau of Sanitation.

Cora earned a bachelor’s degree at Indiana University, completed graduate courses at Columbia College, and received an honorary doctorate in Philosophy from California University of Theology.

DALLAS, TX- Original Tuskegee airman and fighter pilot, Lieutenant Calvin Spann, passed away on Sunday, September 6, 2015 at his home surrounded by his family. He was 90 years old.

Lt. Spann was an original Tuskegee Airman and fighter pilot with the 100th Fighter Squadron of the 332nd Fighter Group. Spann received his wings from the Tuskegee Flight School as a part of the graduating class of 44G, an elite squadron of African-American pilots. As a member of the United States Army Air Corps, he served in Europe during World War II, where he flew 26 combat missions, including a 1,600-mile round trip mission on March 24, 1945 from Ramitelli, Italy to Berlin, Germany to destroy the Daimler-Benz manufacturing plant, according to the Dallas Love Field Frontiers of Flight Museum.

On February 28, 2006, the U.S. Congress approved a bill authorizing President George W. Bush to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Tuskegee Airmen, the highest civilian honor awarded by the United States. The 2012 Hollywood blockbuster movie, Red Tails, was based on the African-American pilots in the Tuskegee training program.

Prior to his death, Lt. Spann was still very active in his community, speaking at schools, churches and organizations about the Tuskegee Airmen experience and how their courage and valor helped them to triumph. During these speeches, he encouraged students to make a commitment to excel in the study of mathematics and science, reminding them that through preparation and perseverance, they can succeed.

Featured in picture from L/R: Mrs. Eydie Tillie-Wade and Samuel Baker

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- The Social Lites, Incorporated recently hosted an informational meeting at New Hope Family Life Center in San Bernardino. This meeting was well attended by young men who desire to take part in the 49th Beautillion Season.  Mrs. Eydie Tillie-Wade is the 49^th Beautillion Chairman who provided a meaningful and motivational message to the young men present in addition to members of the Social Lites, including President, Mrs. Bettye Brewster.

In attendance was Mr. Samuel Baker, a senior at San Gorgonio High School who embraced the words exchanged from Mrs. Tillie-Wade.  Mr. Baker indicated he looks forward in participating in the upcoming Beautillion season and stated he was happy he had attended the meeting.

The next meeting will be held on Saturday, October 10 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at New Hope Family Life Center located at 1505 W. Highland Avenue in San Bernardino.  Young men who desire to take part in this life changing experience are encouraged to attend.

For more information, please contact Eydie Tillie-Wade at eytillie@gmail.com or (951) 203-2096 or Bettye Brewster at bettybrewster@yahoo.com or (951) 204-0022 or Twillea Evans-Carthen, Publicity and Beautillion Committee Member at (909) 234-4989 or tevanscarthen@yahoo.com

Men Of Faith In Action at the ‘Heal The Ville’ event last month.

Edited By Naomi K. Bonman

After losing his mother, National Best Selling Author Linda Hudson Smith, and his wife of 7 years and music partner, Neccola “Justilady” Smith, eleven months apart from Lupus and Cancer, Justified was left to fend for himself while raising his two young daughters, Synia and Scotlyn. Facing the many challenges that piggy back single parenthood, Justified tapped into his Faith and relationship with God to climb the mountains placed in front of him. In a situation where most young men would buckle under pressure, Justified rose to the occasion and stayed in the game and excelled.

During one of the most difficult times in his life, Mr. Smith penned and recorded his single “Blessed” which speaks on the everyday blessings that most humans lose sight of while enduring trials and tribulations. Lines such as, “Even though My Whip Aint Brand New Off The Lot, I Thank God That I’m Dipping And I Aint Gotta Walk,” not only engages listeners, but also reminds them to count their blessings and focus on the brighter side of their struggles.

Justified has rounded up an army of men who refer to themselves as the M.O.F.I.A, better known Men Of Faith In Action. These men have come together to bring a blessing to the city of Victorville where Justified currently resides by launching an operation called “Heal the Ville”. Under ‘Heal the Ville’, M.O.F.I.A. recently blessed the city last month with a distribution of free diapers, baby wipes, toilet paper, paper towels, maxi pads, back to school supplies and clothing to those who stood in need of a blessing. Over 300 people were present at the event.

The next event that Justified will be at is the “Daughter’s Lives Matter Awards” held at Fiesta Village on Saturday, September 19 at 10 a.m. Mr. Smith will be performing his singles “Promise to My Young Ones” and “Blessed” alongside his daughters. “Daughters Lives Matter” is led by Terry Boykins, CEO and Founder of Street Positive. Boykins has taken Justified under his wings and has been a mentor in showing him the ropes and leading him in the direction of his true calling which is to be a voice of truth for the streets. For those who would love to attend the event this Saturday, Fiesta Village is located at 1405 E. Washington Avenue in Colton. Please visit www.streetpositive.com for more information.

YWE Founder Gwen Rodgers, Rev. Bronica Martindale-Taylor, Yolanda Markham, Sharon Ellis, and Dr. Margaret Hill.

By Angela M. Coggs

On Saturday, September 5, 2015 Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation hosted their 3^rd Annual Wellness event in the Henderson Auditorium at San Bernardino Community Hospital. The event began at 8am continental breakfast for all the attendees. The event, “Women Helping 2 Empower Women (W.H.E.W.)”, invited women to participate in a day focused on Sickle Cell Awareness and overall health. The idea was to highlight emotional, physical, and spiritual health. The event featured keynote speaker, Dr. Beverly Crockett, featured speaker, Farron Dozier, and the testimonials from Therese Adjivon, Carletta Loftin, and Janice Freeman-Neubel.

The event was kicked off by Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation founder, Gwen Rodgers’ warm welcome.  The call to action from Rodgers to become aware and vigilant about health and fitness was heard loud and clear thoroughout the day. Activities focused exercising the body beginning with Reverend Bronica Martindale- Taylor physical activity called, “The Harvest Dance.” Everyone was out of their seats and participated wholeheartedly.

Feature speaker Farron Dozier, a Sickle Cell Advocate and radio personality on WDC Radio Show, spoke passionately about living with sickle cell trait after learning he had Sickle Cell when he was 29 years old when was he a Sergeant First Class in the United States Army.  Dozier was discharged from the military because he was no longer physically fit for service. His youngest of three daughters (Deja Dozier) was also diagnosed with sickle cell at a young age.  His story reverberated with the audience as he spoke about the pain he endured growing up and it being dismissed as growing pains. He discussed his experience living with the disease known as, “The Silent Killer,” which primarily affects the African American population but has been known to affect other nationalities.

Dozier’s organization, “WHATZ DA COUNT,” and his campaign, “What’z in your Genes?” provides sickle cell trait awareness and to re-educate the community about the sickle cell trait and thalassemia trait.

After Dozier spoke about the importance of getting tested for Sickle Cell, over 30 attendees signed up and were tested by medical professionals from Community Hospital where a room was set up to draw blood. Attendees, speakers, vendors as well as YWE Board Members were tested and the results will be sent to them in the mail in the next few weeks. Another highlight of the day was the powerful testimonials.

Therese’ Adjivon is a young woman who is determined to change lives. She was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anemia at the young age of 3. Although she has struggled with obstacles in her life, her positive outlook was sensed by everyone on the room. She credited her mother for allowing her to be raised in her home and not in a hospital room. Despite the hurdles she has to endure she still finds time to be a mentor and coordinator for an organization called FOOCUS2 and also an advocate for patients that battle Sickle Cell and other rare disorders. Adjivon spoke with passion and her words resonated with the audience when she said, “Just because I have Sickle Cell doesn’t mean that it has me.”

Carletta Loftin began her testimonial with playing the beginning of Kirk Franklin’s song, “Declaration (This Is It!)”. She said that the words meant a lot to her. She started her testimonial by saying she was a mother of three but later indicated she was diagnosed with Bell Palsy/ Blood Disorder which prevented her from carrying her first two children to term. Her daughter Carrington is her little miracle baby. Her story of determination and survival was deeply felt by the attendees. Loftin words of purpose and encouragement touched the audience in such an uplifting manner that it inspired many to stand to their feet and shout. She is a fighter and is not willing to give in or give up on the fight.

When Janice Freeman-Neuble, a neo soul artist originally from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, stepped up to the podium to share her story she began to sing “I Won’t Complain.” Her voice was so strong and her vocals filled the room. The words alone evoked heartfelt emotions and she shed a few tears along with the audience. After gathering herself she simply stated, “For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been sick.” She shared her life and her struggle. She recounted how doctors gave her mother six weeks to plan her funeral when she was a young child. “I have been struggling with Lupus since 2007, but I have had severe illnesses as far back as I can remember,” Neuble proclaimed. She was very young when she was diagnosed with a kidney infection and she had meningitis in the ninth grade. It has been a very long struggle for her but she counts her husband Dion, daughter Hannah, and stepson Dylan along with her strong spirituality as her strength as she takes each day at a time.

“Her voice, which permeated the air, echoed her life experience. Every melodious word was an expression of pain and appreciation, of struggle and triumph of frustration and confidence,” Kimberly Garret said of Freeman-Neuble. “She reminded us all that God’s mercy and goodness is sufficient. Her strength brought me to tears.” At a glance, prayer circles were seen throughout the room. It was defiantly an emotional event, but it was also a safe place to be vulnerable and let go.

Dr. Margaret Hill, San Bernardino City Unified School District Board of Education Vice President, was present and also participated in the fitness activities of the day. When Harriette Coggs- Stuckey, Founder/Director of Heart and Soul Line Dance, invited the participants to learn a dance/exercise she choreographed, Dr. Hill was on the floor with everyone else. Several routine were taught and practiced by the group and everyone appeared to enjoy themselves. “I enjoy workshops where there’s something for everyone. Seeing the young and the mature on the same dance floor at the same time was phenomenal. I guess it’s called building age cultures,” said Hill when asked her perception of the day’s event.

A Step Ahead Entertainment demonstrated a Chicago Steppin’ dance routine choreographed to Janet Jackson’s new song, “No Sleeep”, that was exceptional. The men and women looked radiant in their all white outfits.  Afterwards the dancers gave step-by-step instructions to the audience and many of them took to the dance floor and tried the dance moves. Everyone involved had a really good time.

Just Move Consulting Director and Lead Trainer, Author, Health and Fitness Specialist, Erin Young, invited a few audience members to come to the front of the auditorium to practice a few exercises that she demonstrated. She explained that one does not have to go to the gym in order to work out and be fit. Audience members asked questions and participated in the activity. Using a medicine ball, resistance bands, and chair she taught the group effective and useful.

Keynote speaker Dr. Beverly Crockett

Keynote speaker, Dr. Beverly Scott, author of, “Just Run the Race- You Are a Champion,” closed the event with a motivational speech about running your race, fighting your personal battles, surviving challenges, and being champions. She shared her personal struggles and showed how this disease (Sickle Cell) affects everyone including her as she shared about a family member who struggles with this disease and how they elects to deal with it. She encouraged and uplifted those in attendance by saying that no matter what someone goes through, we can beat the odds and come out victorious.

Overall, the event was a success. Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation raised the bar when it comes to wellness events in San Bernardino and the Inland Empire. Attendee Sharon Ellis stated that “the event was well organized, time conscious, informative and a lot of fun.” The community event was inspirational, a worthwhile cause focused on fitness for the mind body, and soul, which provided a day of awareness, soul searching, and unity. “I was pleased with the integrity of the group of women sponsoring the event. This was my first time at a Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation event and health awareness clinic in San Bernardino. I was a vendor at the event but I was also able to participate in the informational and physical fitness sections of the day,” said vendor Garbrille Stuart, from 1 Pound at a Time. “I appreciate YWE for the opportunity to allow me to showcase my organization and learn the importance of health, wellness, and the importance of getting screened for Sickle Cell.  YWE did a fantastic job. I commend them for their leadership and professionalism. I was grateful and moved by all the speakers for sharing their knowledge.”

“I am excited about what the YWE’s Board is doing to promote wellness for women in San Bernardino. None of this could happen without the continuous support from the community and our sponsors, such as Dignity, Edison International, and Kaiser Permanente,” said Gwen Rodgers, Founder of Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation. “W.H.E.W. was a powerful event and there are more to come. I’m also looking forward to Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation’s 10 year anniversary, “Night of Elegance” Fundraiser in January. Stay tuned and like the Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation Facebook page.”

Ms. Kim-Evette Anthony and Lou Coleman

By Lou Coleman

Lou Coleman and Pastor Robert L. Fairley, D. Minister of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Talking about being blessed to be among The Who’s who in the Inland Empire, it was indeed a privilege for me to be in such awesome company; thanks to my dear friend Ms. Frances Grice. It was a fantastic evening mingling with inspiring and influential leaders. The music by J. Bokins was relaxing; the food was delicious; the atmosphere was inviting and the rest is history. If you missed it, you would not want to miss it next year; it was exquisite! The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation Committee did a splendid job. Special thanks to Ms. Margaret Hill, you are appreciated!

Just to name a few of the who’s who that were in attendance included: Pastor Robert L. Fairley, D. Min- New Hope Missionary Baptist Church; Ms. Kim-Evette Anthony – Urban Philanthropy Institute – Humanitarian of the Year; Mr. David Clark– Am I My Brother’s Keeper – Yes I Am!; Ms. Gwendolyn Dowdy-Rodgers – Newly Appointed San Bernardino School Board; Rikkie Van Johnson – Mayor Pro Temp, City of San Bernardino; Ms. Genevieve Echols, President of San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation; Ms. Kathryn Ervin – California State University San Bernardino; Mr. Terrance Stone – Young Visionaries Youth Academy; Rev. Arnelia F. Carpenter – Assoc. Minister – New Hope Missionary Baptist Church; Ms. Desiree McKenzie – SBBCF 2015 Miss Black San Bernardino; Mr. Troy Ingram, 1^st Vice President – Black Rose Co-Chairperson; Juanita H. Scott; Carter High School Junior ROTC; Chief Joseph Paulino; Officer Marcus Pesquera; Chino Fire Foundation; Kathryn Ervin; John Coleman; and the list goes on, and on, and on.

Westside Story Newspaper congratulates ALL recipients!

Lou Coleman and community photographer John Coleman

Margret Hill and Lou Coleman

Rafael Rawls and Lou Coleman

Lou Coleman (Left) and Ms. Gwendolyn Dowdy-Rodgers (right)

Lou Coleman and Mr. David Clark

Lou Coleman

By Lou Coleman

I want you to know that, that is the explicit meaning of the words of Jesus in [Matthew 7:21-23] “…Depart from me, ye workers of iniquity…”  I tell you multitude of people who expect to go to Heaven will go to Hell. Thousands of “good” people, “moral” people, church members, teachers, prophets, apostles, priests and preachers will find themselves lost when they expected to be saved; condemned when they expected approval; cast out of Heaven when they expected to be received into eternal bliss. They are professors without possession. They are church members, perhaps, but not Christians. They are reformed but not reborn. They have lamps but no oil. For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. Dangerous Deception!  Then the Lord said to me, “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds.” [Jeremiah 14:14] [Matthew 24:24]. This is precisely the nature of deception Paul referred to in [2Cor. 11:13-15] “You put up with it easily enough. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness.”  I tell you their end will be what their actions deserve.

Take Heed…. Do not be deceived… Spend time studying God’s Word; know and understand what it says. Remember what God said in [Hosea 4:6] “My people perish for lack of knowledge. That’s why [Proverbs 4:5] encourages us to, “Get wisdom and get understanding… for we cannot rely on just listening to sermons and teachings from Bible teachers and pastors.  We must let the Scriptures speak to us directly; and the only way to do that is to study them for ourselves. Listen don’t take my word for anything… don’t believe anything I say… “Test everything.” Check it out for yourself and see if it aligns with what the Bible teaches [1John 4:1] [1Thess 5:19-22] because as Jesus drew near to the end of the Sermon on the Mount, He took the time to remind us of the seriousness of our salvation. He wanted all who heard Him to be sure that they were genuinely converted. See the Bible clearly warns that in the last days strange doctrines will come forth – introducing another Jesus, another Spirit, another Gospel [Matt. 24:4-5] [2 Tim. 3:1-5] [1Thess 2:9-10]. Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves [Matt 7:15].

It is my prayer that you will allow the Spirit of God to speak to your hearts today. It may be that there is some reading this that has never been truly saved. Perhaps this is the day when you will meet Jesus as your Savior. Maybe there are those who think they are saved, but in truth, you’re not. I am praying that God will speak to your heart today! Perhaps there are those who know you have never been converted. There is no better time than right now to get that taken care of….  If what you believe to be true turned out not to be true, wouldn’t you like to know about it?  Do Not Be Deceived… Give all you have to get true knowledge.

Mark Allen Felton

LONG BEACH, CA- The Pepperdine University Black Alumni Council (BAC) will host the 3^rd annual “BAC SOUND INVESTMENT BENEFIT CONCERT” scholarship concert on Saturday, October 3.  The event will take place at the Hotel Maya in Long Beach (700 Queensway Drive, Long Beach, CA) from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.  The goal of the event is to raise scholarship funds for African American students at the five schools of Pepperdine University.

The benefit concert will be headlined by the multi-faceted and award-winning saxophonist Mark Allen Felton. A Chicago native, Felton began paving his musical pathway at the tender age of 11. He was inspired by such great artists as Grover Washington, Jr. and Earth, Wind and Fire, and continued honing his talent throughout high school and college. Felton has written several hundreds of songs including the theme song for the nationally syndicated radio show Radioscope. His musical career has spanned more than 20 years – playing around the country and throughout the world, including Japan, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Felton has shared the stage with many accomplished artists including: Al Jarreau, Oleta Adams, Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, Kenny G., Kirk Whalum, Dave Koz, Billy Preston, Marcus Miller, Lalah Hathaway, and Jeffrey Osbourne, to name a few.

Groove Theory

Entertainment will also include performances by jazz band The Groove Alliance (TGA), featuring Sheri Whitten (lead vocals); Fleming Robinson (lead vocals and guitar); Robert “B-Bow” Abraham (drums and vocals); Reginald Varnado (keyboard and vocals); Martineau “Mott” Perkins (saxophone and vocals); and Ollie Elder, Jr. (bass). TGA was formed in 2001 by bassist Ollie Elder, Jr., as “Base Six.” His vision for the band was to perform instrumental smooth jazz using the saxophone, piano, and bass as lead voices. Responding to demands of Rhythm and Blues (R&B) dance tunes, the band recruited songbird Sheri Whitten and became known as TGA. To date the band delivers high quality R&B music. Their sound is a combination of jazz, pop, and reggae.

In addition to enjoying the awesome sounds of Felton and TGA, attendees will have the opportunity to dance, mix and mingle, while supporting a great cause.  Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the event website at http://bit.ly/2015soundinvestment

RIVERSIDE, CA- Riverside County will observe the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States with a memorial ceremony on Friday (9/11) at the county government center in downtown Riverside.

The memorial will begin at 9:30 a.m. outside the County Administrative Center. Scheduled speakers include Supervisors Marion Ashley and Chuck Washington, Sheriff Stan Sniff and Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Chief John Hawkins. There also will be a Ringing of the Bell ceremony, conducted by a Fire Department honor guard to recognize those who died, including first responders who perished while trying to rescue other victims. Members of the public are invited to attend the ceremony at 4080 Lemon St. in Riverside.

Vickie Baumbach, DBH Alcohol and Drug Services Program Manager II, and Veronica Kelley, DBH Assistant Director, at 2014 Recovery Happens Event.

ONTARIO, CA- The Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) and its community partners invite the public to help celebrate National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month by attending the 12^th Annual Recovery Happens event on Saturday, Sept.19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, 800 N. Archibald Avenue in Ontario.  This no-cost event is made possible through the support of local community partners, agencies and businesses.

Recovery Happens will feature children’s activities, family games, entertainment, free refreshments (while supplies last) and agency booths providing educational resources. A special tribute will take place for individuals in recovery, their families and friends, and those working in the field of prevention, substance use disorder treatment and recovery support services.

This collaborative event between DBH’s Alcohol and Drug Services (ADS) and community partners is designed to increase awareness and understanding of substance use issues while celebrating recovery. Recovery Month is sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and was adopted by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors in 2011. This year’s theme, “Join the Voices for Recovery: Visible, Vocal, Valuable!” emphasizes the value of peer support in educating, mentoring, and helping others.

“Recovery happens every day. In September, we celebrate the journey taken by community members, family and friends, towards wellness, prevention, treatment and recovery,” said DBH Assistant Director, Veronica Kelley. “DBH is honored to host this annual event to support those we serve.”

DBH’s ADS provides a full range of substance use disorder prevention, treatment and education for communities and residents of San Bernardino County through a network of community based organizations and County-operated clinics with the goal of promoting prevention, intervention, recovery and resiliency for individuals and families. Through ADS, DBH is supporting the Countywide Vision by working to create a county in which those who reside and invest can prosper and achieve well-being.

For additional information regarding this event or DBH ADS services, contact Lois Mergener at (909) 386-8262 (711 for TTY users) or lois.mergener@dbh.sbcounty.gov or visit www.sbcounty.gov/dbh/News/.