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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

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

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

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

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

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.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Time for Change Foundation (TFCF) is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new location. The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Friday, September 22, from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. at 2164 N. Mt. View Avenue in San Bernardino. The community is invited to come out and celebrate this momentous accomplishment.

The celebration will be attended by distinguished guests and will include a short presentation, tours, and hors d’oeuvres.

Since 2002, TFCF has been at the forefront of eliminating homelessness through evidence based programs and housing. To date, it has helped over 1,020 homeless women and children in the San Bernardino County reach self-sufficiency in addition to reunifying 249 children with their mothers.

“We are overwhelmed with joy over this new addition to our agency, said TFCF Founder and Executive Director, Kim Carter. “This is another key self-sustaining layer to our overall operations.”

The new location will allow TFCF to grow its evidence based programs and housing services which is currently serving 11 different cities.

“Without the support of our donors, this dream wouldn’t have come to fruition,” said Vanessa Perez, TFCF Associate Director. “It’s so exciting to be a part of an agency that is truly impacting lives.”

You must RSVP by emailing Lisa Moreno at Lmoreno@Timeforchangefoundation.org. Please note: there will be a strict adherence to the RSVP guest list. 

Edited by Naomi K. Bonman

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- On Saturday, September 17, over 1500 people attended the Community Block Party hosted by San Bernardino Pastors United. In addition to the 1500 attendees, over 30 agreed to turn their life around and accepted Christ into their lives.

“The community residence was very pleased,” Rev. Reginald Young stated. “Each family displayed courtesy and kindness during the event. The event was very peaceful, no violence.”

Prominent community leaders also came out to support the event, which includes San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis, Assemblymember Elosie Reyes, Assemblymember Marc Steinorth, Councilmembers Bessine Littlefield and John Valdivia and City Attorney Gary Saenz.

There were also a host of community organizations and media outlets that supported the event from the beginning to the end. United Nations of Consciousness were resourceful in utilizing their space for goods to be stored to and from there. Community Action Partnership’s (CAP) office donated 8 pallets of non-perishable items. The host church, Temple Missionary Baptist Church, helped with the set-up, food zone, registration, program flow, and event clean-up. The Way Outreach provided volunteers that assisted in making sure the day ran smoothly

Pastor Raymond Turner and Pastor Freddy brought the message and the alter call and Pastor Raul kept the vibes going as the DJ. 

“Everyone was touched by the service and love shown,” Rev. Young said. “The children were extremely jubilant, from the shoes, bouncer, face painting, and food they were happy.”

The next community block party is scheduled for Saturday, March 17 at Arden Park in San Bernardino. The question also came up whether to have another block party before the year is out. The SB Pastors United are scheduled to meet on Wednesday, October 11 at 10 a.m. to discuss that.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes launches the #FAB47 Community Recognition Program. On September 20th Assemblymember Reyes will highlight the first #FAB47 inductee in the 47th District. The Fabulous 47 Recognition Program is an opportunity for community members, businesses and community based organizations to be recognized for the great work they are doing in the Inland Region.

“The 47th Assembly District is full of amazing, hardworking and altruistic residents. As such, it is important we recognize their contribution to our community,” said Assemblymember Reyes. The recognition of the fabulous members of our community offers an opportunity to highlight the unsung heroes who give of themselves without seeking recognition.”

Assemblymember Reyes is taking monthly nominations for #FAB47 at https://a47.asmdc.org/47th-assembly-district-community-recognition-program. Nominees must live, volunteer, or work in the 47th Assembly District. The 47th Assembly District includes all or portions of the following communities: Colton, Fontana, Grand Terrace, Rialto, San Bernardino, and the unincorporated communities of Bloomington and Muscoy. To confirm the nominee lives or works in the district, go to https://a47.asmdc.org/district-map. 

For assistance in nominating or for further information about the #FAB47 Program, please call our office at (909) 381-3238.

Jatori Harris

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- When Jatori Harris took the reins of organizing the 2017/’18 Inland Empire Million March from former organizer, Terry Boykins, he wanted to foster an unresolved passion facing him for many years, and that being not having any of his parents take him to the first day of school, especially his father. 

Growing up without a father and later experiencing his mother being sentenced to prison, Jatori found himself placed in foster care at age eight.

After living with relatives for a short period while bouncing from home to home, he finally thought hope was in sight when he had secured a place of consistency with his aunt.  Only to later have his life shift, once again, when she too was sentenced to prison.

By age seventeen, he exited foster care and began his journey and search for life’s purpose and clarity. Of which, would eventually lead to a mentoring relationship and lifelong mission of giving back to the community.

Now, at age 33 and a father of two, Jatori stated, “Fatherhood is important to me because I know how much I needed and wanted my mother and father, but had to go without.  So, my passion of doing right by my children is the most important thing to me as a person, a big brother and now as a mentor myself.”

On Saturday, September 16, Jatori is reaching back and giving back by recognizing foster and father-absent youth, as well as, former foster youth now fathers during a day of fatherhood importance and awareness at the Fiesta Village Family Fun Center in Colton, CA.  Colton’s Mayor, Richard DeLaRosa, will welcome guests and attendees.

He is inviting the entire community to attend and enjoy a special dedication for those students who do not have active fathers in their lives.  Additionally, Jatori is asking anyone who would like to sponsor a foster or father-absent youth to attend and enjoy a Fiesta Village All Day Ride Pass, $14.95, to visit www.streetpositive.com and pledge support.  Or, call him at (909) 520-0286. The event will start at 10 a.m.

Harris says he is looking forward to his new tenure as the I.E. Million Father March organizer, and is adamant about pushing the importance of #FathersForEducation campaign in the years to come. Also, thanks to Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, there will be very special giveaways for the community to enjoy during the morning kick-off celebration.

By Lou Coleman-Yeboah

For being chosen to walk the runway in this year “Ankara Fest LA” the biggest African cultural festival in the United States. With her beautiful features and at just 4′ 11″ tall, Krystal proves once again – that you don’t have to be super tall to become a successful model!  As the founder of MKY Petite Modeling Agency, she quotes Napoleon Hill, “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” 

Yes, the Belasco Theater was the place to be September 1 to September 4. Festivities included Red Carpet and Cocktail, Runway Showcase, Artist Performance, Exhibitors/Vendors Showcase, Comedy, Best Dressed Male & Female Awards, dance and food with live music throughout the night and during the fashion show.  It was a fantastic, memorable evening.

“Los Angeles home to one of the largest celebrations of African fashion, culture, heritage, music, dance and art. In its mission to create social awareness for cultural pride, Ankara Festival serves as creative gathering place for fashion designers, models, exhibitors and individuals at the forefront of afro centric innovation.”

Miss Krystal Yvonne, “continue to be like the eagle: soar high, and drop your food onto rocks to crack them open.”  Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for your continued success!

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- On Friday, September 8, the San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation will be hosting its Annual Black Rose and Humanitarian of the Year Community Service Awards Banquet. The annual event will take place at 6 p.m. in the Renaissance Ballroom at the National Orange Show Events Center located at 689 South E Street in San Bernardino.

San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation is proud to announce this year’s recipients which are: Humanitarian of the Year, Gwendolyn Rodgers; Community Service Award, Clarisa Howard; Black Rose Awards, Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Lesford Duncan, and Jamie Rios.

Please join us in congratulating our well-deserved recipients. Tickets are $65 per person for dinner or $750 for a table of ten. To purchase yours, please visit www.sbbcfoundation.com or http://2017blackrose.eventbrite.com/?s=75272501.

Dorothy Inghram

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- The San Bernardino County Board of Education voted to name its newest facility after the first African American teacher in San Bernardino County, Dorothy Inghram, during its meeting on September 5.

The board, which voted unanimously (5-0) for the naming, officially will call the new site the San Bernardino County Board of Education Dorothy Inghram Learning Center. The new building is located at 670 E. Carnegie Drive in San Bernardino.

“(Dorothy) was the Harriet Tubman of education for African American students in San Bernardino County,” said Sherman Garnett, president of the County Board. “This is true history right here.”

Inghram, who was born and raised in San Bernardino, graduated from San Bernardino High School in 1923. She graduated from San Bernardino Valley College in 1932 and wrote the school’s alma mater. In 1942, she was hired to teacher second grade at the Mill School, the first African American teacher in the county.

In 1945, she became a teaching principal at the Mill School, becoming the full-time principal in 1951. In 1953, she became the superintendent of the Mill School District, the first African-American in California to be a district superintendent. She lived to be 106 years old before passing away in 2012.

The new facility will serve as an administrative site for Regional Occupational Program and East Valley Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) staff, a cybersecurity career technical education training center, house regular County Board of Education meetings and provide conference rooms for educational leadership workshops and events. 

The board considered 45 names for the new facility before ultimately choosing the name honoring Inghram.

By Naomi K. Bonman

As you drive around Southern California, you can’t help but to notice graffiti. It’s on the freeway bridges, ramps, train cars, abandon buildings, and just about every flat surface that is in attention to the general public.

Graffiti frustrates many because they feel as if it destructs the city unless it is done in a tasteful manner. Over the recent years, we have seen more graffiti artists who have turned their art into something more positive and of value, such as Rialto, California’s own WetPaint Larry.

“I’ve been painting for a long time,” he states on what inspires him to paint. “Everything around me inspires me to go harder. I have a lot of things that I paint that makes me feel good.”

WetPaint Larry started off doing graffiti but now he paints murals for small businesses, cities, and schools. He is known well regionally and has built up an impressive social media following with over 15,000 followers on Instagram. Larry’s accomplishments recently earned him recognition in the “Under 30 Awards” that was presented by Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes. 

“That was a good highlight for this year,” WetPaint Larry discusses his recent achievement. “That was something huge for me because when I went in there and looked around I seen high rank [city officials]. As I sat there, I thought ‘[Man], I’m among great people that are doing great work. So, for me that’s huge from being a graffiti artist to getting that award. I look at it all the time.”

Since his latest city achievement, WetPaint Larry has been on the grind with trying to secure more jobs for himself in the schools. He is looking forward to expanding beyond Rialto and has had school officials from Fontana and San Bernardino call him to do some work for their schools.

You can check out WetPaint Larry’s work on his Instagram page @wetpaintlarry and if you want to collaborate with him on a project send him a direct message via the platform.

Publishers Commentary by Wallace J. Allen

As we are mesmerized by the video visuals of the tragedy in Texas, we are also driven to tears of pride as we witness the heroic response from plain folk volunteers.  The expected first responders are needed and extremely appreciated; however, the truth is that the real first responders are often potential victims that were prepared for an unexpected emergency. The clean water and plastic bags for personal waste go a long way when strangers are herded to a safe-from-danger-spot that has room, but no accommodations for a large gathering of people. Shelters are temporary spaces, such as churches, schools and stadiums that are seldom, if ever, able to accommodate at any level of comfort.

We have seen the Texas tragedy cause people to open their homes to strangers! That is a great storyline that will probably soon be countered by stories exemplifying the other side of human nature.  There will be examples of real looting, not just the “emergency borrowing” that some did survive. There will be stories about folks who were ridiculed by people who could have helped. 

The rain is moving out of Texas into neighboring states where it will eventually normalize. Texans and the nation will feel the ripple effect of the human toll of death and property loss for years! Recovery from the coming health issues will be countered by “economic opportunity”. There will be growth and development, but the memories of pain will remain throughout the lives of some.

I pray that this evidence of unexpected devastation will cause more people to realize the importance of each other! There may come a time of tragedy when the people that you disagree with will be the same people that you will be depending on for help.

We do not have to agree with each other about how we got here, but we do need to respect the fact that we are here together!  Friends do not have to agree, they should only be friendly!