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SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- Time for Change Foundation’s (TFCF) 22nd Annual Awards Gala will honor outstanding individuals and organizations that go above and beyond for our communities and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

Kellie Todd Griffin is a dynamic leader with a rich history of driving change and empowering communities across California. With an impressive portfolio spanning 25 years, Kellie has made significant strides in community engagement, strategy development, and social impact initiatives.

As the President and CEO of the California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute, Kellie oversees transformative programs such as the CA Black Women’s Think Tank at California State University, Dominguez Hills. Her experience in healthcare leadership has earned her recognition as a champion for healthcare equity, culminating in her receipt of the Los Angeles County Woman of the Year award.

Kellie’s dedication to political advocacy and community organizing is evident in her leadership of initiatives like CA African Americans for Obama, which she co-chaired alongside prominent figures like Karen Bass and Kamala Harris.

Kellie channels her expertise in public affairs, communications, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to empower nonprofits, government entities, and corporations. Her entrepreneurial spirit is further demonstrated through her founding of organizations such as Sistallect, Inc. and the California Black Women and Girls Social and Economic Impact Fund.

“Kellie Todd Griffin’s unwavering dedication to community empowerment and social justice serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of collaborating with her,” said Kim Carter-Tillman, Founder/Ambassador of Time for Change Foundation, “She is truly an inspiration to all women!”

Other Award Honorees include:

Bobby Wagner, football player of the NFL, with the Philanthropist of the Year Award; Rev. George Lamb at F.A.C.C.T with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Rita (Faridah) Ali from We 2 Matter with the Humanitarian Award; Dawn Downs to receive the Businesswoman of the Year Award; Laurena Bolden at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians with the Community Champion Award; Pastor Craig Hadley from Paradox Church with the Nancy Varner Angel Award; and Rialto ROTC with the Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award.

Time for Change Foundation’s 22^nd Annual Awards Gala will be held on Friday, April 19th, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California at 6:00 p.m. PST. To support the work of Time for Change Foundation, you can become a sponsor, purchase an ad in the event program book, or purchase a Gala ticket.

To register for the event or to become a sponsor and increase your business’s visibility in the community, please visit our website at www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org, or contact Florence White at (909) 886-2994 or by email at fwhite@timeforchangefoundation.org.

Delia Jimenez Cioc was appointed as the first female Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. Jimenez Cioc offers a deep understanding of agricultural practices, environmental protection, consumer protection, and weights and measures regulations to her new role after nearly two decades within Riverside County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office.

Jimenez Cioc began her journey with the Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in 2004 after graduating from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Biology. Over the years, she has showcased exemplary dedication and leadership in various capacities within the department.

“We are pleased to welcome Delia as the new Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures,” expressed Board Chair Chuck Washington, Third District. “With a true passion for agriculture and public service, we look forward to working closely with her to support and innovate the county’s agricultural sector.”

Throughout her tenure, Jimenez Cioc has held pivotal roles, including Supervising Agricultural and Standards Investigator, Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, and most recently, Assistant Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer. In these positions, she has overseen critical aspects of departmental operations, including managing substantial budgets, supervising personnel, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Jimenez Cioc holds a Master of Public Administration from California Baptist University, further enhancing her ability to serve the community effectively.

“As the new Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Riverside County, I remain committed to promoting and protecting our agriculture, the environment, and the residents of our beautiful and diverse county while upholding equity in the marketplace,” said Jimenez Cioc.

Jimenez Cioc’s passion for agriculture dates back to her childhood, where she was surrounded by fields of wheat, corn, grapevines, and sunflowers. This early connection to farming instilled in her a profound appreciation for the industry, which she continues to nurture through her personal and professional endeavors. Outside of work, she enjoys cultivating fruits and vegetables in her backyard and exploring different cuisines and cultures during her travels.

In her new role, Jimenez Cioc assumes leadership of more than 50 employees tasked with upholding the functions of Riverside County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in service to the community. This appointment follows the retirement of the former Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, Ruben Arroyo.

YUCAIPA, CA— Crafton Hills College (CHC) proudly announces Damian G. Garcia as the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award recipient. This accolade, presented each year by the CHC Foundation, recognizes a former student who exemplifies the dynamic and positive qualities the Crafton experience can produce.

Born and raised in the Inland Empire, Garcia’s upbringing influenced his work ethic and drive early on. Despite facing challenges and being among the few Hispanic people in his community and academic career, Garcia remained committed to pursuing higher education and professional success. He was the first of his family to attend college.

“My parents, particularly my father, instilled the values of hard work, determination and perseverance,” said Garcia. “My family influenced me to always strive for success, no matter what hardships interfered with my path.”

Garcia’s higher education journey began at CHC, where he laid the foundation for his academic pursuits while balancing his personal and professional life.

“Persistence, dedication and patience are character traits I developed during my academic path,” shared Garcia. “Especially at Crafton Hills College, where I had to balance my married life, my professional career, and my academics. I believe my education and experience at Crafton helped me improve my academic skills, ultimately giving me the confidence to further my education.”

After completing his bachelor’s degree at the University of California, Riverside, Garcia attained a Master of Business Administration at the University of Redlands, followed by a law degree from the University of La Verne.

Garcia’s commitment to justice and diversity inspired him to become an attorney and eventually serve as a judge. Recognizing the lack of diversity in the judiciary, he pursued a legal career with a vision to effect positive change in his community.

“I have a passion for the law and justice. I believe I offered a unique and effective balance of passion to serve, passion for the law and passion for justice,” said Garcia. “I believe the diversity of the judiciary should reflect the diversity of the population they serve.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Garcia remains committed to mentoring and inspiring the next generation.

He has spoken to groups of at-risk and underrepresented high school and middle school students in the Redlands Unified School District and Perris Union High School District about success and his journey to become an attorney. He has also mentored students at the University of Redlands and the University of La Verne College of Law.

“I intend to continue to motivate and inspire the youth in my community,” Garcia expressed. “Our children have been under significant stress and anxiety because of recent societal events, including the pandemic. The mental health of society, and particularly our youth, needs significant attention to ensure a healthy and productive future.”

Garcia will be honored with the Outstanding Alumni Award at the CHC Foundation Fundraiser/Gala on Thursday, April 18.

LOS ANGELES, CA—- When veteran entertainment industry publicist Makeda Smith began pole dancing as a fitness hobby, over 12 years ago, she had no idea it would morph into a life changing journey.  The 63-year-old grandmother, who has received international notoriety for her dance flow movement practice, Flying Over 50, has announced a brand expansion during Women’s History Month.  Makeda is releasing her first book, “Flying Over 50 at Any Age, A 30-Day Self Journal for Speeding Past Limitations” on April 5, National Self Care Day.  In addition, she has also launched an online wellness portal, The Makeda Method, offering healing breathwork sessions, deep stretch yoga classes, and dance flow movement lessons, all targeted for maturing seniors.

“Flying Over 50 at Any Age, A 30-Day Self Journal for Speeding Past Limitations” is an encouraging guide for navigating through life’s many holding patterns.  The author offers daily motivation and wisdom through introspection about her life while prompting the reader to write and reflect on their own journey.  By the end of the book, readers will hopefully find themselves renewed, invigorated, and ready to ‘Fly Over 50,’ soaring past societal and self-imposed speed limits.

“When I turned 50 over a decade ago, I was at one of the lowest points in my life.  The market had crashed, and I literally lost everything – but through it all, I found myself. I discovered that life doesn’t end at 50, but it does take on new responsibility.  Diving into fitness not only saved my life, but it also positioned me in the current pro-aging movement and garnered me the profound understanding that aging is one of the most powerful celebrations of living a long life,” expresses Makeda. “My book, ‘Flying Over 50 at Any Age’ and my new wellness portal, The Makeda Method, are my support systems for adults who are being challenged with the many effects of what we call ‘growing old.’   Aging is a natural process, but the secret is mastering practices for mitigating the daily stress that comes with it.”

The Makeda Method’ is a culmination of wellness offerings for everyone, all ages, but particularly for individuals struggling with the anxiety of aging.  As a certified breath and stretch coach, Makeda created the online portal to help others establish their own personal routines for health and wellness. Layered with the grace of her private coaching, breathwork is taught as a mindful tool for eliminating tension and unease, while deep stretch classes enhance flexibility and mobility in the body and work to calm the mind as well.

“Embracing senior citizenship can be overwhelming.  That’s where finding a coach comes into play.  A coach can guide you with the training and tools you need to initially get started and hold you accountable for your daily practice. Eventually it all becomes secondhand and then you are fine on your own.  I’m still a busy publicist with my own PR agency, but coaching has always been a passion point for me. Now with the release of my book and wellness portal, I’m hoping to further spread the news that growing older is a divine blessing when approached with attentive self-care!” explains Makeda.

Secure your copy of “Flying Over 50 at Any Age, A 30-Day Self Journal for Speeding Past Limitations” on Amazon.com and check out The Makeda Method at www.themakedamethod.com.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Time for Change Foundation’s (TFCF) 22nd Annual Awards Gala will honor outstanding individuals and organizations that go above and beyond for our communities and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

Laurena “Lala” Bolden embodies the spirit of community and service, deeply rooted in her upbringing and family values. A proud native of Highland, CA, Laurena’s journey is intertwined with her commitment to giving back and uplifting those around her. Raised on the San Manuel Indian Reservation, Laurena learned the importance of community involvement from her mother, Alaina, and her grandparents, James & Rowena. Their dedication to serving others inspired Laurena to follow in their footsteps, becoming a beacon of hope and support in her own right.

As a devoted wife and mother of two boys, Laurena leads by example, prioritizing family values and community engagement. Her involvement in the San Manuel Tribal Council as a Councilmember and Vice Chair of the tribe’s Education Board underscores her dedication to her tribal community.

Guided by the foundational principle of “Putting God first in everything we do” and the belief in offering a “hand up” whenever possible, Laurena’s compassion knows no bounds. Her support to various youth sports’ leagues and collaboration with Loma Linda University Health reflect her commitment to promoting pediatric and behavioral health initiatives.

In the words of her grandmother, “Laurena understands the importance of paying forward the kindness and generosity she has received.”

“Laurena’s heart for the community is evident in her life. Her generosity and commitment to helping others throughout various efforts show a true community champion and we are honored to be giving her this award”, said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director.

Other Award Honorees include:

Bobby Wagner, football player of the NFL, with the Philanthropist of the Year Award; Rev. George Lamb at F.A.C.C.T with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Rita (Faridah) Ali from We 2 Matter with the Humanitarian Award; Dawn Downs to receive the Businesswoman of the Year Award; Kellie Todd Griffin at CA Black Women’s Collective with the Michelle Obama Courage Award; Pastor Craig Hadley from Paradox Church with the Nancy Varner Angel Award; and Rialto ROTC with the Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award.

Time for Change Foundation’s 22nd Annual Awards Gala will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California at 6:00 p.m. PST. To support the work of Time for Change Foundation, you can become a sponsor, purchase an ad in the event program book, or purchase a Gala ticket.

To register for the event or to become a sponsor and increase your business’s visibility in the community, please visit our website at www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org, or contact Florence White at (909) 886-2994 or by email at fwhite@timeforchangefoundation.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino County Spelling Bee concluded with exhilarating victories, showcasing exceptional linguistic scholars from across the region. Representing a diverse array of school districts and charter schools, the competition culminated in a thrilling event between the county’s finest spellers.

San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) hosted the annual competition at San Bernardino Valley College on March 13.

This year’s champions emerged from the ranks of Etiwanda School District. Shrey Parikh, a sixth-grade student, and Srikanth Satheesh Kumar, an eighth-grade student, demonstrated exceptional skill and composure throughout the competition.

“The San Bernardino County Spelling Bee serves as a testament to the dedication and talent of our students,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “It’s inspiring to witness their hard work and determination on display, showcasing their semantic skills in such a challenging and prestigious competition.”

Sixth-grader Parikh solidified his victory after correctly spelling the word “rarefaction.” Satheesh Kumar was named the co-champion after providing the correct spelling of the word “recrudescent.”

The champions will now prepare to compete on the national stage where they will represent San Bernardino County during the Scripps National Spelling Bee in May.

Parikh expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in such a prestigious event. “Thank you to my mom and dad, family, and my teacher Ms. Miller and to all the spelling bee organizers,” said Parikh.

“I would like to thank my mom, dad, and my brother for support and always being there for me. I will always be thankful for my teachers for encouraging me,” said eighth grader Satheesh Kumar.

Participating school districts in this year’s Spelling Bee included Alta Loma SD, Apple Valley Unified SD, Central SD, Etiwanda SD, Ontario-Montclair SD, San Bernardino City Unified SD, Snowline Joint Unified SD, Upland Unified SD, and Victor Valley Union High SD. Students from Empire Springs Charter, Granite Mountain Charter, and Inland Leaders Charter also participated in this year’s competition.

The San Bernardino County Spelling Bee not only celebrates academic achievement but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants.

The top five 2024 Spelling Bee Champions are:

• First Place Champion – Shrey Parikh, Day Creek Intermediate School
• First Place Champion – Srikanth Satheesh Kumar, Heritage Intermediate School
• Second Place Champion – Ruiee Shih, Day Creek Intermediate School
• Third Place Champion – Abheri Sureddi, John L. Golden Elementary School
• Fourth Place Champion – Afiyah Ashrafi, Spring Charter Schools
• Fourth Place Champion – Anika Crowe, Granite Mountain Charter School
• Fourth Place Champion – Katherine Odell, Spring Charter Schools
• Fourth Place Champion – Leilani Saito, Sitting Bull Academy
• Fifth Place Champion – Summer He, Caryn Elementary School
• Fifth Place Champion – Sophia Raqueno, Ruth Musser Middle School
• Fifth Place Champion – Yahya Tchich, Summit Intermediate School

For more news and information, visit the SBCSS Newsroom and follow us @SBCountySchools on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.#transforminglives

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- Join the Social Lites Inc., for an unforgettable evening at its Beautillion Scholarship Program. This exciting event will take place on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at California State University, San Bernardino. Get ready to witness an extraordinary showcase of talent, grace, and intellect as the community honors and celebrates outstanding young men in the community.

Throughout the evening, you’ll be captivated by the exceptional performances and presentations from the remarkable scholarship candidates. These young men have demonstrated remarkable leadership, academic excellence, and community involvement, making them true inspirations for the next generation. As you mingle with fellow attendees, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with community leaders, educators, and like-minded individuals who share a passion for empowering our youth.

The Social Lites, Inc. Beautillion Scholarship Program is not only a celebration but also a chance to build meaningful connections and foster a supportive network.

In addition to the program, the organization will also honor Chief Joe Paulino, Edward Brantley, Wallace Allen, Alton Garrett, Hardy Brown Sr., Hardy Brown Jr., Robert Bivens, and other recipients, Social Lites Inc., recognizes the importance of celebrating those who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to making the world a better place. Their contributions serve as a reminder that each of us has the power to effect positive change and leave a lasting impact on our communities.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 30, 2024, at 5:30 PM and make your way to California State University, San Bernardino to be a part of this momentous occasion as we recognize and uplift these extraordinary young men. We look forward to seeing you there!  Tickets can be purchased by contacting Marlene Davis (909)709-5502.

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

California Volunteers, part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s California for All initiative, last week announced that it is recruiting hundreds of young people in the across the state to participate in its paid service programs aligned with opportunities to solve some of the state’s most challenging problems like climate change, hatred, education disparities, and more.

Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson joined Josh Fryday, California’s Chief Service Officer at the event organized to celebrate the first anniversary of California Volunteers launch of its Job Corps fellow program in Riverside and to announce the new recruitment.

Lock Dawson said in Riverside alone, 100 California Volunteer college job corps fellows have been placed with a number of organizations.

“Governor Newsom and California Volunteers working in partnership with leaders like Mayor Lock Dawson believe that service has the power to connect us. Service has the power to teach us,” said Fryday.

“We are announcing today here in Riverside to recruit across the State of California over 10,000 members of the California Service Corps,” said Fryday. “We need your help getting the word out about CaServiceCorps.com where you can find out about all the opportunities to fit your needs and your passion.

“You don’t have to let your past define your future. In fact your future is now and it starts today with the Service Corps,” said Lock Dawson.

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

On March 12, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) and the Legislative Women’s Caucus partnered to host a screening of the documentary “Respect My Crown: The Rise of African American Women in California Politics.”

The event, held at the Crest Theater in downtown Sacramento, was followed by a Q&A with the film’s director, Pamela Bright-Moon, and its producer, Alisa Covington.

Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) was one of the organizers of the event co-created with the California Black Women’s Collective Institute.

“It was about celebrating and uplifting women for Women’s History Month,” said McKinnor, a member of CLBC. “(This film) itself is powerful and dynamic. It really takes you across California’s history and It takes you across Black women’s political history in Northern and Southern California.”

Respect My Crown” is a feature-length documentary film that explores the significant contributions of African American women in leadership in the areas of politics, labor, and community activism in the State of California.

McKinnor said the film starts with former California U.S. senator Kamala Harris becoming the first Black woman Vice President and ends with labor activist Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Ladera Heights), who sworn in as a California State Senator in 2022. Between those milestones, the film traces the rich history of Black women in California politics, including the election of Yvonne Braithwaite Burke, the first Black woman elected to the California Legislature in 1966.

A number of state legislators and elected officials attended the event, including California Secretary of State Shirley Weber, who is featured in the documentary.

“We now have Black women politicians, district attorneys and state officials. The film also touches on local city council persons and mayors such as Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and San Francisco Mayor London Breed. It shows Black women’s footprints on the political landscape of California,” said McKinnor.

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

Two California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) members, Assemblymembers Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa) and Mike Gipson (D-Carson) were among the speakers during a special ceremony organized by the California Women’s Caucus last week to celebrate Women’s History Month.

During the ceremony, lawmakers from different groups in the Legislature and the 50-member strong Women Caucus paid tribute to several remarkable women from California and across the United States and urged their colleagues to pass House Resolution (HR) 72, legislation that declared March as Women’s History Month.

“I rise on behalf of the members of the California Legislative Black Caucus and the incredible women of that Caucus in support of this resolution and thank our colleagues for bringing this very important piece of legislation before us today,” said Gipson during the event held on the floor of the State Assembly on March 11.

“Your groundbreaking career is unparalleled, and I am proud we represent San Diego County together,” Weber posted on X, the social media platform formally known as Twitter.

Gipson paid tribute to the five women mwmvwea of the CLBC: Sen. Lola Smallwood Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) and Assemblymembers Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), Mia Bonta (D-Alameda) and Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood).

The Assembly leadership honored Janette Robinson Flint, founder of Black Women for Wellness, at the ceremony. She was escorted to the floor by Mckinnor and Assemblymember Rebacca Bauer-Kahan (D-Walnut Creek).