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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernadino-based Swans Club of the Inland Empire is excited to present six exceptional young women at the organization’s 64^th Annual Debutante Ball, which will be held on the evening of Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Ontario Hotel.

The Swans Club, founded in 1960, is a non-profit organization that raises funds to provide college scholarships to teenage girls in the Inland Empire. Entry into the Debutante Ball is by pre-purchased ticket only. Tickets are $75 each, and the deadline for purchasing tickets is Sunday, October 27, 2024. As a reminder, formal attire is required for all Ball attendees (long gowns and tuxedoes).

The 2024 Swans Club Debutantes making their debut are:

• Miss Ausara Bell, a senior at John W. North High School in Riverside.
• Miss Omaega Johnson, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.
• Miss Brooklyn Malveaux, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.
• Miss Leianna Scott, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.
• Miss Crystal Scott, a freshman at Riverside City College in Riverside.
• Miss Zaair Thompson, a senior at Cajon High School in San Bernardino.

Visit The Swans Club’s website, theswans.1960.com for information to purchase tickets to the 2024 Debutante Ball by the October 27^th deadline or email The Swans at theswans.1960@gmail.com.  All contributions are tax deductible. See you on November 9^th.

Publisher’s Commentary by Wallace J. Allen IV

2: $10 billion bonds to build educational facilities Schools, Yes

3: Right to Marry, Yes

4: $10 Billion Bonds funding environmental projects, Yes

5: Easier 55% vote to pass; Housing Bonds, Yes

6: End involuntary servitude, Yes

32: Increase minimum wage to $18, Yes

33: Too Much Rent Control, No

34: Requires Health Care Providers to use 98% of pharmaceutical revenue for services, Yes

35: Tax on MCO’s to fund Medi-Cal, Yes

36: More Arrests, No

By Tanu Henry | California Black Media

Hundreds of thousands gathered at the 19th annual Taste of Soul Festival in Crenshaw — an event dubbed “California’s largest block party” — on Oct. 19.

At the event, California Black Media (CBM) partnered with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) to spread the word about the California Vs. Hate, a statewide hate crime online resource and telephone hotline, launched in 2023.  The system enables Californians to easily report hate crimes and hate incidents.

“Held in the heart of south Los Angeles on Crenshaw Blvd, over half a million people attend the one-day event that brings out the best our community has to offer,” said Brandon Brooks, Stop the Hate project director at California Black Media.

“The festival promotes local businesses as well as it brings out local and statewide resources to assist community members, Brooks continued. “The day has proven to be a great opportunity to speak to people directly and provide information to combat hate crimes and incidents.”

During the event, Brooks said he, James Williams, Community Based Organization Manger for California Vs. Hate and Leah Brown-Goodloe from CBM informed and shared literature with tens of thousands of festivalgoers about the state’s Stop the Hate resources.

CBM’s Stop the Hate outreach was held at the beginning of United Against Hate Week (UAHW), a commemoration held annually across the country to recognize the fight against all forms of hate.

UAHW was first launched in 2018 by elected leaders, staff, and community groups from 13 cities in the Bay Area who organized a “United Against Hate” poster campaign responding to White supremacists marching in Northern California streets in the aftermath of Charlottesville riots.

In 2018, Los Angeles County, LAvsHate, a campaign that provided anti-hate crime information and resources to report hate incidents and hate crimes.

According to CRD director Kevin Kish, the L.A. initiative provided a model for the state’s program.

Today, UAHW has grown into a national movement with events organized across the country to mark the day.

This year, across the state counties and cities acted and held events to mark UAHW, including the launch of a branded UAHW wrap installed on buses by the Santa Clara County Valley Transit Authority.

Not in Our Town, a Northern California-based anti-hate movement, highlighted 131 events across 92 cities.

“Not only were there public gatherings, but also powerful panel discussions, training sessions, and cultural events promoting unity, understanding, and solidarity. These efforts collectively reflect the growing awareness and action against hate in our neighborhoods,” the Not in Our Town statement read.

In June, California Attorney General Rob Bonta released the 2023 Hate Crime in California Report. It included data and resources supporting the state’s ongoing efforts to eliminate crimes and incidents motivated by racial and other biases.

According to the report, hate crimes in California decreased by 7.1% from 2,120 in 2022 to 1,970 in 2023.

However, incidents and crimes against Black Californians remained higher than average with 518 reported cases in 2023. The next highest reporting of bias events was 199 Anti-Hispanic or Latino incidents.

When it comes to reported hate crimes, we know that Black Californians are the most targeted group for hate and discrimination in our state,” said Williams.  “The California Civil Rights Department wants people to know that we are committed to reaching the Black community through outreach events and campaigns, including our first-ever billboard campaign, forging new partnerships, or increasing awareness about the hotline and available resources to historically hard-to-reach and underserved Californians.”

The Taste of Soul festival was created by Bakewell Media CEO and executive publisher Danny Bakewell Sr. He said Taste of Soul was created to highlight the positive aspects of African American life and “to encourage the enjoyment, respect and appreciation of our community and each other in an atmosphere of respect, peace, pride and pleasure.”

Brooks, who is from Los Angeles, said he was honored to participate in the event and provide a service to the community, which includes many of his friends and family.

“The event is always a beautiful experience to see family and friends enjoying food, music and resources,” said Brooks.

Williams said he wants to remind all Californians that there is “support when you report!”

“No matter your background or where you come from, if you’ve been targeted for hate, you can get help accessing legal, financial, mental health, and other services by calling 833-8-NO-HATE or by going to CAvsHate.org,” Williams added.

How To Report A Hate Crime: 

CA vs Hate is a non-emergency, multilingual hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal. Reports can be made anonymously by calling (833) 866-4283, or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT or online at any time.

Hate acts can be reported in 15 different languages through the online portal and in over 200 languages when calling the hotline. For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911.

For more information on CA vs Hate, please visit CAvsHate.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) Board of Education is proud to announce that it has awarded the Outstanding Community Partner Award to No Kid Hungry, a nonprofit dedicated to ending childhood hunger and reducing food scarcity.

This award, presented at the Board’s Oct. 22 meeting, recognizes No Kid Hungry’s exceptional efforts in supporting SBCUSD’s students and families with access to nutritious meals.

Through its innovative programs and partnerships, No Kid Hungry has played a critical role in ensuring that children in the San Bernardino community have access to the meals they need to thrive, both inside and outside of the classroom. Their work has significantly reduced food insecurity, helping thousands of students stay focused and succeed academically.

“The impact No Kid Hungry has had on our students and families is profound,” said SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano. “Their commitment to ending childhood hunger aligns perfectly with our mission to provide every child with the resources they need to succeed. This award is a testament to their invaluable partnership.”

No Kid Hungry’s initiatives have supported SBCUSD in expanding access to meals, particularly Breakfast in the Classroom. By working closely with local schools and communities, they’ve ensured that children receive the healthy meals they need year-round.

“We are honored to partner with SBCUSD in the fight against childhood hunger,” said Daisy Munguia, Associate Director, No Kid Hungry California. “Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of students, ensuring that hunger is not a barrier to their education. Our partnership to bring Breakfast in the Classroom to San Bernardino City schools continues to have a significant impact on students’ health, well-being, and their readiness to come to school and learn.”

For more information on No Kid Hungry and SBCUSD’s ongoing efforts to reduce food insecurity, please contact Laura Rice at Lrice@strength.org.

The PAL Center in Muscoy was buzzing with excitement Saturday, October 19th as it hosted the 4th Annual I.E. Live Halloween Extravaganza. Visitors were captivated by a Haunted House featuring expertly crafted scares, drawing long lines throughout the facility. Kids enjoyed free pumpkins and a variety of activities, including face painting, jumpers, pumpkin carving, balloontwister, and a money-grab machine.

A highlight of the event was a performance by A Time 2 Dance, the Fontana-based studio owned by Lxa Arredondo and Jessica Rodriguez. The studio won the I.E. Live performance category at the last event, earning a free promotional video from the I.E. Live Team. The talented young dancers showcased their skills on the newly installed turf field at PAL Charter Academy. The studio offers classes for children aged 4 and up in ballet, jazz, and tap.

Parents appreciated an array of free giveaways, and the excitement continued with raffles throughout the day—one lucky attendee won a 55-inch Smart TV donated by Think Wise Credit!

Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. made a special appearance to distribute candy and present certificates from the County of San Bernardino to event Founder Dwaine Radden Sr. and Coordinator Jasmine Jefferson, recognizing their dedication to the community and youth. After touring the Haunted House, both Radden and Baca praised its impressive design, which provided an authentic scare experience.

Former PCA scholar and valedictorian Louie Gonzalez, now a nurse, was acknowledged for his contributions to the Haunted House, with Radden noting that this year’s attraction surpassed all expectations.

The Akoma Unity Center, led by Kimberly Calvin, brought 50 scholars and staff to join in the festivities, highlighting their commitment to uplifting historically excluded communities of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

Vendors thrived at the event, with Danielle Campbell of Crystal Lyn’s Catering reporting a sellout and already signing up for the upcoming Easter Egg Hunt on April 5th.

Notable attendees included San Bernardino County Board of Education member Dr. Gwen Dowdy-Rodgers and community member Tawnya Rhoades-Hensley, who engaged with attendees about her campaign for the San Bernardino Community College Trustee Board, Area 5.

Coordinator Jefferson emphasized the teamwork that made the event a success, stating that the joy on the faces of thousands of children and parents made all the effort worthwhile. The event continues to grow bigger and better each year!

For more details about this event and updates on future activities, be sure to check out their Instagram page @ielivemarketnite.

SACRAMENTO, CA— On Friday October 18th, Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (D-Colton) celebrated the signing of AB 2033, the EBT Access for Student Empowerment (EASE) Act, at a joint event hosted by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and San Bernardino Valley College. The event took place at the “Den Coffee Shop” located at San Bernardino Valley College. AB 2033 addresses the student hunger crisis faced on campuses across California by making it possible for students to use Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) across California’s three college systems. This legislation was co-sponsored by the Student Senate for the California Community Colleges, the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges, and uAspire, a nonprofit focused on improving the economic mobility of underrepresented students.

“I am grateful to Governor Newsom for signing AB 2033 into law and want to thank our robust coalition of supporters, including the Community College Chancellor’s Office for helping get this across the finish line,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “Student hunger is directly linked to academic achievement, and we know that food insecure students are more likely to report lower GPAs given the externalities they face. AB 2033 is a step forward in our efforts to end student food insecurity across California.”

“By accepting EBT, college campuses are doing their part to promote food security. If students do not have to worry about where they will get their next meal, they can learn and thrive in school. This should be an ultimate goal for all of us,” said Dr. Sonya Christian, Chancellor of the California Community Colleges. “I applaud Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes for authoring AB 2033 and I thank the Governor for signing this important legislation.”

“AB 2033 ensures that our colleges continue to be the open door of opportunity for students. By addressing food insecurity, we are helping students stay in school, graduate, and build better futures,” said Dr. Diana Z. Rodriguez, Chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District. “That investment doesn’t just pay off for them—it strengthens our economy and lifts up our entire community.”

By Nataki Garrett and Clyde Valentín

In this pivotal election year, as Americans face unprecedented health and social challenges, a groundbreaking new campaign is centering joy and redefining how we view the arts: not just as a form of expression or representation of culture but as a key component of community wellness. In just one day, Arts For EveryBody, a national initiative led by One Nation/One Project, showcased the power of our collective joy.

The project sought to answer one question: How can arts participation in communities influence social cohesion and well-being? On July 27th, hundreds of artists from 18 cities and towns across America worked together to find out.

Arts For Everybody brought unlikely community partners together— artists, government officials and community health leaders— to produce participatory arts projects seeking to bridge the arts with the health and well-being of our communities. The activation part of “One Nation/One Project” spanned 18 communities across the country from Hawaii to Washington state to Texas to Florida to Illinois to New York and to the nation’s capital Washington, DC and beyond to share, to create, to perform in celebration of health, community, belonging, and togetherness. Each project sought to address the unique challenges of their city, from access to clean water to access to lost customs and culture—issues that, many times, disproportionately impacted Black and brown and low-income communities. These same communities face the biggest barriers when it comes to access to the arts and health care.

At the heart of Arts for EveryBody is a commitment to addressing the deep inequities that disproportionately affect Black, brown, rural, and marginalized communities. These communities often face the greatest social challenges, from systemic health disparities to economic insecurity, yet have the least access to the healing power of the arts and quality healthcare.

At the heart of Arts for EveryBody is a commitment to addressing the deep inequities that disproportionately affect Black, brown, rural, and marginalized communities. These communities often face the greatest social challenges, from systemic health disparities to economic insecurity, yet have the least access to the healing power of the arts and quality healthcare.

Arts For EveryBody seeks to close this gap by bringing large-scale, participatory art projects directly into underserved neighborhoods, fostering not just creativity, but also mental and physical well-being. By prioritizing these communities, the project acknowledges that the arts can be a powerful tool for resilience and healing, particularly where they are needed most.

Part of the growing emphasis on participatory arts projects is research that shows a direct link to our health. In a recent paper looking at the tie between participatory art and health Dr. Jill Sonke, PhD, director of research initiatives in the Center for Arts in Medicine at the University of Florida specifically looked at “One Nation/One Project”.

 “ONOP is a multifaceted initiative designed to engage the arts to strengthen the social fabric of U.S. communities on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative leverages collaborations between the arts, public health, and municipal sectors to build health, health equity, and well-being.”

Looking further at the reach and the impact of hundreds of artists coming together in communities all across the country shows the potential and the possibilities of arts and expression to center health and wellness for diverse groups in diverse communities. In Chicago Healing Arts Chicago hosted a citywide creative summit focused on creating, doing, and performing to highlight how artists could be trained as community health workers. In Edinburg, Texas, the community premiered an original musical, Despierta, which featured 75 community members.

Also, it explored the legacy of the Mexican painter Frida Kahlo as a way of looking at important things such as healing and belonging. In Kansas City, Missouri, the community hosted Celebrate AMERI’KANA a music and arts festival bringing together locals of all ages to celebrate the diverse history of American music. In Rhinelander, Wisconsin community members came together for a Walk Against Social Isolation, hosted a community meal, and unveiled a public art installation as their way of looking at well-being and belonging and togetherness. In each example breaking down barriers and silos and exploring inclusivity were seen as key to making sure that health equity, fair and just access to healthcare and resources, was an overarching theme.

At the center of this work is a desire to make participatory arts something that communities commit to on an ongoing basis and to bridge that work directly to the local health sector and/or the local municipality. We have a deep commitment to community engagement and accessibility, and we hope to inspire a movement where on an ongoing basis communities explore art as a way to make communities healthier, stronger, safer, and more united, thus improving the lives of everybody.

During a consequential election year, art is more important because of its ability to spur conversation about the state of the union and remind us that our commonalities should be a powerful enough force to combat ignorance and intolerance. And for the messages of the art being created and shared across the country to help us better truly, we also cannot give in to indifference.

The day’s actions demonstrated the strength of American plurality, diversity, and expression in the most hyperlocal and culturally nuanced ways. The inclusion of $210.1 million for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) in President Biden’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget underscores the government’s recognition of the arts as a vital component of community well-being and equity.

This funding aligns with initiatives like “Arts For EveryBody,” which emphasize the role of arts in addressing systemic health disparities and social cohesion. The budget further promotes the transformative power of participatory arts in underserved communities by ensuring greater access to arts and health resources.

At a time in America where communities are sometimes divided, uncertain, and disjointed, here is an opportunity to unite people and communities. This is a chance to improve people’s everyday lives, whether you’re an artist or creator, a healthcare worker, a government official, or a philanthropist seeking to make positive change.

Together with a common focus, there are ways not just to have participatory arts be part of a moment, but to make participatory arts a movement, where the message is clear arts is for everybody and it really does have the power to transform lives and communities and bring us together.

What July 27 proved is that local leadership has the power to bring together factions of communities that would not ordinarily do so—from health care providers to artists and arts organizations to local elected officials. From these unlikely alliances have sprung powerful partnerships and possibilities to identify critical and unique needs in communities across America.

Arts for EveryBody is led by some of our country’s most creative thinkers. Together, they’re working to coordinate a movement guided by healing, equity, and community. https://www.artsforeverybody.org/joinus

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— Edward Ornelas Jr., President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and owner of the Inland Empire Business Journal, has been named a finalist in the famed 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards. Ornelas is honored in the Social Entrepreneur category for his remarkable leadership and vision in fostering business growth and development across the Inland Empire. The award ceremony will take place on November 21, 2024, at the Riverside Convention Center, celebrating the best of entrepreneurship throughout the region.

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards, often regarded as the “Oscars of Business” in the Inland Empire, recognizes the innovation, leadership, and impact of outstanding entrepreneurs across various sectors. Ornelas joins a select group of 34 finalists, each representing the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience that define the I.E. business community. The Social Entrepreneur category highlights individuals like Ornelas, whose work goes beyond profit to positively impact society.

In his role as President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, Ornelas has been a powerful advocate for the business community, connecting small businesses with essential resources and creating opportunities for growth. As the owner of the IE Business Journal, the only publication in the region dedicated solely to business news, Ornelas has provided a platform for local businesses to thrive by sharing their stories and promoting their success. His innovative, forward-thinking approach to marketing has earned him a reputation as a “visionary” and a “get-things-done” leader across both public and private sectors.

“I’m deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards. This nomination is a reflection of the incredible businesses and community leaders across the Inland Empire who inspire me every day. At the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, our mission is to empower businesses and foster economic growth, and this recognition highlights the collective efforts of our entire community. I’m excited for what the future holds as we continue to work together to make a lasting impact,” said Ornelas.

Other notable finalists for the 2024 Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards include leaders in healthcare innovation, green technology, and digital transformation. Each finalist, selected by a distinguished panel of judges, represents the best in their respective industries and contributes to the Inland Empire’s continued growth as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards is an annual event that brings together business leaders, community advocates, and entrepreneurs to celebrate the entrepreneurial excellence that drives the region’s economy. This year’s event promises to be a night of inspiration and recognition, showcasing the achievements of finalists like Ornelas, who continue to elevate the Inland Empire’s business landscape.

For more information about the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards and to see the full list of finalists, visit www.spiritawardsie.com.

About Edward Ornelas:

Edward Ornelas is the President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and owner of the IE Business Journal. Through his leadership of both organizations, Ornelas is dedicated to advancing the growth and success of businesses throughout the Inland Empire. To learn more about either organization, visit www.iechamber.org or www.iebizjournal.com.

About the Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards:

The Spirit of the Entrepreneur Awards honors the top entrepreneurs in the Inland Empire for their leadership, innovation, and impact on the community. Since its inception, the awards have recognized hundreds of entrepreneurs whose work drives the region’s economy and culture forward.

By Angela M. Coggs

On September 29, 2024, the eyes of San Bernardino were focused on State Farm Stadium, in Glendale, Arizona, where their hometown hero, Jayden Daniels, took the field as the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders. In just his third NFL game as a rookie, Daniels faced off against the Arizona Cardinals, but it wasn’t just any ordinary game—it was a day of pride and celebration for his family, friends, and fans from his hometown.

A Rising Star

Jayden Daniels, a standout from Cajon High School in San Bernardino, has been a source of inspiration for the local community since his high school days. His athleticism, leadership, and work ethic on the field at Cajon earned him a scholarship to Arizona State University (ASU) and played three seasons, where he became one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in college football. He later transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) where he exploded in front of the world and won the Heisman in 2023. After a successful collegiate career, Daniels was drafted by the Washington Commanders in the 2024 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the talented signal-caller.

His meteoric rise to the professional stage has been a point of pride for the San Bernardino community. From youth football leagues to high school glory, Daniels’ journey embodies the dreams of countless young athletes in the region. His hard work, dedication, and perseverance have transformed him into a role model, not just for aspiring football players, but for anyone striving to achieve their goals against the odds.

A Day of Unity and Celebration

When Daniels was named the starter for the Washington Commanders only after his first two NFL games, the San Bernardino community rallied to support their hometown hero against the Arizona Cardinals, it was only a one-hour flight or four-hour drive.  Approximately 100 family members, friends, former coaches, former teachers, current school board member, former principal, and local fans organized trips to attend the game, while many attended on their own to witness Daniels’ first game near his hometown of San Bernardino, California, as a rookie starter. For those who couldn’t make the trip to Arizona, local bars, restaurants, and even parks hosted watch parties, creating a sense of collective pride.

At State Farm Stadium, a strong contingent of supporters from San Bernardino could be seen wearing Commanders jerseys emblazoned with Daniels’ name and number five. Their presence was felt in the stands as they cheered every snap, throw, and scramble by their hometown quarterback.

“It’s surreal to see someone from our town on this stage,” said Coach Nick Rodgers, who coached Daniels at Cajon High School. “He’s always had that ‘it’ factor, and to see him living his dream is an incredible moment for all of us who’ve been a part of his journey.”

A Promising Start to an NFL Career

In just his third NFL game, Daniels has shown promise as a rookie quarterback. His dual-threat ability, honed during his college years, has been a key feature of his early NFL career. Although the Washington Commanders entered the game with a 2-1 record, Daniels had already impressed with his ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate downfield throws.

Against the Arizona Cardinals, Daniels demonstrated poise under pressure, connecting with his receivers for crucial gains and keeping the defense on its heels with his mobility. Though he is still adjusting to the speed of the professional game, his potential is clear, and many believe he could be a key piece of the Commanders’ future success. The Commanders beat the Cardinals 42-14. At one point Daniels waited for a couple of blockers and then weaved forward for a 9- yard touchdown run, flipped the ball behind his back before doing a little dance and flashing his bright smile. Washington Redskins legendary quarterback Doug Williams  was on the sidelines and the camera caught a glimpse of him providing some encouraging words and inspiration to the young quarterback.

A Symbol of Hope

For the San Bernardino community, Jayden Daniels represents more than just athletic success—he symbolizes hope. In a city that has faced its share of challenges, Daniels’ story of resilience and achievement serves as a reminder that with dedication and support, dreams can become reality.

Community members, whether they knew him personally or followed his career from afar, are inspired by his journey. Daniels’ rise to the NFL shows that despite the obstacles young people may face, hard work and determination can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

Looking Forward

As Jayden Daniels continues his rookie season, the support from San Bernardino will undoubtedly grow stronger. His journey has only just begun, but his impact on the field and within his community is already profound. Every throw, every touchdown, and every win are celebrated not just in Washington, D.C., but by a community thousands of miles away that continues to root for one of its own.

For San Bernardino, September 29, 2024, will be remembered as a day when their hero took to the field and brought them along on his journey to NFL stardom.

The Washington Commanders are currently 4-1 in the NFC and Daniels has been breaking records after every game. This is the first team since 1970 to score 150 plus points in their first five games while starting a rookie quarterback.

“It feels good that we’re able to execute the gameplan, but we’ve still got room to grow,” Daniels said.

By Angela M. Coggs

On September 7, 2024, the San Bernardino Riverside Area Alumnae Chapter (SBRAAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., hosted a heartwarming and inspiring prayer breakfast that brought together members and community leaders under the theme, “Coming Together in Love to Reach, Restore, and Impact Our Communities.” Held at the Sterling Natural Resource Center in San Bernardino, this spiritually uplifting event centered on fostering love and unity to make a positive difference in the local community.

Dr. Stephanie Davis-Carruth, SBRAAC 1st Vice President, who served as the Mistress of Ceremonies, opened the event by welcoming everyone with grace and setting the tone for a morning filled with reflection and inspiration. An engaging Ice Breaker activity presented by SFeledier “Let” Thrower followed, bringing attendees together in a lighthearted but meaningful way, helping to establish a sense of unity among participants.

The event was enriched by two moving musical performance by soloist Corinthian Buffington and Yolanda Dancy, whose powerful voice captivated the audience. Both songs created a contemplative atmosphere, enhancing the sense of spiritual community in the room.

The keynote address, delivered by Pastor Samuel J. Casey, was the true highlight of the morning. Pastor Casey, Senior Pastor of New Life Christian Church in Fontana, California, and the executive director of Congregations Organized for Prophetic Engagement (C.O.P.E.), offered a stirring and motivational message. His words energized the entire room, reminding everyone of the power of love, faith, and action in making lasting impacts in their communities. Pastor Casey emphasized the importance of community solidarity, calling for each individual to be a force for restoration and positive change in their neighborhoods.

Dr. Shene’ Bowie-Hussey, SBRAAC’s chapter president, further highlighted the chapter’s mission to reach out to underserved communities and restore hope where it is needed most. She applauded the efforts of the sorority members and encouraged continued engagement in social action initiatives.

A well-organized Social Action Presentation followed, focusing on the vital issue of voter registration. The presentation outlined the critical importance of being informed and engaged in the electoral process at the local, state, and national levels. With upcoming elections on the horizon, the presentation aimed to mobilize attendees to not only register themselves but also encourage others in their communities to exercise their right to vote.

The event was funded in part by a grant from BEI, showcasing the chapter’s commitment to fostering partnerships that support their community outreach goals.

SBRAAC’s September Prayer Breakfast left attendees feeling empowered, united, and ready to take actionable steps toward improving their communities. Through heartfelt speeches, uplifting music, and vital social action education, the event truly embodied its theme, bringing Sorors and guest together in love to reach, restore, and impact the world around them.