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    Growing Inland Achievement President and CEO, Dr. Carlos Ayala, to Retire

    Growing Inland Achievement President and CEO, Dr. Carlos Ayala, to Retire

    Growing Inland Achievement President and CEO, Dr. Carlos Ayala, Dr. Carlos Ayala speaks at GIA’s annual Toward a Shared Vision Summit.  Photo by Robert A. Whitehead

    Ayala is credited with working with the Network to establish Growing Inland Achievement (GIA), as a 501(c)(3), IRS tax-exempt organization; more than doubling the size of the organization; and bringing more than $20 Million to the region for education.

    INLAND EMPIRE, CA – President and CEO of Growing Inland Achievement (GIA), Dr. Carlos Ayala, will retire in June 2023.

    GIA serves both San Bernardino and Riverside Counties as a regional, cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit and business partners in the Inland Empire; collectively, they work towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.

    “It has been an honor to serve the students of the Inland Empire, says Dr. Ayala. “I have learned a great deal about the affordances and constraints our students, families, institutions and community-based organizations face when it comes to student success.”

    Dr. Ayala, age 62, has more than 25 years of service in public education.  During his tenure as CEO, Ayala is credited with working with the network’s partners to establish GIA as a 501(c) (3), tax-exempt organization, more than doubling the size of the organization and raising millions of dollars for Inland Empire education.

    Under his guidance and working with the network members, GIA was accepted as one of only six organizations in the U.S. chosen by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to participate in its Intermediaries for Scale program, also known as Higher Endeavor, bringing $10 million of support to the region for postsecondary transformation reforms.

    “I want to thank the GIA Board of Directors and employees for their commitment to the people and students of the Inland Empire,” Ayala said. “I also wish to thank the vast array of people who are committed to changing the economy of the Inland Empire through education. Their work is notable and I remain convinced that the path forward is at your doorstep—engage collectively.”

    The Board of Directors for GIA will oversee the process of choosing Dr. Ayala’s successor.

    “As its first CEO, Carlos established the organization, including a set of processes to help us move forward,” said Dr. Kim Wilcox, GIA Board Chair and Chancellor of UC Riverside.  “I’m personally grateful for his efforts.”

    “Dr. Ayala brought a deep knowledge of the education landscape, strong leadership, and a passion for positively impacting student lives to our organization,” said Ann Marie Sakrekoff, COO of Growing Inland Achievement. “He is leaving GIA in a great position to succeed in our next chapter. Under Dr. Ayala’s leadership, GIA has become nationally recognized.”

    GIA’s shared vision is that by 2035, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties will be widely recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.

    Watch a video announcement from Dr. Ayala  https://youtu.be/DwqwOkfNyjE

     

    About Growing Inland Achievement

    Growing Inland Achievement, which serves both San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, is a regional cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit, and business partners in the Inland Empire, collectively working towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.

    GIA staff support this work by researching issues and opportunities, developing financial resources for the region, and connecting diverse stakeholders across the two-county region of the Inland Empire.

    GIA’s shared vision is that by 2035, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties will be widely recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities, and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.

    Claremont Links presents Community Service Award to Connie Leyva

    Community Service Award will be presented to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM

    The Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM

    The Claremont Links will present its Community Service Award to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM at the annual Red Dress Luncheon.

     

    Claremont, Calif.   Amaryllis Watkins, president of the Claremont Area (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, announces the return of the Red Dress Luncheon at the Sheraton-Fairplex Hotel in Pomona since the pandemic restrictions were lifted. “This exciting event will be held on February 18, 2023. Reception at 10 am followed by Luncheon and Program at 11:30 am.,” said Watkins.

    Amaryllis Watkins, president of the Claremont Area (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated

    Amaryllis Watkins, president of the Claremont Area (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated

    Community Service Award will be presented to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM- the Inland Empire’s only public media station.

    Mistress of Ceremony for the day is Dr. Soraya M. Coley the sixth president of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.  The Keynote Speaker is Dr. Gloria Morrow, the CEO of GM Psychological Services and Director of Behavioral Health for Unicare Community Health Center, who is one of the nation’s leading clinical psychologists.

    Heart disease is the leading killer for both men and women according to 2021 statistics with Blacks two to three times more likely to die of the deadly disease. The event will focus on heart health, especially that of women.

    “Our goal is to raise awareness about the prevention of heart disease because, according to 2021 statistics, heart disease is the leading killer for both men and women.,” said Watkins. 

    “We encourage prevention that is gained by knowing your “cholesterol and glucose numbers”.  Experts also encourage us all to exercise regularly, manage stress, and maintain a healthy diet and weight. We will have health professionals at the Red Dress luncheon to answer questions and share information on prevention,” said Watkins.

    This event is also a fundraiser that delivers funds for  The Links, Incorporated to provide college scholarships and other services to graduating high school students, continuing college students, and medical and law students.

    The Claremont Area (CA) Chapter of The Links provides transformational community service which includes families transitioning from homelessness and the mentoring of students to ensure their college graduation.

    “Please consider supporting our event by attending the luncheon or by donating on our website www.claremontarealinks.com.  “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others”. ~Booker T. Washington,” said Watkins.

    Biographies

    Dr. Soraya M. Coley ~ Mistress of Ceremony

    Dr. Soraya M. Coley is the sixth president of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona).

    Dr. Soraya M. Coley is the sixth president of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona).

    Dr. Soraya M. Coley is the sixth president of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona). An accomplished educator and administrator with four decades of experience in higher education, Dr. Coley is the first woman and the first African American scholar to be named president of Cal Poly Pomona. She has ushered in a new era of strategic leadership for the campus, establishing a vision for Cal Poly Pomona as a model for an inclusive polytechnic university that inspires creativity, discovery, and innovation embraces local and global challenges, and transforms lives. In 2019, California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Dr. Coley to the California Future of Work Commission, which is charged with making recommendations to the Governor and Legislature regarding the kinds of jobs Californians could have in the decades to come. Additionally, Dr. Coley is a member of the American Council on Education Women’s Network, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, the Pasadena Bioscience Collaborative, and the Los Angeles Coalition for the Economy and Jobs. She is a former member of the board of directors for Children and Family Futures as well as the Kern County Schools’ “Ready to Start” program. In 2000, she was recognized as “One of Ten Women Making a Difference” by Orange County Metro Magazine.

     

     

    Connie Leyva ~ Community Service Award Winner

    Community Service Award will be presented to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM

    Community Service Award will be presented to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM

    The Honorable Connie Leyva is a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM- the Inland Empire’s only public media station. San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Diana Z. Rodrigues said, “Connie Leyva has spent her entire career centering Inland Empire families, and she’ll bring her passion for our region’s success to advance KVCR’s success.” At KVCR, she oversees their long-range plan which includes expanding student training opportunities for careers in media and journalism, broadcasting the country’s only twenty-four-hour national Native American and World Indigenous television channel, growing content relevant to Riverside and San Bernardino counties, and strengthening community partnerships and raising funds.

     

    Dr. Gloria Morrow~ Keynote Speaker

    Dr. Gloria Morrow, the CEO of GM Psychological Services and Director of Behavioral Health for Unicare Community Health Center, is one of the nation's leading clinical psychologists.

    Dr. Gloria Morrow, the CEO of GM Psychological Services and Director of Behavioral Health for Unicare Community Health Center, is one of the nation’s leading clinical psychologists.

    Dr. Gloria Morrow, the CEO of GM Psychological Services and Director of BehavioralHealth for Unicare Community Health Center, is one of the nation’s leading clinical psychologists. She serves as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant and a Lead Trainer for the CBMCS (California Brief Multicultural Competency Scale) Training Program. Dr.Gloria also facilitates a wide range of training relevant to cultural humility and cultural competency. She has served as a consultant for The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia, where. Bernice King serves as the CEO. Dr. Gloria’s work surrounding the role of Spirituality in recovery has gained notoriety with the development of a three-day training and handbook entitled S.A.F.E. (Spirituality and Faith Empowers) to equip the faith community and mental health professionals to help hurting people. She is also known for her extensive leadership and team-building training. Dr. Gloria is a sought-after keynote speaker and workshop facilitator for conferences and retreats, who discusses mental health and life skills topics for women and men. Dr. Gloria has authored several books and has appeared as a frequent guest on various news networks and a variety of radio shows, including Stevie Wonder’s KJLH.

     

    About The Claremont Area Chapter of the Links, Incorporated

    The Claremont Area Chapter in the tradition of the Links, Incorporated is committed to linking our friendship and resources to form a chain of strength, pride, and trust which works to improve the quality of life in our joint communities.  Our voluntary efforts, energies, talents, and thrusts are dedicated to stimulating and supporting the positive goals and aspirations of minorities, through our commitment to our national programmatic thrust. In our 35-year history, the Claremont Area Links has made great strides in developing and implementing exemplary programs in the Inland Empire of Southern California.

    The History of the Black Rose Awards

    Honoring some of the unsung heroes who have worked diligently to improve the lives of others throughout the Inland Empire, The Black Cultural Foundation awarded the 2011 Black Rose Award to the following award community advocates: (back row left to right) Juanita Dawson, James Butts, Jimmie Brown, Herb English Jr., John Futch, Mark Campbell, Vicki Lee, Carl Dameron, Timothy Evans from The Unforgettables Foundation, Dr. Queen Hamilton, (left to right front row) Geraldine Reaves, Jennifer Vaughn-Blakely and Dr. Harold Cebrun. Photo by Chris Sloan.

    theBlack Rose Awards honors of the unsung heroes who have worked diligently to improve the lives of others throughout the Inland Empire, in 2011 The Black Cultural Foundation awarded Black Rose Awards to the following award community advocates: (back row left to right) Juanita Dawson, James Butts, Jimmie Brown, Herb English Jr., John Futch, Mark Campbell, Vicki Lee, Carl Dameron, Timothy Evans from The Unforgettables Foundation, Dr. Queen Hamilton, (left to right front row) Geraldine Reaves, Jennifer Vaughn-Blakely and Dr. Harold Cebrun. Photo by Chris Sloan.

    San Bernardino, Calif.   In 1926 Carter G. Woodson founded the first Black History Week, selecting the second week of February to commemorate the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, whose birthdays were the 12th and 14th, respectively. In the 1940s, efforts began to expand the week to a month, with West Virginia Blacks inaugurating the change.

    Black History Month

    Known then as Negro History Month, the expanded commemoration began to spread and by the mid-1960s had taken root in Chicago, where cultural activist Frederick H. Hammaurabi, who founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, made the change. Later in that decade, young Black college students all over the country (starting with Kent State in Ohio in February of 1969), who were becoming more politically conscious and active, began changing the name to Black History Month.

    In 1974 then-President Gerald Ford met with civil rights leaders Vernon Jordan, Bayard Rustin, Dorothy Height, and Jesse Jackson and two years later made the celebration of Black History Month official. As he said at the time, “…we can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

    As the Association for the Study of African American Life and History notes on its website about the adoption of Black History Month, “Since the mid-1970s, every American president, Democrat, and Republican, has issued proclamations endorsing the Association’s annual theme.”

    Black Rose Awards

    The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”

    The Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of African-American culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps that exist across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”

    The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event. The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation’s 30th Black Rose Award Winners will be recognized at the annual banquet on Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the California State University, San Bernardino, Santos Manuel Student Union 5500 University Parkway.

    Individual tickets are $75 each. For more information or to purchase tickets go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/30th-black-rose-awards-banquet-tickets-491089169927, or contact the Co-Chairs: Kristine Scott at (909) 809-0317 or kscott@socalgas.com or Jim King at (760) 239-8200 or jimking5000@yahoo.com.

    Arlington Rodgers, President of the Foundation, said, “We are enthusiastically looking forward to this year’s Black History Month activities as we extend the hand of friendship and understanding to all ethnic groups throughout the Inland Empire.”

    The Black Rose Awardees for 2023 are: Dr. Juanita H. Scott Humanitarian of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year to Rose Mayes, Executive Director Fair Housing Council of Riverside County; Black Rose Recipients are:  Linda Wright, Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce; Gloria Macias Harrison, President Emeritus, Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees; Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto, Founder of The Women’s Conference; and the Jim King’s Black Rose Corporate Founder’s Award from Dignity Health—Community Hospital of San Bernardino: Administrators June Collison, President, Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer and Staff Dr. Ruby Skinner.

    —30—

    Learn More About the Local Salvation Army

    PHOTO CAPTION: Majors Isaias (left) and Adelma Braga.

    Majors Isaias (left) and Adelma Braga.

    The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887. They support those in need without discrimination. The Salvation Army serves the cities of Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, other mountain communities, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, Mentone, Redlands, and San Bernardino.

    https://youtu.be/NOImNUVdoGA

    Black Rose Young People Award Winners Announced

    Liyah BevinsMs. Bevins, 18, is a psychology major at California Baptist University in Riverside

    Liyah Bevins –  18, is a psychology major at California Baptist University in Riverside

     

    Prince Ogidikpe District Representative for Eloise Gomez Reyes, the California Assembly's Majority Leader, representing the 47th Assembly District

    Prince Ogidikpe District Representative for Eloise Gomez Reyes, the California Assembly’s Majority Leader, representing the 47th Assembly District

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation has announced the winners for its 30th Annual Black Rose Awards in the Margaret Hills Black Rose Inspiration Young Adults category. They are Liyah Bevins and Prince Ogidikpe.

    They will be honored at the Foundation’s annual banquet on February 4, 2023, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at the California State University, San Bernardino, Santos Manuel Student Union, 5500 University Parkway.

    “The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, founded in 1986 to honor and share the richness of our Black heritage, to recognize world diversity and inspire our youth/adults toward leadership, providing scholarships and career opportunities,” said Foundation President Arlington Rodgers.

    The Black Culture Foundation’s mission is to bridge cultural differences across generations through nurturing, educating, and building lasting, respectable, and encouraging communities.

    Bios:

    Liyah Bevins

    Ms. Bevins, 18, is a psychology major at California Baptist University in Riverside. She hopes to combine her passions for teaching and psychology by being a teacher to parents of children with mental health issues. She aims to help them understand what their child is going through and how to help. “I aspire to be someone’s light when they are in a dark place.” She is a member of the Unspeakable Praise Dance Ministry, working to create family bonds in her community ad church. She returned to her high school alma mater to help create a positive environment for students struggling mentally as a member of the school’s Wellness Team.

    Prince Ogidikpe

    Prince earned a bachelor’s degree in biological psychology with a minor in communications at Cal State San Bernardino. A native of Bayelsa State in Nigeria, he moved to the United States in 2010. At CSUSB he was elected to serve terms as the Associated Students’ Executive Vice President and President. He currently works as a District Representative for Eloise Gomez Reyes, the California Assembly’s Majority Leader, representing the 47th Assembly District.

    These two outstanding young people will join 10 other awardees at the Foundation’s February 4th dinner. The other honorees are: Dr. Juanita H. Scott Humanitarian of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year to Rose Mayes, Executive Director Fair Housing Council of Riverside County; Black Rose Recipients are:  Linda Wright, Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce; Gloria Macias Harrison, President Emeritus, Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees; Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto, Founder of The Women’s Conference; and the Jim King’s Black Rose Corporate Founder’s Award from Dignity Health—Community Hospital of San Bernardino: Administrators June Collison, President, Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer and Staff Dr. Ruby Skinner.

    This is the Foundation’s first event since Covid, and “our coffers are bare and in need of replenishment to continue providing scholarships,” said Committee Co-Chair Kristine Scott. Individual tickets are $75 each. For more information or to purchase tickets go to EventBright: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/30th-black-rose-awards-banquet-tickets-491089169927.

    For more information please contact the event’s Co-Chairs: Kristine Scott at (909) 809-0317 or kscott@socalgas.com or Jim King at (760) 239-8200 or jimking5000@yahoo.com.

    —30—

     

    30th Annual Black Rose Awards Set for Saturday, February 4, at Cal State San Bernardino Santos Manuel Student Union

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. The 30th Black Rose Award Winners are Dr. Juanita H. Scott, San Bernardino Valley College Foundation, Humanitarian of the Year Rose Mayes -– Executive Director Fair Housing Council of Riverside County; Black Rose Winners; Linda Wright, Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce; Gloria Macias Harrison, President Emeritus, Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees; Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto, Founder of The Women’s Conference; and three honorees for the Black Rose Founder’s Award from San Bernardino Community Hospital: June Collison President, Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer, and Dr. Ruby Skinner.

    The awards ceremony will also make three posthumous tributes to Black Rose Senior Kings Don Griggs, Jimmy Jews, and Jesse Nichols.

    The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation’s 30th Black Rose Award Winners will be recognized at the annual banquet on Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the California State University, San Bernardino, Santos Manuel Student Union 5500 University Parkway.

    In remembrance of Dr. Margaret Hill, the Black Culture Foundation has renamed its Margaret Hill Community Support Award to the Dr. Margaret Hill Black Rose Young Adults Inspiration Award. This award will present scholarships to two inspirational and outstanding San Bernardino Black young adults graduating grade 12 or in college, said Black Rose Committee Co-Chair Kristine Scott.

    “This year’s Award Gala is held to commemorate Rosa Parks’ birthday,” said Black Rose Committee Co-Chair Jim King.

    Black Culture Foundation President Arlington Rodgers said the foundation’s mission is to bridge cultural differences across generations through nurturing, educating, and building lasting, respectable, and encouraging communities.

    “The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, founded in 1986 to honor and share the richness of our Black heritage, to recognize world diversity and inspire our youth/adults toward leadership, providing scholarships and career opportunities,” said Rodgers.

    “The Foundation has prided itself on giving more than 125 scholarships to community students over the years.  This is our first event since Covid, and our coffers are bare and in need of replenishment to continue providing scholarships,” said Committee Co-Chair Kristine Scott.

    Bios:

    Dr. Juanita H. Scott Humanitarian of the Year Award:

    Rose Mayes

    Rose Mayes

    Rose Mayes

    Executive Director of the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County, Inc. since 1993. Under Rose’s leadership, the Fair Housing Council created Mission Heritage Plaza, a mixed-used project that includes the Fair Housing office, the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California, and 72 units of affordable housing.

    Black Rose Awards:

    Linda D. Wright

    Linda D. Wright

    Linda Wright

    As an organization design specialist, Wright has successfully helped over 70 nonprofit organizations to attain their 501(c) 3 or (c) 6 nonprofit status, 80 for-profit corporations, 15 LLCs, and 10 partnerships.

    The Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce that Wright directed received several awards, including Chamber of the Year three times.  Wright also wrote and created several community educational programs for the Foundation that including prisoner and group home re-entry training.

    Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto

    Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto

    Mayor Deborah Robertson

    On November 3, 2020, the voters of the City of Rialto reaffirmed their confidence in the leadership of Mayor Deborah Robertson, reelecting her to a third four-year term as mayor. Her public service career includes over 20 years on the Rialto Council and over 45 years of public and governmental career public service.

    Mayor Robertson’s visionary leadership has thrust the City of Rialto into the national spotlight as a recognized leader in the areas of public-private partnerships, industrial environmental sustainability endeavors, first-in-the-nation grant-supported partnerships of environmental efficiency projects, as well as a partnership with alternative fuel generation return to the natural gas grid, generating local revenue outcomes, more significant business development, and a skilled job creation platform.

    GLORIA HARRISON

    GLORIA HARRISON

    Gloria Macias Harrison

    Gloria Macias Harrison has balanced two careers plus family and community activism since the early sixties. She is one of the founders of El Chicano (1969), a community weekly that provides a Chicano voice in the Inland Empire.

    Her activist history includes work with the San Bernardino City Unified School District, the War on Poverty, United Farm Workers, Operation Second Chance, and Planned Parenthood.

    Harrison served as President of Crafton Hills College from 2000 until her retirement in 2012. Before that, she was Vice President of Instruction at Crafton Hills College for six years and Dean of Humanities at San Bernardino Valley College for three years and taught community college students for over 20 years.

    Since 2012 she has served on the San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees, currently as Chair of the Board and sits on the Budget and Legislative Committees. She serves on the Crafton Hills College Foundation and the California Housing Foundation.

    Jim King Corporate (Founders) Award:

    Don Griggs

    Don Griggs

    Don Griggs

    Griggs, who passed away in July 2020, pioneered the first Boy Scouts Camporee program for over 100 Black and Latino boys who experienced outdoor camping, learned first aid, and mastered scouting skills. The BSA awarded him its Whitney Young Award in 2015. As a Nordstrom manager, he ensured that people of color were hired and employees of all races were treated equitably and was a volunteer at Priscilla’s Helping Hands HUGS (Home Unity Growth Groups) program.

    Jimmy Jews

    Jimmy Jews

    Jimmy Jews

    Jews broke the color barrier as San Bernardino’s first Black firefighter in 1971 and retired 25 years later, having risen through the ranks to hold the positions of a fire investigator, spokesperson, and finally, Captain in 1989. Jimmy passed away in November 2022, at the age of 79.

    Jesse & Vicki Nichols

    Jesse & Vicki Nichols

    Jesse Nichols

    Nichols was a business owner who founded Nichols Private Security and was a community activist who made time to help with Home and Neighborly Services’ weekly food distributions and serve as volunteer coordinator for the San Bernardino City Unified School District’s foster and homeless program and their Thanksgiving food distribution program. He passed in August 2021.

    San Bernadino Community Hospital

    San Bernadino Community Hospital

    San Bernardino Community Hospital Administration and Staff

    Community Hospital has been serving Inland Empire residents for more than 100 years. As a not-for-profit, non-denominational hospital, its mission is building a healthier community and serving the needs of a diverse population.

    June Collison

    June Collison

    June Collison has served as the President of the Community Hospital of San Bernardino since 2012. As the leader of this 343-bed acute care hospital, she is working to meet the demands of health care reform and the challenges of the local economy.

    Roz Nolan is the hospital’s Chief Nursing Officer and Dr. Ruby Skinner is the Chief Medical Officer. With Ms. Collison, both serve on the hospital’s leadership team.

    Individual tickets are $75 each. For more information or to purchase tickets go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/30th-black-rose-awards-banquet-tickets-491089169927.

    For additional information please contact our Co-Chairs: Kristine Scott at (909) 809-0317, kscott@socalgas.com, or Jim King at p:(760) 239-8200, / jimking5000@yahoo.com.

    The IE’s Hill Teen Center Is Now a Realty – The Project Raised $791,424 on Giving Tuesday

    Pastor Chris Reinhard of the San Bernardino Sandals Church in front of the building to be remodeled into The 10,000 sq. ft. Hill Teen Center. Groundbreaking is scheduled for January of 2023.

    Pastor Chris Reinhard of the San Bernardino Sandals Church in front of the building to be remodeled into The 10,000 sq. ft. Hill Teen Center. Groundbreaking is scheduled for January 2023.

    The Hill Teen Center is now going to happen! The new center is named after the late educator and community leader Dr. Margaret Hill. The center will support teenagers suffering from homelessness, hunger, gang violence, drugs, alcohol, and poverty.

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – The Hill Teen Center, a new refuge for youth in the San Bernardino area, will provide relief and services to Inland Empire teenagers who are at risk for homelessness, hunger, gang violence, drugs, alcohol, and poverty. The center raised more than $791,000 recently on Giving Tuesday.

    The ROGO Foundation, in partnership with Sandals Church, led the effort and will build and operate the teen center on the Sandals Church property in San Bernardino. Groundbreaking is scheduled for January 2023.

    “We are very excited about what this money will mean for our community,” said Scot Camden, Advancement Director for the ROGO Foundation. “Our community banded together to make The Hill Teen Center dream, a reality. This center tells our teenagers that they matter to us and we will do everything in our power to help them lead healthy and happy lives.”

    The Hill Teen Center is a 10,000-square-foot facility delivering FREE clinical counseling, tutoring, skill – and life-coaching, mentorship, and laundry facilities, as well as a safe and fun environment for teenagers to spend time with friends.

    An energy efficient laundry facility opens to students of surrounding middle and high schools, free of charge, allowing them access to the facility, which will include water efficient washers/dryers (along with detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.) and a lounge for them to hang out in while they wait for their laundry.  Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE

    An energy-efficient laundry facility opens to students of surrounding middle and high schools, free of charge, allowing them access to the facility, which will include water-efficient washers/dryers (along with detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.) and a lounge for them to hang out in while they wait for their laundry. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE

    The project is estimated to cost $1.3 million to complete, and the money raised lets much of the work begin, as the organization continues to fundraise the remaining $510,000.

    “The Hill Teen Center is very much aligned with my own vision for the broader community,” said Ken Ramirez, former Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, and contributor to the project. “It provides a road map to make a difference in the lives of our young adults.”

    Ramirez, an active member of the Inland Empire for many years, mobilized his network to get the word out about The Hill Teen Center and the Giving Tuesday crowdfunding campaign.

    “My own childhood motivated me to want to bring hope to teenagers struggling with adverse conditions,” said Ramirez.

    COURTYARD PATIOThis eco-friendly, drought tolerant landscaped patio space will support various programming opportunities, including open-mic nights, life skill classes, and micro-concerts, while also being accessible to students to hang out with their friends or work on their homework. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE

    COURTYARD PATIO
    This eco-friendly, drought-tolerant landscaped patio space will support various programming opportunities, including open-mic nights, life skill classes, and micro-concerts, while also being accessible to students to hang out with their friends or work on their homework. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE

    “One in ten youths in the City of San Bernardino is homeless. In the 2019/20 school year, 30,270 San Bernardino County K-12 students were identified as homeless or lacking secure housing. The problem is getting worse as this is a 6.6 percent increase from the previous year,” said Pastor Chris Reinhard of the San Bernardino Sandals Church.

    “These factors, along with alcoholism and drug addiction, have left too many students and their families hopeless, with little belief that their lives will have any meaningful change. This teen center will start to change that,” said Pastor Reinhard.

    “And after all, that’s really what it’s all about—delivering a beacon of hope,” said Ramirez, “helping to show that life has a lot to offer, but sometimes we need to be shown what’s possible.”

    LOUNGEA fully furnished and beautifully designed lounge space for students to rest, relax, or even get some studying done. While safe and secure alternatives to hanging out on the streets are hard to come by, this lounge will serve as a sanctuary for teenagers—a place where they’ll feel safe to let their guard down. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE

    LOUNGE
    A fully furnished and beautifully designed lounge space for students to rest, relax or even get some studying done. While safe and secure alternatives to hanging out on the streets are hard to come by, this lounge will serve as a sanctuary for teenagers—a place where they’ll feel safe to let their guard down. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE

    The Hill Teen Center is located at Sandals Church in San Bernardino at 3701 N Sierra Way.

    The Hill Teen Center is named after the late educator and community leader Dr. Margaret Hill. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE

    For more information about The Hill Teen Center, go to TheHillTC.com, or call The ROGO Foundation at (951) 800-7865.

    COUNSELING AND TUTORINGPartnering with licensed professionals and local organizations, several rooms and spaces will be available for free counseling to support students’ mental and emotional health needs and tutoring to broaden their academic/career opportunities in the future, as well as STEM spaces to enhance their learning.

    COUNSELING AND TUTORING
    Partnering with licensed professionals and local organizations, several rooms and spaces will be available for free counseling to support students’ mental and emotional health needs and tutoring to broaden their academic/career opportunities in the future, as well as STEM spaces to enhance their learning.

    About Sandals Church

    It is a Christian church affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention and has an average weekly attendance of over 13,000 adults and children. The vision of the church is “to be real with ourselves, God and others.” Sandals Church holds services every Saturday and Sunday.

    About The ROGO Foundation

    We exist to develop the two critical components of healthy churches; the people that lead them and the places where they gather. We merge with struggling churches, remodel, and upgrade the facilities, and implement our proven ministry leadership model so that their legacies can continue with our resources and support. We also plant Sandals Church campus locations to further reach the lost with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

    Dameron Communications selected as “Top PR Agencies 2022”

    Dameron Communications of San Bernardino, CA has been honored with a recognition by UpCity.com in its selection of "Top PR Agencies 2022."

    Dameron Communications of San Bernardino, CA has been honored with recognition by UpCity.com in its selection of “Top PR Agencies 2022.”

    San Bernardino, Calif. – Dameron Communications of San Bernardino, CA has been honored with recognition by UpCity.com in its selection of “Top PR Agencies 2022.”

    Carl Dameron, founder of Dameron Communications said: “This is quite an honor for us. The fact that UpCity.com included Dameron Communications in its selection of “Top PR Agencies 2022,” signals that our constant efforts toward business excellence are paying off. We are proud to be included in this recognition.”

    Dameron Communications is a team of 15 diverse, talented communications professionals who are experts in research, advertising, public relations, and government and community relations.

    The Dameron Communications Team

    The Dameron Communications Team

    Dameron Communications’ is an Advertising and public relations agency based in Southern California receiving award-winning client accolades, and delivering effective Advertising and public relations for more than 30 years.

    “We infuse research and creativity into our advertising and public relations methods to deliver winning and measurable results,” said Dameron.

    He added, “We serve clients who make the world a better place: businesses small or large; candidates; governments or nonprofits; and products, services, or causes. We reach our clients’ communications goals.”

    Following the publication of Dameron Communications’ selection for UpCity.com’s Top PR Agencies 2022 list, American Registry seconded the honor and added Dameron Communications to the “Registry of Business Excellence™”. An exclusive recognition plaque, shown above, has been designed to commemorate this honor.

    For more information on Dameron Communications, located in San Bernardino, CA please call 909-534-9500, or visit Dameron Communications.com.

    Dameron Communications has served Southern California clients since 1988

    Grand Marshalls Announced for San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza January 16th

    James Ramos, California State Assemblymember is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave.

    James Ramos, California State Assemblymember is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday, January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave.

     

    San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave.

    San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday, January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave.

     

    San Bernardino Mayor Elect Helen Tran is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave.

    San Bernardino Mayor Elect Helen Tran is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday, January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave.

     

    San Bernardino Chief of Police Darren J. Goodman is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave.

    San Bernardino Chief of Police Darren J. Goodman is one of the four Grand Marshalls for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza on Saturday, January 16 on the WestSide of San Bernardino from Mt. Vernon to California Street on Baseline Ave. 

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.  Grand Marshals for the 2023 San Bernardino MLK Parade and Extravaganza are James Ramos, California State Assemblymember; Joe Baca, Jr., San Bernardino County Supervisor, Fifth District; Helen Tran, San Bernardino City Mayor-Elect; and our new African American Chief of Police for the City of San Bernardino Darren L Goodman.

    The parade celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

    “We are honored to have these illustrious leaders of our community be the Grand Marshalls for the MLK DAY Parade and Extravaganza,” said Rich Wallace, president of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce.

    The MLK Day Parade & Extravaganza will be held January 16th on San Bernardino’s Westside along Baseline Street, from Mt Vernon Ave. to California St.

    “Come rejoice with vendors, music, community booths, a First 5 children’s zone, fun, and entertainment at the parade and at the Extravaganza at Ann Shirelles Park, between California Street and North Pennsylvania Ave., between West Baseline Street and West 15th Street,” said Lue Dowdy, Parade Chair.

    Dowdy added, “We are still accepting applications for entertainers, vendors, food vendors, classic and custom cars, and motorcycles.”

    The event starts at 11:00 am at the Graciano Gomez Elementary School at Mt. Vernon and Baseline, with the Parade starting at 1:00 pm and continuing west on Baseline, ending at Anne Shirelles Park on California Street.

    Participating organizations for The San Bernardino MLK Day Parade include The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, Lue Productions Community Umbrella Services, Dameron Communications, YouthBuild Inland Empire, Chords Youth Enrichment Program, San Bernardino Valley College, San Bernardino Airport, Off the Chain Alliance, Westside Story newspaper, Empire Talks Back and the Black Health Coalition.

    For more information or to sign up to be in the MLK Day Parade go to BlackChamberofCommerce.org and follow the link for information and registration or call (888) 466-7408.

    —30—

    The Citrus City Brass to Play at The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Kick OFF

    Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).

    Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— The Citrus City Brass will play at the Red Kettle Kick-Off this Thursday, November 17th at 5:30 PM, at the Bear Springs Hotel Events Center, 27923 Highland Ave, Highland, CA 92346.

    “The Salvation Army has a wonderful brass band that played at recent Red Kettle Kick Offs; however, they were already booked this year. I was lucky to hear The Citrus City Brass and we are blessed to have them play for us this year. They are wonderful musicians,said Major Isaias Braga.

    “We are honored to play for the Salvation Army,” said Kenley Nakao, Trumpeter, Citrus City Brass LLC., CEO  “They hear a lot of brass music so we are honored to be asked to play for them at their annual fundraiser. Please watch our video of “Love of My Life” by Freddie Mercury at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8cvkRqE6JY.”

    Citrus City Brass, a quintet based out of Redlands, CA. Our resident members include Kenley Nakao, Mark Perez (trumpets), and Tom Francis (trombone).

    For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.

    For nearly 50 years, Chairwoman Valbuena has held numerous elected and appointed positions within San Manuel tribal government.

    The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has been a sponsor of this event and Tribal Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena will be giving the keynote address this year. She’s an outstanding speaker and always has a message worth listening to,said Major Braga.

    Hungry, homeless, hopeless? Trouble paying monthly bills, drug, or alcohol addiction? The Salvation Army helps people in need with all these problems and more. Different programs have different funding sources and one of the most important sources is the annual Red Kettle Kick Off campaign each Christmas season.

    The Salvation Army bell ringers in front of your favorite stores collect money that provides food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; food baskets available daily, hot meals, clothing, and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.

    During the Christmas season, The Salvation Army also delivers holiday food baskets to about 500 local families and provides toys to children whose parents cannot afford them.

    On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.

    Donations can be made online at https://sanbernardino.salvationarmy.org by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California.

    Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373.

    For more information call (909) 792-6868.

     

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.

    The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination.  They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.

     

    About The Citrus City Brass

    Citrus City Brass LLC.’s mission is to promote the enjoyment of music and highlight the continuous Evolution of the Brass Quintet. Through multi-genre concerts, engaging educational outreach programs, and the inclusion of multicultural diverse backgrounds to supply a well-rounded approach towards instrumental music.  You can also check us out on Facebook and Instagram @citruscitybrass where we post up to date performances, music content, and more.  For more information call (808) 344-6194.