“These workshops are designed to help people of color access and increase the number and size of contracts they secure through the procurement process,” stated Rev. George Lamb, SBC Equity Element Group chair.
The goal of the event, “Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses: Your 101 Guide to Contract Bidding Success,” is to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in contract bidding.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – In collaboration with San Bernardino County, The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group (SBC Equity Element Group) has created a workshop series designed to increase the number of minority-owned businesses that can access the millions of dollars in contracts the county will award this year.
The goal of the event, “Empowering Minority-Owned Businesses: Your 101 Guide to Contract Bidding Success,” is to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to boost their chances of winning County contracts.
“The SBC Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. These workshops are designed to help people of color access and increase the number and size of contracts obtained through the procurement process,” said Rev. George Lamb, chair of the SBC Equity Element Group.
Workshop Objectives:
Understanding and Managing ePro: Attendees will learn how to register, manage their vendor accounts, reset credentials, and navigate the ePro system to search for open bids.
Review Bid Proposals and Ask Questions: The workshop will cover County bid request templates, completion of the Local Vendor Self-Certification Form, and strategies for effectively posting questions to clarify bid requirements.
Respond to Bids Successfully: Participants will master creating and submitting precise quotes in ePro while avoiding common pitfalls.
“We are committed to increasing the number of local and minority-owned businesses contracting with San Bernardino County,” said San Bernardino County Director of Purchasing, Pete Mendoza.
“Seize the chance to empower your business and improve your bidding skills,” said Rev. Lamb.
For more information, please contact Sandra Abarca at (909) 387-4261.
For additional information about the SBC Equity Element Group, contact Info@SBCEEG.org.
The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions. We believe that Equity Elevates Everyone.
Photo Caption: Reverend George Lamb – President and CEO of the Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.), as the inaugural Chair of the San Bernardino County Equity Element Group.
“I am privileged and honored to serve as the inaugural Chair of the Equity Element Group,” said Reverend George Lamb.
“I am privileged and honored to serve as the inaugural chair of the SBC Equity Element Group,” said Rev. Lamb. “This is an incredible opportunity for us to take responsibility for leading ourselves, our families, and our communities in creating a transformative, just, and equitable society for Black residents in San Bernardino County. We have a lot of work to do to create a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly for Black individuals and people of color.”
“Rev. Lamb serves the community with unwavering dedication and invests significant time in improving the quality of life for individuals residing in San Bernardino County,” stated County Assistant Executive Officer Diana Alexander.
As the CEO of Millennium Man Consultants, Rev. Lamb negotiates contractual agreements with community-based organizations, non-profit entities, and various government agencies at the county and state levels. He focuses on organizational management, operational effectiveness, and marketing strategies.
Rev. Lamb stated, “As a member of the Community Vital Signs Steering Committee, I chair the Community Engagement sub-committee, co-chair the Public Safety sub-committee, and also serve on the Strategic Plan Implementation, Education, Economic Development, and Nominations Select sub-committees.” He also serves on the First 5 San Bernardino Advisory Board.
He has served on the San Bernardino County Homeless Veterans Advisory Board and Taskforce and as a member of the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools’ Wellness Strategy Action Team.
Rev. Lamb is the retired president of the American Evangelical Christian Churches’ Board of Directors and the founder and executive director of Millennium Man Ministries, a non-profit charitable trust organization. He also serves as the president of the Board of Directors.
His commitment to servant leadership and passion for the Kingdom of God and its people enable him to effectively coordinate community resources, service providers, and county agencies. This coordination focuses on developing readiness skills for individuals in faith-based organizations (FBOs) and the staff, community-based organizations (CBOs), and other agencies serving them.
Rev. Lamb received degrees from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary and Patten University. He leads the Men’s Ministry and co-directs the Educational Ministry with his wife, Jamie. They have three adult children and six grandchildren. George is an agent of cultural change and community transformation; he continually works to turn perceived “liabilities” into opportunities for growth and improvement.
On Tuesday, June 23, 2020, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution declaring “Racism a Public Health Crisis.” The Board authorized the County Administrative Office to form an element group within the Countywide Vision focused on equity.
“The Equity Element Group was formed of influential and prolific members of the Black community who are working together to continue improving our communities,” Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman said when the Equity Element Group was formed. Hagman served as chairman of the Board of Supervisors at the time. “We are looking forward to the recommendations they will make to help us close gaps in services and opportunities for Black residents and people of color who live and work in our county.”
According to Alexander, the San Bernardino County Equity Element Group is tasked with identifying racial disparities impacting our county’s residents and recommending campaigns and programs to address these issues. The group will also identify initiatives already underway within the county government or the community that can be highlighted and supported.
For more information about the SBC Equity Element Group, email Info@SNCEEG.org.
About The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group
The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions.
“The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and driving systemic change, the group is shaping a brighter future for all,” said the Rev. George Lamb, chair of the Equity Element Group.
San Bernardino, CA – The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group (SBC Equity Element Group) is a dynamic force for positive change in San Bernardino County. It is dedicated to addressing systemic inequities and creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly people of color.
The SBC Equity Element Group was created shortly after the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed a resolution declaring Racism A Public Health Crisis on Tuesday, June 23, 2020. The resolution tasked the County Administrative Office with forming an equity group to represent the 11th element of the Countywide Vision.
“The SBC Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and driving systemic change, the Group is shaping a brighter future for all,” said SBC Equity Element Group chair Rev. George Lamb.
“The SBC Equity Element Group is charged with determining where there may be racial disparities among our residents in the county, recommend campaigns and programs to address those issues, and identify initiatives that are already underway within County government or in the community that can be highlighted and supported,” explained San Bernardino County Administrative Assistant Executive Officer Diana Alexander.
In 2020, the inaugural SBC Equity Element Group was comprised of Black community leaders.
A Collaborative Approach to Equity
The Equity Element Group’s founding members were inspiring leaders from various community organizations handpicked by the County Board of Supervisors. This Group was dedicated to breaking down barriers and championing inclusivity. Among its members were:
Jordan Brown – Black Voice News
Keynasia Buffong – National Black Grads
Pastor Samuel Casey – Churches Organized for Prophetic Engagement (COPE)
Willie Ellison – Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce
George Lamb – Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.)
Tammy Martin-Ryles – Black Chamber of Commerce
Tremaine Mitchell – Youth Action Project
Phyllis K. Morris-Green – Reimagining Our Communities (ROC)
The late Deborah Smith-Gilbert was a highly esteemed member of the IE National Council of Negro Women. (IENCNW). Her contributions to the Equity Element Group and the community will forever resonate in our memories and be treasured deeply.
Terrance Stone – Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy
Bill Thomas – NAACP, High Desert Branch
Dina Walker – BLU Educational Foundation
Our departed colleague Reggie Webb was a valued member of the Cooperative Economic Empowerment Movement (CEEM) and the Westside Action Group (WAG). His contributions to Equity Element Group and the community will always be remembered and cherished.
Keith Willis – 100 Black Men of the Inland Empire
Chache Wright – NAACP
“In 2024, the SBC Equity Element Group transformed due to changes in its membership. We are proud to introduce the steering committee,” said Rev. Lamb. “Additional members are being added and will be announced at the end of February.”
Steering Committee Members Are:
George Lamb – Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.)Committee Chair
Theodore B. Miller, Esq., a co-principal and co-founder, leads the engagement.
Photo Caption: Theodore B. Miller, Esq., Equity & Results
Communications and Public Information
Carl M. Dameron, Creative Director Dameron Communications. An Inland Empire-based full-service advertising and public relations firm.
Photo Caption: Carl M. Dameron, Dameron Communications
Key Accomplishments
The SBC Equity Element Group, in collaboration with the San Bernadino County Administrative office, has made significant strides in its mission to create a more equitable future for San Bernardino County:
Partnering with Equity and Results: retained the firm of Equity and Results, a multiracial, collectively led learning organization rooted in advancing racial equity and liberation through institutional change. The engagement is led by Theodore B. Miller, Esq., Co-Principal.
Collaborating with the County Purchasing Department: working to increase contracting opportunities for minority-owned businesses in the county’s procurement process.
Advancing Equity and Inclusivity within County Departments: Collaborated with county departments to identify and correct any policies or practices that have created or could create barriers to achieving equity.
Contributing to the Countywide Vision: Representatives from the SBC Equity Element Group joined the Countywide Vision leadership team to assist with developing initiatives that promote and help fulfill the countywide vision.
Launching a New Interactive Website: The Group is excited to announce the launch of its new website in the first quarter of 2025. The website will provide a platform for community engagement, job opportunities, and business development.
A Brighter Future
“The San Bernardino County Equity Element Group is committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive San Bernardino County. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and driving systemic change, the Group is shaping a brighter future for all,” said Rev. Lamb.
He continued, “The SBC Equity Element Group has developed a logo and slogan to emphasize that “Equity Elevates Everyone.” The Group’s initial efforts focused on enhancing equity for the Black community, and as we move forward, our work will encompass all people of color; the results will benefit everyone.”
For example, although initially perceived as a remedy for racial discrimination against Blacks, the provisions of the 1964 Civil Rights Act prohibited discrimination based on sex and race in employment practices, public accommodations, and federally funded programs. Furthermore, it bolstered voting rights enforcement and facilitated the desegregation of educational institutions. These hard-won rights not only helped Blacks be more successful, but they significantly advanced all women, Latinos, Asians, and individuals of color.
Photo Caption: SBC Equity Element Group at the State of the County Event with County leadership: Diana Alexander, San Bernardino County Assistant Executive Officer; Tracy Reece, San Bernardino County Probation Chief; Bill Thomas, President of the NAACP, High Desert Branch; Phyllis K. Morris-Green, President, Reimagining Our Communities (ROC); Thomas Sone, San Bernardino County Public Defender; and Rev. George Lamb – President, Faith Advisory Council for Community Transformation (F.A.C.C.T.) and SBC Equity Element Group Chair.
For additional information about the SBC Equity Element Group, contact Info@SBCEEG.org.
The SBC Equity Element Group’s mission is to identify and address systemic inequities within San Bernardino County. It focuses on creating a more just and equitable society for all residents, particularly Black residents and people of color. The Group strives to dismantle barriers, promote inclusivity, and empower marginalized communities through data-driven strategies and community-centered solutions.
The 32nd Annual Black Rose Awards will honor 10 outstanding community leaders with lifetime achievement honors called Black Rose Awards.
The Black Culture Foundation invites individuals, organizations, and businesses to participate in this historic event. “Whether you are attending the events, marching in the parade, or volunteering to ensure the events are a success, your involvement will help make this year’s Black History celebrations a resounding success,” said Dameron.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.—The Black Culture Foundation announces the Annual San Bernardino Black History Celebration, featuring the 46th Black History Parade, Festival’s 32nd annual Black Rose Awards. Both events are on Saturday, February 1, and Gospel Fest on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
“This year’s theme, “Black History is Alive!” celebrates Black Americans’ rich heritage, ongoing contributions, and bright future,” said Black Culture Foundation President Carl M. Dameron
Black Rose Awards:
Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Time: 5:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.
Location: Cal State San Bernardino, The Santos Manuel Student Union, 5500 University Pkwy., San Bernardino, CA 92407
The 32nd Annual Black Rose Awards will honor 10 outstanding community leaders with lifetime achievement honors called Black Rose Awards. Awardees, including Dr. Hardy Brown, Sr., will be honored as Humanitarian of the Year, and the San Manuel Band Of Mission Indians will receive the Jim King Founders Award.
“The parade, a beloved tradition since 1968, will march through the heart of Westside San Bernardino, inspiring the community with its vibrant energy and cultural significance,” said Dameron.
Black History Parade Details:
Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Time: 9:00 A.M.
Route: Baseline and Mt. Vernon to California Street
“The parade, a beloved tradition since 1968, will march through the heart of Westside San Bernardino, inspiring the community with its vibrant energy and cultural significance,” said Dameron.
Black History Festival Details:
Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
Time: 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Location: Arroyo High School, 1881 W. Base Line St., San Bernardino, CA 92411
According to Dameron, the festival will feature a diverse range of vendors, performers, and community organizations. Attendees can enjoy delicious food, cultural arts, and live entertainment, including comedians, dancers, and singers.
Gospel Fest Details:
Date: Saturday, February 22
Time: 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Location: TBD
Chair Bishop Kenneth Wells
A celebration of Gospel, celebrating the rich Black history of gospel music with performances from some of our area’s best gospel choirs.
The Black Culture Foundation invites individuals, organizations, and businesses to participate in this historic event. “Whether you are attending the events, marching in the parade, or volunteering to ensure the events are a success, your involvement will help make this year’s Black History celebrations a resounding success,” said Dameron.
Join the Celebration
The Black Culture Foundation invites individuals, organizations, and businesses to participate in this historic event. “Whether you are attending the events, marching in the parade, or volunteering to ensure the events are a success, your involvement will help make this year’s Black History celebrations a resounding success,” said Dameron.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The Black Culture Foundation is seeking sponsors to help make this event successful. Sponsorship packages offer a variety of benefits, including logo placement, advertising mentions, booth space at the festival, and tickets to the Black Rose Awards are available online at SBBCFoundation.org.
About the Black Culture Foundation
The Black Culture Foundation’s noble purpose is to kindle an interest in and deeper appreciation of Black culture, raise community awareness about the achievements of Black individuals, past and present, and organize an annual Black History Month parade and associated cultural events. Furthermore, the foundation seeks to transcend cultural barriers by uniting the local community and celebrating this event with unity and brotherhood.
‘Keep Carl Alive.’ These three words guided IEHP member Carl Dameron through a journey of resilience—overcoming diabetes, leukemia, lymphoma, and the heartbreaking murder of his son.
With the care of his doctors, the support of IEHP, LaSalle Medical Associates, Loma Linda University Medical Center, and his own determination to be there for his daughters, Carl persevered in fulfilling a cherished dream: walking his youngest down the aisle. In November 2023, that dream came true.
As we approach the new year, Carl’s story is a powerful reminder to prioritize our health, cherish the moments that matter, and be there for the ones we love. “IEHP is committed to providing compassionate care that makes a difference—because when you feel cared for, it’s the greatest gift of all,” said Michelle Rai, IEHP ‘s Chief Communications & Marketing Officer.
📺 Watch the full video on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3P6Vwqh
“We work with the City of Redlands side-by-side on the City’s streets to find and help unhoused individuals and families get settled into permanent housing,” said Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel Commander Major Isaias Braga.
Photo Caption: About The Salvation Army in San Bernardino County
The City of Redlands presented a grant for $1,354,487. “We work with the City of Redlands side-by-side on Redlands’ streets to find and help unhoused individuals and families get settled into permanent housing,” said Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel Major Isaias Braga. As a result, 169 people now have a permanent place to live and call home.
PHOTO CAPTION: The City of Redlands presented a check for $1,354,487 in grant funds to the San Bernardino Citadel of The Salvation Army at the Red Kettle Kickoff Event on November 12th. Left to Right: Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Divisional Commander; David Rabindranath, Homeless Solutions Manager for the City of Redlands; Mario Saucedo, Redlands Council Member; Major Adelma Braga, and Major Isias Braga, San Bernardino Salvation Army Citadel Commanders.
The City of San Bernardino emerged as the next largest contributor, demonstrating remarkable resolve amid its fiscal challenges. In a spirit of giving, the City proudly presented a generous grant of $319,141.55 to the Salvation Army, presented by its devoted mayor, Helen Tran, City Manager and councilmember-elect Treasure Ortiz, and members of the City’s homeless outreach team.
PHOTO CAPTION: The City of San Bernardino presented a check for $319,141.55 in grant funding to the San Bernardino Citadel of the Salvation Army. This will help fund programs that benefit needy individuals and families in the Inland Empire. Left to right: Southern California Divisional Director of Development and Communication Peter Irwin; Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Divisional Commander; Councilmember-elect Treasurer Ortiz; City Manager Rochelle Clayton; Mayor Helen Tran; Assistant to the City Manager Corey Hodges; Housing Division Manager Trina Perez; and Homeless Services Coordinator Gabriela Leon.
Stater Bros. Charities, a valued partner of the Salvation Army, has generously donated $75,000. This contribution will support vital food donation initiatives and sit-down meal programs designed for the region’s underserved and under-resourced communities. Thanks to the Salvation Army’s dedicated efforts, individuals and families now have access to healthy meals that they may not have been able to afford otherwise, bringing hope and nourishment to those in need.
PHOTO CAPTION: Stater Bros. presented a check for $75,000, $15,000 for the San Bernadino Citadel, and $60,000 to other Salvation Army corps to help fund food giveaways and sit-down meals for needy individuals and families in the Inland Empire. From left are Southern California Divisional Director of Development and Communication Peter Irwin, SVA Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, Tasso Panos, Stater Bros. Markets Store Manager, Loni Maxfield Stater Bros. Charities Coordinator, Nancy Negrette, Stater Bros. Charities Chairman and President and SVA Majors Adelma and Isaias Braga.
As Thanksgiving and Christmas rapidly approach, the Salvation Army needs donations of hams, canned food, cash, checks, or gift cards to support its holiday meal programs. Donors can visit the Salvation Army’s Citadel Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, CA 92373, or give online at SBCSVA.org.
To register to help ring the bells at a local store location, volunteer to help at the Angel Tree location in the Inland Center Mall, distribute toys and food, or serve sit-down meals, please call (909) 792-6868.
Photo Caption: A slide show of photos taken at the Red Kettle Kickoff
The Salvation Army is an evangelical branch of the Universal Christian Church that offers holistic programs without discrimination to individuals. It serves the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.
The Salvation Army is one of the world’s largest charitable and service organizations. It has been serving San Bernardino since 1888 and supporting those in need.
“Great food and great people are waiting for you at the American Advertising Awards meeting on Wednesday, November 20, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Taco Station, 4088 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA, said AAF-IE ADDY Chair Mark Landon.
RIVERSIDE, CALIF.— John McCarthy calls all creatives, agencies, media companies, freelancers, and students in the Inland Empire. The American Advertising Federation—Inland Empire chapter (AAF-IE) is coming together to introduce the new president and board and enlighten you on how to gain national recognition for your advertising work.
The Taco Station sponsors an AAF-IE meeting with complimentary tacos and delicious Mexican food on Wednesday, November 20, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Taco Station, 4088 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA.
“Join us and connect with advertising professionals in your area for collaboration. Together, we will share insights, learn essential advertising tips, and discover shortcuts to success. Also, find out how to participate in the American Advertising Awards, the foremost competition in the U.S. advertising industry,” said American Advertising Awards Chair Mark Landon.
Landon is active in the American Advertising Federation and was elected to local, regional, and national positions. He has also served on the national American Advertising Awards committee for 20 years. He received the AAF Silver Medal and was the first recipient of the AAF Excellence in District Leadership Award.
Meet the new board of directors and learn how to submit a winning ADDY awards submission.
“Fuel your creativity with some delicious complimentary appetizers. And don’t hesitate to ask your burning questions about the advertising industry—expert advice will be right there for you,” said Inland Empire Chapter President John McCarthy.
It’s an opportunity to meet and cavort with local advertising agencies, marketing professionals, graphic designers, web developers, filmmakers, photographers, radio stations, TV stations, cable stations, newspapers, magazines, billboard companies, freelancers, college students, and advertising departments in business and government.
AAF-IE is a group of advertising and graphic design professionals who work for national and regional companies, government organizations, and non-profit agencies. The AAF-IE brings guest speakers to lecture on advertising and design topics. It also holds the local American Advertising Awards, the industry’s largest and most representative competition in the United States. The group was founded in the late 1980s
“The Black Culture Foundation is accepting applications for its 2025 Student College Scholarship Awards,” said President Carl M. Dameron.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. –The Black Culture Foundation is accepting applications for its 2025 Black Rose Festival student scholarships. The Black Culture Foundation Scholarship Program provides scholarships for financial assistance to graduating high school and current college students.
“This scholarship seeks to support civic-minded students who want to give back to the region and demonstrate motivation, perseverance, and a sincere desire to use their education to benefit the Inland Empire and underserved communities,” said Scholarship Chair Rev. Bronica Martindale.
“Winners will receive a one-time scholarship of $1,000 to $3,000 to an accredited public or private four-year, bachelor’s degree-granting institution or two-year community college associate degree-granting institution of higher learning,” said Black Culture Foundation President Carl M. Dameron.
Students who intend to work in the region will be given priority upon graduation. The scholarships are funded when students officially enroll. Awards may be used for tuition, books, fees, and living expenses. High school seniors and current undergraduate college students are encouraged to apply.
Applicants will be selected based on the following criteria:
Financial need
Letter of recommendation
GPA of 3.5 or above
Community service
High school senior or current bachelor’s degree holder
Attend a college within the Inland Empire
Full-time undergraduate or graduate student enrolling in the fall of 2025
Intent to work in the Inland Empire upon graduation from college/university
Eligible students must submit 1) the application form; 2) a letter of recommendation from a counselor and another person not related to the applicant who is familiar with the applicant’s academic capabilities, skills, community service, and volunteer activities; 3) a current report card/transcript (unofficial is acceptable).
Final award recipients must provide evidence of enrollment in the academic institution to which funds will be provided on behalf of the recipient.
Interested students can obtain an application online from the Black Culture Foundation.
On Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., the Black Culture Foundation will honor and celebrate the remarkable work of these individuals at the 33rd Annual Black Rose Awards in the Santos Manuel Student Union at Cal State San Bernardino. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and program advertising are available online at the foundation’s website.
About the Black Rose Awards
The Black Rose Awards serve as a tribute to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, a non-profit established in 1968 by a small group of individuals who felt that our school systems have failed to include Black history studies in regular curriculums nationwide. As a result, all students miss the chance to learn more about this crucial part of our country’s history.
The Black Culture Foundation’s noble purpose is to kindle an interest in and deeper appreciation of Black culture, raise community awareness about the achievements of Black individuals, past and present, and organize an annual Black History Month parade and associated cultural events. Furthermore, the foundation seeks to transcend cultural barriers by uniting the local community and celebrating this event with unity and brotherhood.
The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.
The film “Witchez” is shooting in Downtown Riverside. Actresses Heaven Gray, India Camille Glover, and Sarah Cantero at the Mission Galleria discuss the benefits of being a witch in Riverside, California.
RIVERSIDE, Calif.—A new dark comedy is filming in downtown Riverside. The feature film “Witchez” is the brainchild of Director, Writer, and Producer Sarah Cantero, along with her co-producers Ilana Regalado and Heaven Gray. Their lead Director of Photography is 24-year-old Giacomo Centty.
According to Cantero, this production defies Hollywood’s male-driven norms by placing women in creative roles, including producer, director, and actor. Their work aspires to bring more women into the behind-the-scenes part of filmmaking while jumpstarting the film industry in Riverside.
The filmmakers spearheading this effort created “Witchez.” collaboratively using community involvement, local resources, and a true sense of creative partnership.
“Witchez’s” goal is to tap into the lucrative genre of iconic witch movies, like “The Craft,” which grossed $55.6 million worldwide, and “The Witch,” which earned more than $40 million.
The producers believe that “Witchez” has the same potential to become a significant success, elevating those who helped bring it to life.
Witchez actresses, left to right: Heaven Gray, Sarah Cantero, and India Camille Glover on the streets of Riverside, California.
“We enthusiastically invite those who celebrate the arts and creativity to join in the fun and become part of this groundbreaking project,” said Producer Sarah Cantero.
“We are filmmakers dedicated to making movies that tell stories to entertain people, foster collaboration, and deliver a unique vision of horror and its similarities to daily life,” said Ilana Regalado.
True to its co-op nature, the filmmakers are crowd-sourcing the $55,000 to make the film through GoFundMe. “All contributions—whether time, energy or financial—are rewarded with a percentage of the film’s final profit. This isn’t just about creating a movie; it’s about building something long-lasting for the community,” said Cantero.
While 2023 was seen as the year of women in the film industry with the success of “Barbie,” “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour,” and “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” a recent USC Annenberg study shows no significant gains for women in 2023. Women represent only 6% of Hollywood directors, which these producers are determined to change.
The survey shows that in 2023, out of 116 directors, 12.1% were women, an increase from 2007, when the percentage was 2.7%. Yet, there’s little to celebrate, given that in 2022, 9% of top box office directors were women.
“We see this as a community film with a powerful outcome—the inclusion of women in filmmaking while creating an asset that belongs to the people who contribute to its creation,” said Cantero. “This is an opportunity for everyone involved to create art, build a new film community, and profit from their participation.”
Donations are being accepted via the GoFundMe link to support the film’s mission and join Riverside’s growing art movement.
“Funds raised will cover essential production costs such as props, costumes, and location fees. Most importantly, contributions will help foster a new era of artistic collaboration and progressive history in Riverside,” said Cantero.
The Witchez Film Co-op is a collaborative group of Riverside area filmmakers dedicated to making films that tell stories to unite people, foster collaboration, and deliver an accessible vision of life and its complexities to the public.
League of Women Voters Vice President and Voter Services Chair Jody Isenberg with Carthen.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.— League of Women Voters Vice President and Voter Services Chair Jody Isenberg will speak to the San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club at its October 25th noon meeting at the Juan Pollo Restaurant, 1258 West 5th Street.
Isenberg served as a research attorney on the local court of appeal and was very active in progressive campaigns for Bernie Sanders and local candidates. She now devotes her time to the League of Women Voters, whose mission it is to inform voters and protect voter rights.
“Jody will be giving an informational talk on the propositions on the November 5th ballot,” says Tim Prince, President of the San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club.
For more information or to speak at the San Bernardino Democratic Luncheon Club, contact them at sbdems.com/?page_id=14.
Established in 1993, the Democratic Luncheon Club of San Bernardino is the most prominent and dynamic Democratic club in the Inland Empire. Our meetings convene most Fridays at Juan Pollo Restaurant, 1258 West 5th St. in San Bernardino, and we extend an open invitation to the public. Each gathering hosts a distinguished speaker who shares compelling news and crucial updates on matters impacting the broader San Bernardino area. Visit our website at sbdems.com for further details.
