Photo caption: Dameron Communications announced its commitment to supporting KVCR Public Radio—Carl M. Dameron at KVCR Studios with Rick Dulock and Manuel Saucdo.
“KVCR’s in-depth reporting and commitment to education are essential for a thriving Inland Empire, and we are proud to support their vital work,” said Carl M. Dameron, owner of Dameron Communications.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Dameron Communications announced its commitment to supporting KVCR Public Radio, the Inland Empire’s local NPR station broadcasting on 91.9 FM. This commitment underscores Dameron Communications’ dedication to fostering a well-informed and engaged community in the Inland Empire.
KVCR, a public service of the San Bernardino Community College District, is a vital resource for news, information, education, culture, and community engagement in the Inland Empire. Its mission is to build a better region through diverse local media that inspires and entertains in the community and the classroom.
“KVCR’s in-depth reporting and commitment to education are essential for a thriving Inland Empire, and we are proud to support their vital work,” said Carl M. Dameron, owner of Dameron Communications.
KVCR is the primary affiliate for National Public Radio, Public Radio International, and American Public Media in the Riverside/San Bernardino market. Supporting KVCR helps ensure continued access to high-quality news and diverse programming, from in-depth local reporting to cultural and educational content.
This partnership aligns with KVCR’s vision to create a trusted destination that facilitates conversations for an engaged citizenry and builds a better future through community participation.
About KVCR
KVCR 91.9 FM is an NPR member radio station serving Inland Southern California. The station is owned and operated by the San Bernardino Community College District and is dedicated to serving as the cultural, educational, informational, and communication hub of the Inland Empire. KVCR’s programming emphasizes educational programs, thought-provoking content, objective journalism, and engagement in the arts, media, and sciences.
About Dameron Communications
Dameron Communications is a full-service communications agency that combines unsurpassed relationships with proven advertising and public relations methods. The agency’s experienced professionals are dedicated to delivering winning and measurable results for its clients.
Photo Caption: Naomi Kuhlman talks with a homeless woman about her options for assistance. She and her spouse were camped out in Redlands Sylvan Park.
“Our trained outreach teams go to where the homeless people are and engage them in personal conversations to discover and deal with the reasons they are unhoused,” said Naomi Kuhlman, Program Manager.
REDLANDS, Calif.—The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps deploys two specialized vans, each with a two- to three-person team, that are deployed throughout the greater San Bernardino/Redlands service area to engage with and locate unhoused individuals where they can be found. These teams also receive referrals from local areas and are sent out to provide assistance. Two teams in Redlands and three in San Bernardino are changing lives for the better.
The attractively painted Salvation Army vans are welcomed wherever they go, as the word is spreading that the people inside can provide genuine assistance. “Our trained outreach teams go to where the homeless people are and engage them by providing basic necessities such as water or food and have conversations to discover and deal with the reasons they are unhoused,” said Naomi Kuhlman, Salvation Army of San Bernardino’s Director of Programs.
Since 2020, thanks to a $1,059,712 grant to get the program started and additional funding and support from several city and county agencies, as well as private and public organizations and nonprofits, The Salvation Army has been able to help many people reunite with their families, resolve their homelessness, get stable housing and start on the path to independent living.
Photo Caption: “Our trained ‘Street Teams’ outreach teams go to where the homeless people are and engage them in person by providing basic necessities such as water or food and have conversations to discover and deal with the reasons they are unhoused,” said Naomi Kuhlman, Salvation Army Street Team and Homeless Shelter Program of San Bernardino’s Director of Programs.
“This is a broad-based effort that combines Salvation Army program services from across the local 13-city service area,” said Kuhlman. “We reach out and contact unhoused people wherever they may be, and we spend time to get to know them and their individual concerns and needs. We take an individualized case-management approach. Sometimes, it’s a Department of Motor Vehicles Identification Voucher, a phone call, or a text; other times, it might involve advocating for behavioral health services or assisting with placement in permanent housing. We get done what needs to be done and help connect the dots so that those we serve don’t fall through the cracks.”
The Salvation Army’s partners and collaborators in the program include the City’s of San Bernardino and Redlands, the County of San Bernardino, the San Bernardino and Redlands Police Departments, the County of San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department and Probation Department, Department of Veterans Affairs, local water districts, and various nonprofits such as Healthcare in Action and Goodwill.
“There are many reasons why people may be homeless and a variety of circumstances that may get in the way of providing shelter for someone,” says Kuhlman.
PHOTO CAPTION: A Salvation Army “Hope on Wheels” helps a couple who are living in their Van parked in Redlands Sylvan Park.
“Whether it’s a phone call that results in reuniting someone with family they have been estranged from or getting someone’s service dog veterinary care and current shots so they can bring their support animal with them to a shelter, we do what it takes to make help happen. You can understand why we call this work that we get to do providing ‘Hope on Wheels,’” says Kuhlman.
Help can range from something as simple as providing a bottle of water or a snack, to enrolling in a vocational training program, receiving behavioral health services, assistance with preparing a résumé, or any other items deemed necessary to aid in focusing on Individual Service Plans.
According to Kuhlman, the concept that drives the Outreach Teams’ effort is providing individualized options for care and support.
In 2024, The Salvation Army served 28,201 People in 25,022 households, provided 113,400 meals, and distributed groceries to 10,801 households. The Hospitality House provided 35,871nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness. A total of 3,513 children participated in educational and recreational programs. 171householdswere rapidly rehoused through various deposit and rental assistance programs.
he Salvation Army welcomes donations of food, clothing, toys, and money, which can be dropped off at 925 W. 10th Street, San Bernardino, or at the Citadel office at 838 Alta Street, in Redlands. Donations can also be made online at SBCSVA.org.
For more information or help, call The Salvation Army at (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is one of the largest charitable and service organizations in the world, having served San Bernardinosince 1888 and supported those in need.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals without discrimination. They serve 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.
Carl M. Dameron with friends at last year’s Golf Tournament
Celebrity Golf Classic Raises Funds for Youth Education and Business Development
SAN DIMAS, CA — The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with Youth Power Community Solutions, is hosting the 29th Annual Celebrity Golf Classic on Monday, June 16, 2025. The event will take place at the Via Verde Country Club, located at 1400 Avenida Entrada in San Dimas.
“This fundraiser event brings together business leaders, celebrities, and community champions for a day of golf, networking, and purpose—all to support programs that empower youth and promote small business development across Southern California,” said Rich Wallace, President of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce.
Tee Off for a Cause Details:
· Check-In: 7:00 AM
· Tee Time: 8:00 AM Shotgun Start
· Location: Via Verde Country Club, San Dimas, CA
· Dinner & Awards: Following tournament play
Participants can look forward to celebrity guests, contests, and entertainment throughout the day, along with an awards dinner and networking opportunities with professionals and entrepreneurs. Sponsorships and foursomes are currently available for those interested in supporting the cause.
Rialto Residents enjoy custom artwork and the publication “The ABC’s of A Black Man’s Principles” by Juneteenth Jam Art Exhibit Curator, Mark Anothony Howard, “The Gritz” 2024
Rialto, CA – Rialto’s Juneteenth Jam is back for 2025. The event celebrates the national holiday of Juneteenth. Last year, more than 5,000 community members attended, and 100+ local organizations participated. The free public celebration honoring freedom, unity, and Black culture will occur on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 4 PM to 9 PM at Ferguson Park in Rialto, California.
According to the United States Capitol Historical Society, recognizing Juneteenth as a federal holiday also allows Americans to contemplate the complicated processes of emancipation after President Abraham Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862.
Specifically, Juneteenth marks the day (June 19, 1865) when a Union Army general, Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, and demanded that the state’s more than 250,000 enslaved people be set free.
On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed, with Members of Congress, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act at the White House.
“The Juneteenth Jamis supported by local community organizations including Tomorrow’s World, the National Council of Negro Women, the Mayor Deborah Robertson Foundation, KICKit World, Inland Empire Pastors, local Divine nine chapters, Say Go EJ, Dameron Communications, and others,” said Juneteenth Jam Founder Vickie Davis. “Together, these organizations are bringing the community together for a day of joy, empowerment, and connection.”
Live Entertainment & Activities: Basketball, skating, flag football, wellness circles, pickleball, and more.
Vendor Marketplace: Local food, clothing, jewelry, and artisan vendors.
Classic Car Display: Showcasing vintage and custom vehicles.
Family-Friendly Fun: Games, music, and community bonding.
Rialto’s former Mayor Deborah Robertson honored by the Rialto Fire Department Juneteenth Jam 2023
Juneteenth Jam strengthens the village mentality within our community by creating a space where residents, business owners, nonprofit organizations, and leaders from all sectors, at every level, come together. We unite to foster a deeper understanding of humanity and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to our community,” said Davis.
Davis invites businesses and organizations to sponsor the event. “Contributions will help ensure the Juneteenth Jam remains free and accessible. Join us for a day of celebration, unity, and community pride!”
Boys and girls learned how to make their own preserves to top the scones that were served with tea. Left to right: Ariana Alvarada, Naiomy Zepeda and Emilin Zepeda. Photo by Chris Sloan
“This year’s American Girl Tea Party will delight everyone from toddlers to grandparents,” says San Bernardino City Library Foundation Board president Cheryl Brown.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA. — Toddlers, teens, parents, and grandparents are all invited to attendthis year’sAmerican Girl Tea Partyon Saturday, June 14, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm atthe Dr. Mildred Dalton Henry Elementary School, which is hosting an American Girl Tea Party sponsored by the San Bernardino City Library Foundation.
Board president and former California Assemblymember Cheryl Brown began organizing the event on behalf of the Foundation five years ago. Cheryl, Board member Debra Fields, and a team of supporters brought together families for the event. “This year’s American Girl tea party will delight toddlers to grandparents,” said Brown.
American Girl dolls are teen favorites, but very expensive to buy. So, Brown brought the idea to the library foundation board that these dolls, along with the life story books accompanying them, be made available for checkout at the downtown library. The board approved her initiative, and the library now has many dolls that youngsters can borrow.
Bernardino City Unified School District Superintendent Maurice Arellano, school Principal Dr. Chris Tickell, library foundation President Mary Kay DeCrescenzo, library Executive Director Ed Erjavec, Denneigh Denton and Lynn Summers from the University of California Master Gardeners and Master Food Preservers, and student volunteers from Arroyo Valley High School combined forces to support the event.
R.. Tickell has made this his signature event and hosts it annually. This is the third year that the teahas beens held at the school.
American Girl dolls and books were raffled off to children who attended the tea party. Photo by Chris Sloan
The Master Gardeners and Preservers will provide educational content as the attendees learn about growing microgreens and taking home a container of seeds to grow.
Participants included girls and boys, old and young, as the event showcaseds educational content meant for everyone, not just young ladies. Entertainment included an engaging storyteller, tabletop craft games, and more.
There will be several door prizes. “Last year, many of the children went home with a gift,” said Brown. “We gave away nine large dolls, six mini dolls, and several sticker books.”
For more information, call (909) 381-8201 or go toEventbriteand look for American Girl Tea Party, or click herehttps://bit.ly/4iEGKDu
Tea party table-top crafts were a family affair. Left to right: Everhrda Gomez, Valentin Gomez and Maria Gomez. Photo by Chris Sloan
About the San Bernardino City Library Foundation
The San Bernardino City Library Foundation’s mission is to ensure that our public libraries continue to be places where everyone in the community can gather, learn, grow, and interact.
Since 1995, the San Bernardino City Library Foundation has provided the San Bernardino Public Library system with the financial support it needs to provide new books for patrons, offer free tutoring for all academic levels, provide patrons with access to e-books and audiobooks, and provide innovative programs like a Makerspace and the American Girl Doll program.
Photo caption: The Salvation Army team sets up a new 10,000-square-foot retail space in Chino, offering an accessible shopping and donation experience in one of the city’s busiest commercial corridors. The address is 5250 E. Philadelphia St., Suite M, Chino, CA 91710. Doors open at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
“Each donation and each purchase help The Salvation Army do more than fund ARC recovery programs—they inspire possibility,” said Major Donald Sheppard, Administrator for Development at The Salvation Army San Bernardino ARC
Chino, CA – The Salvation Army announces the grand opening of a new Chino Thrift Store at 5250 E. Philadelphia St., Suite M, Chino, CA 91710. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025. “The expansive 10,000-square-foot retail space will offer an accessibleshopping and donation experience in one of Chino’s busiest commercial corridors,” said Major Donald Sheppard, Administrator for Development at The Salvation Army San Bernardino ARC.
According to Sheppard, the Chino location will employ 16 team members. This is one of six retail locations, including five thrift stores and one thrift outlet, supporting the life-changing work of The Salvation Army San Bernardino Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC).
The ARC’s 122-bed residential program provides housing, counseling, and work therapy to men seeking recovery and a fresh start. Established in 1991, the San Bernardino ARC has served the Inland Empire community for 34 years.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Chino community into this new space where every item purchased or donated contributes to restoring lives,” said Sheppard. “This store is more than just a place to shop—it’s a hub for hope and transformation.”
Photo Caption: “Treasure hunters, budget-conscious families, and sustainability-minded shoppers alike will find something special on every visit,” said Sheppard
The new thrift store will offer a variety of gently used clothing, accessories, furniture, home goods, and more—all at affordable prices. “Treasure hunters, budget-conscious families, and sustainability-minded shoppers alike will find something special on every visit,” said Sheppard.
To celebrate opening day, customers can enter to win a $100 gift certificate and enjoy surprise prize giveaways throughout the day.
In addition to providing great deals, the Chino Thrift Store aims to strengthen its ties with the community by working with local creatives, sustainability advocates, and social influencers to highlight eco-conscious shopping and innovative upcycling ideas.
“Each donation and each purchase helps The Salvation Army do more than fund ARC programs—they inspire possibility. Together, we’re turning secondhand into second chances.
Come celebrate the grand opening with us—discover unique finds, support your community, and be part of the mission to transform lives through the restoration of mind, body, and soul,” said Sheppard.
San Bernardino County Salvation Army Thrift stores are in Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, Fontana, Victorville, Hesperia, and now Chino.
Photo caption: The new signs are not up yet, and work inside is getting done. The address is 5250 E. Philadelphia St., Suite M, Chino, CA 91710. Doors open at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025.
The Salvation Army operates the largest and most successful network of Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs) in the nation. For over 100 years, The Salvation Army has provided spiritual, emotional, and social assistance to individuals who have struggled to cope with life’s challenges. The Salvation Army’s 80+ ARCs are primarily funded by the sale of donated goods in thrift stores. Each year, thousands of ARC graduates transform their lives, reunite with families, and bring hope to communities across the country. Services are offered on a charitable basis, generally at no cost, and without the need for insurance. For more information, visit WesternARC.SalvationArmy.org.
Max Ramirez, Senior Director of Content Marketing at Skyline Studio
Riverside, CA. — The American Advertising Federation—Inland Empire Chapter invites you to a brand storytelling class.This class is for anyone looking to elevate their brand’s connection with customers through the art of storytelling.
The virtual event, “Unlocking the Power of Storytelling at Scale,” will occur on April 30th from noon to 1 pm. Learn More and Register Now!
In today’s crowded marketplace, authentic storytelling isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for building lasting customer relationships and brand loyalty. Join us to learn how to craft compelling narratives that resonate with your audience and leverage trusted media platforms to amplify your message.
Featured Speaker: Max Ramirez
Max leads the studio division for Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune, managing a team of strategists, content creators, event producers, and designers. With extensive experience at Warner Bros. Discovery, NBCUniversal, iHeartMedia, and various digital media startups, Max brings valuable insights into developing innovative, integrated media campaigns that truly engage audiences.
What You’ll Learn:
How to Build Trust and Credibility with Your Customers
Storytelling Best Practices and Pitfalls to Avoid
Strategies to Elevate Your Story for Broader Impact
The webinar is free for AAF members and just $10 for non-members, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes to learn about the power of storytelling to promote your brand.
To learn more or register for the webinar, visit InlandEmpireAAF.com. If you have questions about the event, contact John McCarthy at (909) 263-0454.
About the Inland Empire AAF:
The Inland Empire AAF is a community of advertising and graphic design professionals representing local, regional, and national companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The organization provides educational opportunities through guest speakers and hosts the local American Advertising Awards, the industry’s largest and most representative competition in the United States. Founded in the late 1980s, the Inland Empire AAF is dedicated to promoting excellence in advertising and fostering connections within the industry. Learn more at InlandEmpireAAF.com.
The evening’s highest honor was awarded to Grand Terrace High School senior Jaden Overstreet. Beautillion Chairperson, Tina Darling, 2025 Sir Knight, Jaden Overstreet, and Elsie Paulino, Social Lites, Inc., Vice President.
“Since its inception, the Beautillion program has prepared nearly 1,000 young men for success in higher education, awarding over $2.5 million in scholarships and awards dedicated to supporting their first year of college,” said Lewis.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA — The Social Lites, Inc. marked a significant milestone as they hosted the 58th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program at California State University, San Bernardino. The “Mastering Your Destiny Defines Your Success” event celebrated academic achievement, leadership, and community service among high school senior young men.
“The evening’s highest honor was awarded to Jaden Overstreet, a Grand Terrace High School senior who was crowned the 2025 Beautillion Sir Knight. In addition to receiving over $11,000 in scholarships and awards, Overstreet was also recognized by his peers with the title of Mr. Congeniality. He plans to pursue a degree in Graphic Design at a local university this fall,” said The Social Lites, Inc.’s President Sheri Lewis.
Raafi Bell—Principal of Hardy Brown College Prep and a 2004 Beautillion Sir Knight served as Master of Ceremonies. He traced the history of the Beautillion, connecting past themes to this year’s focus on self-mastery and success.
Dr. Akalana Osonduagwuike, a distinguished educator, administrator, and mentor whose career spans the Rialto Unified and Moreno Valley Unified School Districts, delivered the keynote address. Dr. Osonduagwuike, recognized for his unwavering commitment to empowering underrepresented youth, emphasized perseverance, leadership, and compassion in his remarks.
The program also featured a special performance choreographed by Beautillion alumnus Russell Ward (Alumni 1984), whose dynamic routine inspired the audience to celebrate with standing ovations and joyful participation.
59th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program participants were: Brandon McIntosh,Jr., Joseph Goree, Jr., and Jaden Overstreet
Other distinguished award recipients included:
Joseph Goree, Jr., who earned more than $7,000 in scholarships and awards.
Brandon McIntosh, Jr. received over $6,000 in support for his higher education endeavors.
Lewis explained that, “Each young man was further honored with Resolutions and Proclamations from local and state dignitaries, including California State Assembly Member Joe Baca, U.S. Representative Pete Aguilar, Rialto Mayor Joe Baca, Sr., San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran, San Jacinto Mayor Alonso Ledezma, and Grand Terrace Mayor Bill Hussey, and Gold Sponsorship from Assembly Member, James Ramos.”
Additionally, the Social Lites, Inc. presented the distinguished Trail Blazer Award to:
Mr. Danny Tillman, Trustee, San Bernardino City Unified School District Board.
Dr. Gwendolyn Dowdy Rodgers, Trustee, San Bernardino County Board of Education.
As the organization concludes its 58th season, preparations are underway for the 59th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program, set to commence on October 19, 2025, and conclude at California State University, San Bernardino on March 28, 2026.
“Since its inception, the Beautillion program has prepared nearly 1,000 young men for success in higher education, awarding over $2.5 million in scholarships and awards dedicated to supporting their first year of college,” said Lewis.
High school senior young men interested in participating in the upcoming Beautillion season should contact the Social Lites, Inc. for more information:
Sheri Lewis, President – (909) 320-0799
Elsie Paulino, Vice President – (951) 205-8823
Marlene Davis, Community Outreach – (909) 709-5502
Brandon McIntosh,Jr., Joseph Goree, Jr., and Jaden Overstreet
About Social Lites, Inc.
Social Lites, Inc., based in the Inland Empire, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the educational and professional aspirations of young men through scholarship programs, leadership training, and community engagement.
New Original Musical ‘Freedom: A Juneteenth Story’ Seeks Actors
“This powerful narrative compels audiences to reconsider the celebration of Juneteenth, urging reflection on the journey filled with pain, strength, and unwavering determination of the men and women who forged the path to freedom.”
FONTANA, CA – Empower You Edutainment is seeking actors for their new musical, Freedom: A Juneteenth Story. Through a dynamic blend of music, dance, and storytelling, “Freedom: A Juneteenth Story” pays tribute to the struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices of those who fought valiantly for freedom from slavery, justice, and equality. Their voices resonate throughout history, reminding us that the liberation struggle is far from complete.
With a vibrant score infused with gospel, blues, and spoken word, “Freedom: A Juneteenth Story” serves as both a celebration and a poignant call to reflection. It inspires audiences to honor the legacies of the past while committing to the vital work of achieving justice and equity for future generations.
“This powerful narrative compels audiences to reconsider the celebration of Juneteenth, urging reflection on the journey filled with pain, strength, and unwavering determination of the men and women who forged the path to freedom,” said Empower You Edutainment President Sharron Lewis.
Empower You Edutainment President Sharron Lewis.
“Our goal is to involve as many passionate people as possible in our mission to use art and performance to inspire, uplift, and create positive change. Interested individuals are encouraged to share their contact information with us to connect for future opportunities,” said Lewis.
Lewis asks all actors ready to commit to the performances to audition for a role. For more information, contact Sharron Lewis at (213) 359-8639 or email her at SharronLewisCampbell@gmail.com.
“Freedom: A Juneteenth Story” premieres at 7:00 pm on June 20th at the Steel Workers Auditorium in Fontana. Reserve your tickets at Eventbrite. Look for An Original Musical- Freedom: A Juneteenth Story.
Sponsored by Empower You Edutainment, New Life Church, the City of Fontana, and Dameron Communications.
Empower You Edutainment is a non-profit organization founded in 2016. The dedicated team of talented educators and skilled artists leverages their rich background in the performing arts to deliver engaging theatre, dance, and music experiences that foster resilience, empowerment, and overall wellness among youth and young adults.
Our mission is clear: We strive to dismantle social and economic barriers, providing empowerment, education, and transformation to the often voiceless. We aim to inspire and uplift through the powerful mediums of song, interpretive dance, spoken word, music, improvisation, and theater.
