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.
Like chairs with hidden cracks, people carry pain that often goes unnoticed. BROKEN is where art and mental health meet, and healing begins. Empower You Edutainment utilizes performing arts to provide engaging theater, dance and music experiences that promote resilience, empowerment and overall wellness among youth and young adults.
RIVERSIDE, Calif.—Like chairs with hidden cracks, people carry pain that often goes unnoticed. “BROKEN is where art and mental health meet, and healing begins,” said Sharron Lewis, president and co-founder of Empower You Edutainment.
Broken is on Sunday, April 27th, at 3 p.m. at the Riverside Civil Rights Institute in the Bank of America Diversity Center, 3933 Mission Inn Avenue, Suite 102, in Riverside. Doors open at 2:30 p.m.
According to Lewis, BROKEN is a unique healing experience that blends music, spoken word, storytelling, and the powerful symbolism of a broken chair to explore how we heal—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
“This event is more than a gathering. It’s a sacred space for release, reflection, and restoration. Just like a cracked chair or a splintered table can be repaired and made whole again—often stronger and more beautiful—so can we,” said Deborah McDuff Williams of The Links Incorporated, San Bernardino Valley (CA) Chapter.
Empower You Edutainment, a non-profit organization promoting health awareness, presents “Broken.” This unique event aims to shed light on the often-unnoticed pain that individuals carry and explore the healing power of art.
“Art has the incredible ability to reveal hidden emotions and provide a therapeutic outlet for those struggling with mental health issues,” said Lewis.
Empower You Edutainment utilizes the performing arts to provide engaging theater, dance and music experiences that promote resilience, empowerment and overall wellness among youth and young adults. Attendees can engage in various artistic activities designed to foster healing and self-expression.
“Through this event, we hope to create a supportive environment where individuals can find solace and understanding. We invite everyone to participate in this transformative experience and join a community that values mental health and artistic expression,” said Lewis.
Guest Artist Deborah McDuff Williams
Guest Artist Deborah McDuff Williams is a multifaceted artist whose work delves into themes of social justice, African heritage and the human experience. In addition to her visual art, Williams incorporates poetry to amplify her healing messages.
BROKEN is sponsored by: Empower You Edutainment, The Links Incorporated, San Bernardino Valley (CA) Chapter, the Civil Rights Institute, Inland Southern California, 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.
From our humble origins, we have enriched the Inland Empire with community theatre that draws attention to pressing social issues and positively impacts the lives of many.
About The Links Incorporated, San Bernardino Valley (CA) Chapter
The Links Incorporated, San Bernardino Valley (CA) Chapter, a not-for-profit corporation, established in 1946. It is one of the nation’s oldest and largest volunteer service organizations committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other people of African ancestry.
As the voice of civil rights for Inland Southern California, the Institute provides public programming and children’s programs focusing on civil rights and the region’s civil rights history. It offers programs, exhibits, and performances that support civil rights activities. The Institute is developing a digital archive of regional civil rights materials and conducts oral history projects, supporting the production of civil rights audio and video through the media center. Additionally, it recognizes the region’s civil rights leaders and their impacts.
Dameron Communications Art Director Thom Salisbury designed the graphic elements for Tea for the Soul, including the logo, social media artwork, and flyer/ad
Dameron Communications Art Director Thom Salsibury created graphic design for BROKEN, including the logo, flyer/ad, and social media art.
BROKEN At The Civil Rights Institute In Riverside
Like chairs with hidden cracks, people carry pain that often goes unnoticed. BROKEN is where art and mental health meet, and healing begins. Empower You Edutainment utilizes performing arts to provide engaging theater, dance, and music experiences that promote resilience, empowerment, and overall wellness among youth and young adults.
RIVERSIDE, Calif.—Like chairs with hidden cracks, people carry pain that often goes unnoticed. “BROKEN is where art and mental health meet, and healing begins,” said Sharron Lewis, president and co-founder of Empower You Edutainment.
Broken is on Sunday, April 27th, at 3 p.m. at the Riverside Civil Rights Institute in the Bank of America Diversity Center, 3933 Mission Inn Avenue, Suite 102, in Riverside. Doors open at 2:30 p.m.
“Jewel Diamond Taylor will share her transformative message from stages around the world, offering strategies for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence,” said Sharron Lewis, the Coalition for Black Health and Wellness Committee chair.
Moreno Valley, CA—The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness announces an African American Tea for the Soul. In this supportive environment, Black women can explore essential practices of self-care, mental health, wellness, and healing. The Tea is Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at CrossWord Church, 21401 Box Springs Road, Moreno Valley, CA. Doors will open at 2:30 PM, and dinner will be served at 3:15 PM.
Sharron Lewis, the Behavioral Health Committee chair, said, “The highlight of the afternoon will be renowned guest speaker Jewel Diamond Taylor, affectionately known as ‘The Self-Esteem Dr.’ Jewel has been a leading motivational speaker since 1984, empowering millions with her holistic approach to faith, culture, psychology, emotional well-being, and personal success.”
As the author of bestselling titles such as Success Gems and ShiFt Happens, Jewel utilizes humor and storytelling to encourage resilience and inner peace among her audience. In addition to receiving an honorary doctorate in divinity in 2019, she also garnered an Emmy Award in 2021 for her work on a documentary about race relations in Norway.
This event is sponsored by the Coalition for Black Health and Wellness, Behavioral Health Committee, Riverside Community Health Foundation, and Dameron Communications in collaboration with CrossWord Church.
Empower You Edutainment provides entertainment for the event. Upon arrival, participants will be welcomed by African drumming. The entertainment also includes spoken word performances, a live band, storytelling, participatory dancing, a theatrical presentation, and dancers.
“Join us for an inspiring afternoon of growth, connection, and empowerment as we support the mental and emotional well-being of Black women in our community. You don’t want to miss Jewel Diamond Taylor, who brings her transformative message from stages across the globe, sharing strategies for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence,” said Lewis.
The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness Behavioral Health Committee members are Sharron Lewis, Chair; Phyllis Clark, Dr. Carolyn Murray, and Shor Denny.
For more information or to become a vendor, text Sharron Lewis at 213-359-8639.
The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness is a voluntary multi-sector group providing leadership, ensuring continued information flow, and galvanizing action. The Coalition addresses health disparities improvement actions for Riverside and Jurupa Valley. To be effective agents of change to eliminate health disparities affecting the Black community and achieve the highest possible level of health through the education and mobilization of leaders, partners, policymakers, and community stakeholders. We strive for a community free of health and healthcare disparities.
Erik Harty and Jon Hwang from LONG/DIVISION earned the coveted Best of Show award in the professional category for their Internet Commercial “Endless Pastabilities” created for Barilla at the 2025 AAF-IE ADDY Awards Gala.
Gold ADDY recipients included Associated Students Inc. at Cal Poly Pomona, California Baptist University, City of Riverside, Compelle, ESRI, Firm Media, Inland Empire Health Plan, LONG/DIVISION, and Temecula Creek Inn.
RIVERSIDE, CA— The Inland Empire Chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) celebrated excellence in advertising at its annual ADDY Awards Gala, which was recently held at the Life Arts Center in Riverside. The prestigious event recognized outstanding creative work from professionals and students throughout the Inland Empire region.
LONG/DIVISION earned the coveted Best of Show award in the professional category for their Internet Commercial “Endless Pastabilities” created for Barilla. Growing Inland Achievement received the Mosaic ADDY Award for their Public Service Online/Interactive Campaign “Higher Endeavor.”
In the student competition, California Baptist University’s Mackenzie Head took home Best of Show honors for the “Doc Martins Campaign” in the Magazine Advertising Campaign category. Noah Witt, also from California Baptist University, was recognized with the Special Judges Award for “Grammy Branding” in the Art Direction category.
“This year’s competition has seen a remarkable resurgence in professional entries, reaching pre-pandemic levels and the highest numbers since 2019. The student competition is also thriving, tying a six-year record for the most participating schools,” said Mark Landon, Inland Empire American Advertising Awards Chair.
The evening featured a reception, plated dinner, and awards presentation celebrating the region’s most creative minds. Professional Gold ADDY recipients included Associated Students Inc. at Cal Poly Pomona, California Baptist University, City of Riverside, Compelle, ESRI, Firm Media, Inland Empire Health Plan, LONG/DIVISION, and Temecula Creek Inn.
Student Gold ADDY awards went to talented individuals from California Baptist University, Platt College, and La Sierra University, highlighting the exceptional creative education programs within the Inland Empire.
Visit the website for a complete list of all professional and student winners, including Silver and Bronze recipients.
About the American Advertising Federation – Inland Empire
The American Advertising Federation – Inland Empire Chapter represents advertising professionals throughout eastern Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, and western Riverside County. The chapter is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well-being of advertising. Once a year, it hosts the Inland Empire Advertising Awards Competition, inviting professionals and students to its creative competition. Learn more about the chapter and upcoming programs, including membership, at https://www.inlandempireaaf.com/.
For more information, contact John McCarthy, President of AAF-Inland Empire club@inlandempireaaf.com, at (909) 263-0454.
