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    Posts Tagged ‘Inland empire’

    The Salvation Army Helps Homeless Families Get Back in Control of Their Lives

    Kulman says, “Our residents don’t just sit around and spin their wheels. They actively work on their case plan. Our case managers are good at finding each individual’s motivation to resolve their homelessness and get back on their feet.”

    (San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Salvation Army Hospitality House is ready to provide temporary, stable shelter to homeless families and single women. Their target population also includes multi-generational families and single men with children as well.

    “The Salvation Army Hospitality House serves as a safe refuge that provides residents with a supportive, caring environment and all the resources they need to deal with a wide variety of personal and/or family problems. It all starts with an emergency shelter that can keep participants safely housed for 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on their circumstances,” says Program Manager Naomi Kulman.

    At intake, each new arrival is assessed by trained staff from The Salvation Army. Once the scope of a client’s needs has been determined, each family is provided with a detailed, individualized case plan and assigned to a case manager who will maintain close contact throughout their entire stay.

    Each family’s case plan includes comprehensive goals and objectives that cover their intake, transition to permanent housing, help in finding a steady job, legal advocacy, child welfare aid, and education. Every resident is treated as an individual with unique needs, and every case is different, receiving a customized case plan.
    Homeless Family with six children reunited at The Salvation Army Hospitality House (Carl M. Dameron)

    Homeless Family with six children reunited at The Salvation Army Hospitality House (Carl M. Dameron)

    “People who come to Hospitality House may have been sleeping in their cars or have been recently released from a hospital. At the intake interview, each new resident gets clothing, bed linens, hygiene products, and a chance to take a breath after whatever ordeal they have just gone through,” says Kulman.

    “I didn’t know what I was going to do,” says one recent Hospitality House graduate.

    “I’m a single mom, and I lost my job. Thank goodness, at least my 15-year-old car was paid off, and when we were no longer able to pay rent, that’s where we slept. I heard about Hospitality House from a friend, and the people there have helped me find a new job, secure a place to live, and even got me enrolled in a course that’s going to add to my skill set so I can advance in my newfound career.”

    Kulman says, “Our residents don’t just sit around and spin their wheels. They actively work on their case plan. Our case managers are good at finding each individual’s motivation to resolve their homelessness and get back on their feet.”

    “Sometimes, that may include a referral to one of our partner agencies for things like mental health services, substance use, and legal aid. Whatever they need, we can either provide help in-house or get them connected to the right providers,” says Kulman.

    As current resident K.L. notes, “I had a pretty bad rent history and I knew not many landlords would want to take a chance on me, even though I now have a decent job. But the Salvation Army has helped me reestablish a better tenant history, and now I have a place lined up to move to when my stay here ends next week.”

    To speak with a Hospitality House representative, call (909) 888-4880 or visit the website at SBCSVA.com.

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
    The Salvation Army is one of the largest charitable and service organizations in the world, serving San Bernardino since 1888, and supports 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.

    Photo caption: Dameron Communications announced its commitment to supporting KVCR Public Radio. Carl M. Dameron at KVCR Studios with Rick Dulock and Manuel Saucdo.

    Dameron Communications Announces Support for KVCR, the IE’s Public Radio Station

    Photo caption: Dameron Communications announced its commitment to supporting KVCR Public Radio. Carl M. Dameron at KVCR Studios with Rick Dulock and Manuel Saucdo.

    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.

    Watch YouTube Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/zUgZ2yYP4vA

    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.

    Salvation Army’s “Hope on Wheels” Delivers Help for the Homeless

    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.

    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.

    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.

    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 35,871 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness. A total of 3,513 children participated in educational and recreational programs.  171households were 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 Bernardino since 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.

    Rialto’s Juneteenth Jam is Back for 2025

    Rialto’s Juneteenth Jam is Back for 2025

    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.

    Rialto’s Juneteenth Jam is Back for 2025

    On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed, with Members of Congress, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act at the White House.

    “The Juneteenth Jam is 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.”

    Juneteenth Jam Highlights Include:

    • 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 Juneteenth Jam is Back for 2025

    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!”

    Watch a video from last year’s Juneteenth Jam

    https://www.strongertogethernow.online/uploads/b/146846607-306738867422430622/juneteenth_882.mp4

    For free tickets, go to:  https://rialtojuneteenthjam2025.eventbrite.com.

    For more information, contact Vickie Davis at BlackOnTheBlock.MissD@gmail.com or call 951.255.7382.

    Transform Your Brand Through the Art of Storytelling

    Transform Your Brand Through the Art of Storytelling

    Transform Your Brand Through the Art of Storytelling

    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 pmLearn 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.

    Where Dreams Meet Distinction: Social Lites, Inc. Beautillion Honors Scholarship Recipients

    Where Dreams Meet Distinction: Social Lites, Inc. Beautillion Honors Scholarship Recipients

    Where Dreams Meet Distinction: Social Lites, Inc. Beautillion Honors Scholarship Recipients

    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.

    Where Dreams Meet Distinction: Social Lites, Inc. Beautillion Honors Scholarship Recipients

    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
    Where Dreams Meet Distinction: Social Lites, Inc. Beautillion Honors Scholarship Recipients

    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.

     

    Tea for the Soul: Empowering Black Women in Self-Care and Wellness

    "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.

    “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.

    Space is limited for this sponsored opportunity, so we encourage everyone to save their spot at https://bit.ly/tea4thesoul25?r=qr.

    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.

    About The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness

    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.

    IE-AAF 2025 Addy Award Winners

    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.

    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.

    Vickie Davis Joins Dameron Communications as a Social Media Expert

    Joining Dameron Communications allows me to merge my expertise with my commitment to uplifting our community, ' said Vickie Davis.

    “Joining Dameron Communications allows me to merge my expertise with my commitment to uplifting our community,” said Vickie Davis.

    San Bernardino, CA—Dameron Communications announced the addition of Vickie Davis, L.M.F.T., M.A., M.A.C., to its team as a Social Media Expert.

    “Joining Dameron Communications allows me to merge my expertise with my commitment to uplifting our community. Being part of a team that values community engagement and strategic advocacy is a privilege. I am grateful for this incredible opportunity to amplify meaningful causes and create lasting impact.”

    Davis brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and social impact to her new role. As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, she has dedicated her career to uplifting historically disadvantaged communities through mental health advocacy, youth empowerment, and community-based initiatives.

    Davis also serves as a Clinical Supervisor at Victor Community Support Services, where she oversees fiscal contracts, leads the Student Assistance Program, and implements mental health outreach in local communities and schools.

    Beyond her clinical work, Davis is a passionate community organizer. She co-founded “Black on the Block,” now known as Rialto City Jam, and initiated the Juneteenth Jam in Rialto—both events celebrate heritage and support small businesses. She also spearheads an annual I.E. Tour of Toys, delivering joy to underserved families across the Inland Empire.

    “Davis’s expertise in community engagement, combined with her deep understanding of social issues, will be invaluable to Dameron Communications as the agency continues to expand its social media offerings and help clients connect with their target audiences in meaningful ways,” said Carl M. Dameron, president of Dameron Communications.

    Dameron Communications is a diverse team of communications professionals founded in 1988. The agency offers a wide range of public relations, advertising, media research, community relations, and government relations services. Dameron Communications has a proven track record of success, and its work has won numerous awards and client accolades.

    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.

    Elevate Your Advertising Skills: Share Insights With Local Advertising Pros

    “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.

    “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.

    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.

    To save your spot or for more information, go to InlandEmpireAAF.com.

    About the AAF-IE

    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