Hong N. Nguyen will receive the Exceptional Service Civic Award from the San Bernardino Area Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Kickoff on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. Tickets can be purchased at bit.ly/4med2qT.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA — The Salvation Army is proud to announce Hong N. Nguyen as the recipient of the Exceptional Service Civic Award by the San Bernardino Area Citadel. Recognized for outstanding service and dedication to community development, Nguyen has contributed significantly to strengthening the organization’s financial integrity and community outreach.
Nguyen will be formally recognized at The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Kickoff on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, at the Bear Springs Hotel Event Center in Highland. Tickets are available at bit.ly/4med2qT.
Nguyen, the Chief Financial Officer at California International Bank, N.A., has been a valued advisory board member since 2015. Over the years, Nguyen has provided vital financial analysis, supported grant proposals, and offered strategic advice to strengthen Citadel’s financial stability.
In addition to her advisory role, Nguyen actively promotes The Salvation Army’s mission, collaborating with community and financial sector partners to foster donations and partnerships that aid those in need.
Her commitment extends beyond the organization, as she has also worked with the University of California, Riverside School of Business Dean’s Advisory Council to support students’ education and establish valuable connections with business organizations.
“We are grateful for Hong N. Nguyen’s unwavering dedication and exemplary service,” said Major Adam Morales, San Bernardino Citadel commander. “Her efforts significantly contribute to our mission of helping people in need and strengthening our community ties.”
The Salvation Army continues to appreciate community leaders like Nguyen, whose civic involvement and commitment to service help advance its mission and impact,” said Advisor Board Chair Cindy Amrine.
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. 3,513 children participated in educational and recreational programs. 171 households were rapidly rehoused through various deposit and rental assistance programs.
The Salvation Army welcomes donations of food, clothing, toys, and money, which can be dropped off at The Hospitality House, located at 925 W. 10th Street, San Bernardino, or at the Citadel office, 838 Alta Street, in Redlands. Donations can also be made online at SBCSVA.org.
If you are Hungry, Homeless, or Hopeless, The Salvation Army can help. Call (909) 792-6868
The Salvation Army is one of the largest charitable and service organizations worldwide, having served San Bernardino since 1888 and supported those in need. 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.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals without discrimination.
Photo caption: A postcard of the Carnegie Library in San Bernardino. (From the collection of Nick Cataldo)
SAN BERNARDINO, CA — The City of San Bernardino’s Norman F. Feldheym Central Library, a beacon of knowledge and community connection for four decades, will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a special event on Monday, September 29, 2025. The free “40 Years of Feldheym” celebration is scheduled from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the library, located at 555 W. 6th St., and is open to the entire community.
“The event will not only honor the building’s four decades of service, which began when it opened on September 30, 1985, but also the San Bernardino library system’s impressive 140-plus-year legacy. A wide variety of free and fun activities are planned for the occasion,” said the San Bernardino City Library Foundation Board President, the honorable Cheryl Brown.
Event highlights include:
A special magic performance by Joe Wonderment.
Live music from the San Bernardino Symphony Youth Orchestra.
A “sneak peek” of the upcoming Garner Holt Animaker Space, a new hands-on educational resource being developed in partnership with animatronics industry leader Garner Holt Productions.
The issuance of a new, limited-edition 40th anniversary library card is available to both new and current cardholders.
Food for purchase from local vendors, Dawgs for Dogs, and Mi Linda Morenita Michoacana.
Historical displays chronicling the long and rich history of the San Bernardino Public Library.
“We invite the entire community to join us in celebrating this important milestone,” said Ed Erjavek, the library’s director. “This celebration honors four decades of service to generations of residents while showcasing how the library continues to evolve with its programming each year.”
The event is generously sponsored by Thinkwise Credit Union and the San Bernardino City Library Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the library beyond its usual funding.
The 64,000-square-foot Norman F. Feldheym Central Library was named in honor of the late Rabbi Norman F. Feldheym, a decorated veteran and prominent board member who championed the library for many years. Designed by architects Gregory Villanueva and Oscar Arnoni, the building opened on September 30, 1985.
The modern structure replaced the former Arrowhead Central Library. It featured a host of new amenities, including a 200-seat lecture hall, an art gallery, meeting rooms, a children’s Storytime theater, and a microcomputer lab. Each of these special spaces was named to honor community leaders and library benefactors.
The Feldheym Library represents the latest chapter in the city’s long history of libraries, which began in 1881. From its humble beginnings as a citizen-led association to the establishment of the first free public library in 1891, the system evolved into a Carnegie-funded library in the early 1900s, before a larger main library was built in 1960. After it outgrew its space, the city embarked on the path to build the modern facility we know today.
For more information on the anniversary event or library programs, please call (909) 998-4251 or visit the official San Bernardino Public Library website.
“The event will not only honor the building’s four decades of service, which began when it opened on September 30, 1985, but also the San Bernardino library system’s impressive 140-plus-year legacy. A wide variety of free and fun activities are planned for the occasion,” said the San Bernardino City Library Foundation Board President, the honorable Cheryl Brown.
About the San Bernardino City Library Foundation
The San Bernardino City Library Foundation’s mission is to ensure that our public libraries remain 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.
Majors Adam and Christine Morales want you to be a Salvation Army Bell Ringer this Christmas Season to help the hungry, homeless, and hopeless in our community. Volunteer to ring the silver bells for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign at RegisterToRing.com.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — Major Adam and Christine Morales invite you to volunteer to ring the silver bells for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign at RegisterToRing.com. The platform helps volunteers find the ideal time and place to help the hungry, homeless, and hopeless in our county.
“Register to Ring will help you find the perfect time and place to ring bells. If you have any questions or want to learn more, visit the site,” Major Adam Morales, San Bernardino Citadel commander said. “Otherwise, get started by selecting one of the three options below.”
Options include volunteering as an individual, possibly with friends or family, or leading or joining a group that rings at multiple times or locations—such as churches, businesses, schools, service clubs, or other organizations. Volunteers can also encourage friends and family to donate via online fundraisers supporting the local Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign.
“We invite community members and organizations to help us raise money to assist the hungry, homeless, and hopeless,” said Major Morales. “This is the Christmas season for our organization, which provides food, toys, hot meals, shelter, and more throughout the region.”
The Salvation Army encourages local colleges, universities, social and service clubs, elected officials, performers, and companies to ring bells at retail locations. Many are signing up now.
Captain Joseph McFee of the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps started the Red Kettle donations in 1891. Major Adam and Christine Morales invite you to volunteer to ring the silver bells for The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign at RegisterToRing.com.
The tradition of Salvation Army kettles during Christmas started in 1891 in San Francisco, founded by Captain Joseph McFee to fund holiday meals for people experiencing poverty. The tradition has since spread worldwide and has been part of San Bernardino’s holiday season since its early years.
Funds raised during the campaign help provide food baskets, toys, and other essentials during Christmas. Donations also support year-round emergency services, including food assistance, shelter, clothing, furniture, children’s programs, rent and mortgage aid, and transportation assistance.
“Every year, The Salvation Army can deliver toys, bicycles, dolls, and more to needy children in our community. Zehara Perry and Katrina Daniel hold a bicycle and a helmet for a needy child,” said Major Morales.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs.
“We always need food donations,” said Major Christine Morales. “We serve about 300 meals daily at our homeless shelter, transitional living center, and related programs, and our holiday meals have been a tradition since 1888.”
The Salvation Army welcomes donations of food, clothing, toys, and money. These can be dropped off at the Hospitality House located 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.
The Salvation Army, established in San Bernardino in 1888, is one of the world’s largest charitable organizations, supporting those in need without discrimination. As an evangelical Christian church, it offers holistic programs to individuals across multiple communities, including Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, Yucaipa, Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.
Most people know that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, but did you know that 1 in 726 men will also be diagnosed? Breast cancer does NOT discriminate, and neither does The CARE Project, “said Founder Carrie Madrid.
In 2012, 41-year-old Carrie Madrid was diagnosed with Stage III Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma breast cancer. After mastectomy, chemo, radiation, and surgery, she founded The CARE Project, Inc. in 2013 to support breast cancer patients financially and emotionally.
RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The CARE Project, Inc. hosts its annual Casino Night with Care to celebrate breast cancer survivors at the Riverside Marriott Hotel on Saturday, September 20, at 5 PM. The gala will celebrate 2025 Excellence Honorees: Detective Brian Money, Hospice Nurse and best-selling author Julie McFadden, and Leimamo Taylor, owner of Riverside Airport Cafe.
“Come celebrate life and meet the survivors and thrivers TCP serves.” Ticket sales end 9/15 and can be purchased by visiting https://givebutter.com/tcpcasinonight
Tickets for Casino Night with CARE are $100 per person and include appetizers, dinner, and the Excellence Awards presentation, a silent auction, and $200 in CARE Cash for casino play. A cash bar will also be available. Street parking is available, as well as a discounted rate of $15 for the Marriott parking garage.
Carrie Madrid began non-profit The CARE Project Inc., two years after her own Stage III breast cancer diagnosis. As she survived the ordeal and met other breast cancer patients, Madrid realized that there was a great need for a local organization to provide emotional AND financial Support to both male and female breast cancer patients undergoing and recovering from treatment.
“While undergoing treatment and not working full time, we realize that everyday necessities become luxuries. We do our best to help with those very needs”, said Madrid.
Danny’s widow, Sarah, and two kids, Steven and Kali, with Carrie Madrid and Pat Washburn, Director of the Men 2 Program.
Financial Support includes Copays, utility bills, rental assistance, fuel cards to help with transportation to and from treatments, as well as groceries. The Adam’s Angels initiative provides grants to children whose mom or dad dies from breast cancer. TCP’s Men 2 program aims at supporting males nationwide who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. All other services remain dedicated to those within the Inland Empire of So Cal.
Emotional Support includes the Survivor Social Club, which meets monthly in both English and Spanish, Survivor Mentorships, and end-of-life doula services for individuals with terminal illnesses. Madrid is a Certified Death Doula and provides her services to breast cancer patients at no charge.
For more information, please contact Carrie Madrid at cmadrid@thecareprojectinc.org or (951) 742-7405, or visit TheCareProjectInc.org.
The CARE Project reminds us that breast cancer affects both men and women, noting that while 1 in 8 women are diagnosed, 1 in 726 men also receive a diagnosis. “TCP’s motto is “Never Stop Caring!” and its mission reflects that breast cancer does not discriminate, nor does TCP’s Support,” said Madrid.
The CARE Project, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to providing financial and emotional Support to individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment in the local community. Through direct financial assistance and essential services, TCP aims to alleviate the burdens faced by patients, enabling them to focus on their healing.
Photo Caption: Majors Adam and Christine Morales as the new Corps officers for The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County, effective immediately.
“The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County already has a reputation for doing great work in the community. So, my wife and I feel very privileged to have been appointed here to take over its leadership and continue to build its work and develop new ways to serve the community,” said Majors Adam Morales.
REDLANDS, Calif. – The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County announces the appointment of Majors Adam and Christine Morales as the new Corps officers, effective July 1, 2025.
Majors’ Morales brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to service. Their previous assignment was serving as Administrators at the Pasadena Adult Rehabilitation Center.
With a shared passion for preaching and serving others, they have ministered together in diverse settings, including as Corps Officers in Glendale, Arizona, and Lurgan, Northern Ireland, and on Divisional Headquarters.
Major Adam has also served as Corps Officer in Ukraine, Director of Humanitarian Aid in the Republic of Georgia, Territorial Finance Secretary in Russia, and Divisional Finance & Business Secretary in the Southwest Division.
“The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County welcomes Majors Adam and Christine Morales to lead the work in San Bernardino County,” said Army Advisory Board chairperson Cindy Amrine, of Ground Hog, Inc. “Their extensive ministry experience, dedication to service, and family life represent the spirit of The Salvation Army. The organization anticipates a positive community impact.”
“The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County already has a reputation for doing great work in the community. So my wife and I feel very privileged to have been appointed here to take over its leadership and continue to build its work and develop new ways to serve the community,” said Majors Adam Morales.
A reception welcoming the majors is set for Thursday, September 18, at The Salvation Army Citadel office at 838 Alta Street, in Redlands, at 6:00 pm. RSVP at: Meet the Majors
Music is a meaningful part of their ministry. Major Adam plays the piano, and Major Christine enjoys singing. The Morales family, including their three teenage children, is committed to their calling with faith, compassion, and joy.
In 2024, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino County served 28,201 people in 25,022 households. Those served include the hungry, homeless, and hopeless in the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church serving 134 countries and every zip code in the United States. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
The Salvation Army welcomes donations of food, clothing, toys, and money, which can be dropped off at the Hospitality House 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.
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 without discrimination.
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.
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)
“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.
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.
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.
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.
