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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Some believe in helping from a distance—Lifting as We Climb believes in showing up. This dynamic group is redefining what it means to serve, dedicating themselves to uplifting individuals through direct and meaningful acts of kindness. Their hands-on approach to compassion has earned them the prestigious Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award, a recognition given to those who embody the power of service in action.

Formed in 2024, Lifting as We Climb isn’t an organization seeking the spotlight or large-scale fundraising efforts. Instead, they focus on small, personal moments that make a lasting impact—offering a hand up, relieving a burden, or simply brightening someone’s day. Their work proves that change doesn’t always come from grand gestures; sometimes, it’s the quiet acts of kindness that create the biggest ripples.

The Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award celebrates those who lead with heart, and Lifting as We Climb exemplifies this spirit through their unwavering commitment to helping others. Their journey is a testament to the fact that true impact isn’t measured in applause, but in the lives forever changed by genuine care.

Other Award Honorees Include:

Philanthropist of the Year: Taraji P. Henson, Academy Award-nominated actress, producer, and mental health advocate

Humanitarian Award: Jon Pardi, Country music star and founder of the Starlight Fund

Dynamic Duo Award: Charisse Bremond Weaver and George Weaver

Women’s Global Icon Award: Academy Award®-Nominated Producer Chiara Tilesi

Community Champion Award: Michelle Decker

Nancy Varner Angel Award: Richard Jeske

Unsung Hero Award: Ginger Ontiveros

The 23rd Annual Awards Gala celebrates the resilience and achievements of those overcoming homelessness, domestic violence, and systemic barriers. The event honors leaders, advocates, and community partners who champion change and empower marginalized individuals.

The gala will feature client testimonials highlighting TFCF’s transformative impact, an awards ceremony, gourmet dining, and fundraising opportunities to support the foundation’s expanding programs. Social hour begins at 6:00 PM with the formal program at 7:00 PM.

Individual tickets, table sponsorships, and advertising opportunities in the souvenir program are available now at www.timeforchangefoundation.org.

By Alyssa Hall

When he was younger, Grenada native, Christon Arthur remembers his mother telling stories about her childhood and how she was kicked out of school in third grade. Not because she was a bad child or not intelligent, but because she was a girl and her school thought she should be at home and domesticated.

Arthur was very close to his late mother, whom he called his inspiration for pursuing the field of education. From a young age Arthur was determined to become a teacher so that what happened to his mother would never happen to anyone again.

Since July 1, 2024, Arthur has served as La Sierra University’s sixth president. He is the university’s first Black president since the school was founded in 1922. La Sierra University is a private, Seventh-day Adventist university. Prior to his appointment at La Sierra, Arthur was the provost of Andrews University in Michigan.

“Being the first anything could be daunting, could be challenging, but at the same time, it’s an opportunity,” Arthur said.

“This is Southern California. One of the more progressive parts of the country. La Sierra, is one of the more progressive universities within the private sector, and then it took us 103 years? You see it as an opportunity to be able to do good work, and to say, you give us the chance, and we will surpass your expectations,” Arthur continued.

Arthur’s journey to success wasn’t without trials, but as he looks back, he’s happy they occurred. When Arthur was a high school teacher in Grenada, there was a position open for principal that he and his colleagues were certain he was going to receive. However, it went to another individual and Arthur was devastated.

“I was sure I was going to get it. Before the end of the year, I got a call from this person saying, ‘we see your work. We see you. We know what you do. We want to provide you a scholarship to go to graduate school,” Arthur recalled.

But, if Arthur had received that job, he would have never attended graduate school and gone on to complete his doctorate, and then become a faculty member at Tennessee State.

“Not getting that job was the biggest blessing [that] ever happened to me. ” Arthur said.

As the Trump administration dismantles programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion, and others that threaten the identities of marginalized communities,  Arthur wants to assure staff and students that La Sierra University is a welcoming place to all, “There’s a place for you,” he said.

“I want that to sort of be, not simply a tagline, not a narrative. I want it to become part of our core. You’re welcome here…we have this grand table, and there’s a place for you at the table.” Arthur explained.

In the last seven months as president, Arthur has been laying the foundation, building relationships and having meaningful and impactful conversations with the community including the Riverside County Office of Education and The 100 Black Men of Inland Empire, Inc.

Arthur shared that he has been in conversation with the 100 Black Men because the group stands for Black excellence and he wants to be a part of combating the negative and stereotypical image that society sometimes has of Black people.

“I want La Sierra to be part of that story, so that our young people can know there’s a place for you at La Sierra University. There’s a place for you to come and to thrive,” Arthur said. “So, we [are] creating those relationships, creating those pathways to say to young people, ‘there is an alternative path, and we’ll help you find it and help you thrive.’”

When it comes to the future, La Sierra University is working on their strategic plan for the next three years. According to Arthur, articulating the university’s core purpose, values, and what makes them unique and distinct is important. Part of their strategic thinking is to increase their student population to 5,000 students in 10 years.  The university’s fall 2023 enrollment numbers were 1,614.

“For fall 2025, we have this slogan, this tagline, this goal, fall 2025 and all 500 new freshmen. It will be the largest freshman class in 14 years,” Arthur said.

“We’re going to stretch ourselves. And sure, they’re ambitious [goals], but they’re attainable. If you can reach your goal without stretching, it’s probably not a lofty enough goal. Your goal should keep you up at night,” Arthur continued.

By Angela M. Coggs

On March 15, 2025, in Rancho Cucamonga, CA NFL player Alexander Mattison and the IAMGIFTED Foundation hosted the Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event at the Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy Center. The family-friendly gathering brought the community together to promote mental health awareness in a fun and welcoming environment.

Mattison, a proud San Bernardino native and San Bernardino High School alumnus, took center stage at the event, sharing his personal journey with mental health struggles. He spoke candidly about-facing past challenges without realizing their impact, crediting mentors Pastor Mark Thornton and his aunt, Dr. Angela Mattison-Brantley, for helping him shift his perspective and embrace a positive path forward. With heartfelt gratitude, Mattison praised Dr. Mattison-Brantley for her unwavering support and guidance.

“At IAMGIFTED Foundation, our purpose is to empower and uplift young minds by providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential,” said Niki Dettman, Chief Executive Officer at Making Hop e Happen Foundation and IAMGIFTED Foundation Board Member. “Today’s event truly highlights the power of community, collaboration, and giving back.  We are thankful to Wellness Ranch Therapy and the many sponsors and vendors who supported us.”

Attendees embraced the western theme by donning cowboy hats, boots, and other ranch-inspired attire. Those who participated in the theme were entered into a raffle to win an exciting prize, adding a fun and engaging element to the day.

The event, sponsored by Andre Reed Foundation, Awareness Training, Bank of America, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Carl’s Jr., CIA33 Photography, Creative Kingdom, Cutey Cookies, Goody’s Original Popcorn, Homecooked Meals by Mindy, The Parlor Pizzeria, and SoCAL Fitness and Massage Therapy. It was a lively celebration filled with memorable moments. Mattison actively mingled with guests, signing autographs, posing for photos, and even joining the crowd on the dance floor for the stretching exercise and when the line dance songs started to play. His genuine enthusiasm and energy created a welcoming atmosphere, making it hard to believe this was the IAMGIFTED Foundation’s first wellness event.

“The event at the Wellness Ranch with the Equine Assistance Therapy with Alexander Mattison was absolutely amazing, it was amazing. The kids, the families, the professionals…it was for everybody,” exclaimed County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Troy Mondragon. “Coming here today was a joy for us (Commissioner Contreras). This event saves lives. The way they are demonstrating what mental health can be, how we can live with it and have fun, and that everybody has a gift. That was the message here and it resonated with every single person.”

Mattison’s dedication to his hometown is nothing short of inspiring. Since joining the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings, he has consistently given back to his community. He hosts an annual football camp at San Bernardino High School, providing local kids with mentorship, skills training, and inspiration. Additionally, he sponsors scholarships and personally presents monthly Student of the Month awards to deserving students in the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD).

Mattison’s commitment to showing up in person makes a lasting impact on the students he recognizes. His warm smile, approachable personality, and unwavering dedication have earned him a special place in the hearts of his community. “We are very proud that he (Mattison) is from San Bernardino,” said County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Eloisa Contreras.

Mattison sincerely spoke to the attendees straight from the heart: “You were born with a gift. You have to find it, embrace it and use it to shed light on the world. If you can be a little bit of light in somebody’s dark times, pay it forward and bring them to the light. We can all make this place and world a brighter place. Find your gift within. You’re not alone and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, find your gift and let it shine.”

The Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event was a powerful reminder that mental health awareness can be addressed in a positive, uplifting way — and Alexander Mattison continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, on and off the field, for the San Bernardino community and beyond.

Alexander Mattison is an American professional football running back for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football Leagues (NFL).

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Social Lites, Inc. is proud to announce the 58th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program, which will take place on March 29, 2025, at 5:45 p.m. This prestigious event will showcase the dedication, leadership, and academic excellence of young men vying for the esteemed title of Sir Knight.

The theme for this year’s Beautillion is “Mastering Your Destiny, Defines Your Success,” with keynote speaker Dr. Akinlana Osonduagwuike.  He is an educator who has mentored countless students in helping them align their priorities and pursue their dreams for a successful future. The program underscores the significance of empowering young individuals to take charge of their futures through education, community service, and personal growth.

The participants in this year’s program are Joseph Goree, Jr., Brandon McIntosh, Jr. and Jaden Overstreet where one of the distinguished Knights will be achieve the title of Sir Knight. His journey exemplifies the ideals of perseverance, excellence, and commitment to achieving greatness. The Knights, will present their talents, character, and dedication to making a positive impact in their communities.

Social Lites, Inc. has been dedicated to serving the community for over five decades, providing scholarships and mentorship to deserving young individuals. The Social Lites, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to improving the quality of life in our community through educational programs, charitable contributions, and mentorship. The Beautillion Scholarship Program is just one of the many initiatives designed to empower youth and provide them with the resources and opportunities needed to succeed.

The Beautillion Scholarship Program continues to be one of the organization’s signature events, promoting educational advancement and leadership in young men.

The event will feature inspiring speeches and the ceremonial presentation of the Knights, culminating in the announcement of Sir Knight. Scholarships will also be awarded to the Knights who will have demonstrated exemplary qualities throughout the program.

It will take place at San Manuel Santos Student Union Building on the beautiful campus of California State University, CA.

For more information, or to RSVP, please contact Social Lites, Inc., President Sheri Lewis at (909) 320-0799.

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

During an online conference on Feb. 26, California Attorney General Rob Bonta detailed how the Trump Administration had used its first five and half weeks to execute an agenda that runs counter in various ways to California state policies and priorities.

Since taking office, President Donald Trump has issued scores of executive actions that make good on many of his campaign promises. Bonta said the impact of Trump’s exercise of his powers is creeping up on the doorsteps of California’s diverse residents.

“People are scared, worried, anxious, and uncertain about what’s happening in the federal government. And will it impact their lives and loved ones,” Bonta said. “Sadly, I think it’s pretty clear that that’s part of the president’s strategy: To flood the zone, overwhelm us with a barrage of damaging, dangerous, and illegal executive orders and actions that impede on the law and values that make America strong.”

Bonta made the statement while delivering an address as the guest speaker of a virtual conference hosted by Capitol Weekly, a non-partisan publication focused on California politics.

“The Resistance: California vs. Donald Trump.” The 4 ½ hour event explored Trump’s presidential executive orders, mass firings, deportations, and billionaire Elon Musk’s handling of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

One of the directives Trump signed on Jan. 21 bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in the federal government and urges the private sector to follow suit.

March is Older Californians Nutrition Month.

It is a time, state authorities say, to recognize the importance of nutritious food and social connection in healthy aging The California Department of Aging (CDA) reminds older adults that a variety of state-supported programs are available to improve their health and well-being, including group and home-delivered meals, exercise classes, and grocery assistance.

“Californians aged 60 and older have access to free meals specifically designed to meet the nutrition needs of older individuals,” said CDA Director Susan DeMarois.

“For many older Californians, a meal represents more than nutrition — it’s about health, independence, and connection,” she said.

The state provides vital services, such as the Congregate Meals Program, which serves nutritious meals at senior centers and other venues, and the Home-Delivered Meals Program, which ensures that homebound seniors receive healthy meals. In 2024, CDA’s local partners delivered 15.7 million meals to isolated older adults. Additionally, the CalFresh program offers financial assistance to help eligible seniors purchase food, with participation growing significantly in recent years.

“Ensuring that older Californians have access to healthy meals and essential services is part of our broader commitment to equity and well-being,” said California Health & Human Services Agency Secretary Kim Johnson.

By 2030, older adults are projected to outnumber children in California, making access to these resources more critical than ever. The state also offers programs like the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program, which help seniors buy fresh produce and meals at participating locations.

For more information on available services, seniors can contact their local Area Agency on Aging or visit CDA’s website.

By BoTefu | California Black Media

Gov. Gavin Newsom has condemned the Trump Administration’s decision to impose tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, warning that the move will hurt American consumers and businesses.

“Tariffs are nothing more than a tax on hardworking American families — driving up the cost of groceries, cars, and essential goods,” Newsom said in a statement.

California, the world’s fifth-largest economy, is particularly vulnerable to trade disruptions. The state relies heavily on imports and exports, with Mexico, Canada, and China accounting for over 40% of its imports. In 2024 alone, California imported $203.3 billion worth of goods from these three nations, out of a total $491.5 billion in imports.

Beyond increasing consumer prices, Newsom warned that retaliatory tariffs from these countries would directly impact California businesses, farmers, and exporters. Mexico, Canada, and China are the state’s top three export destinations, and new trade restrictions could significantly affect key industries, including agriculture and manufacturing.

The Governor also highlighted the potential impact on the construction sector, noting that tariffs could raise costs for materials essential to rebuilding efforts following the devastating firestorms in Los Angeles County.

SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson has been appointed by the Speaker of the California State Assembly to serve as the State Assembly Ex Officio Member on the California Air Resources Board (CARB). His appointment brings a fresh perspective to the board, reflecting the needs of communities affected by industrial development and daily commuting challenges.

Dr. Jackson represents a region where many residents face long commutes and where warehouse development and industrial growth raise air quality concerns. Dr. Jackson is committed to ensuring that California updates its climate goals and makes clean air a top priority, while also protecting our families by finding ways to reduce gas prices. We can achieve both—a sustainable, healthier environment and financial relief for those who commute long distances every day. It is vital to find solutions that advance environmental progress without placing undue strain on our communities.

“As a lawmaker representing areas directly impacted by industrial growth, long commutes, and rising gas prices, I look forward to bringing the concerns of the State Assembly to CARB and increasing legislative oversight,” said Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson. “My active participation on the board will help ensure that our state’s air quality and climate policies work for all Californians.”

Dr. Jackson is known for his commitment to social justice and protecting vulnerable communities. His service on CARB comes at a crucial time as California navigates the balance between environmental protection and economic stability.

The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra has quite a weekend coming up and invites you to be a part.

The Symphony’s 96th performance season begins on March 22 with “Storm and Seduction: Reformation vs. Carmen,” a creative juxtaposition of two Romantic/Classical favorites which will be held at the historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts in downtown San Bernardino.

In the first half of this 3 p.m. matinee, Symphony Music Director and Conductor Anthony Parnther will lead the Orchestra in Felix Mendelssohn’s powerful and evocative Fifth Symphony in D minor, known as the “Reformation” Symphony. In the second half, Maestro Parnther will welcome to the stage noted vocalists Maria Dominique Lopez, Orson Van Gay II, and Jose Luis Maldonado for electrifying selections from Georges Bizet’s beloved opera, Carmen.

“While we have presented a variety of repertoire as of late, the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra celebrates music of every genre, especially the cornerstone orchestral music for which we have long been known,” explained Maestro Parnther. “I invite our community, and especially those new to orchestral performance, to give this concert a try. I can guarantee it will not be what you’d expect!”

Purchase March 22 Concert Tickets

Meet the Featured Artists

Maria Dominique Lopez

Praised as “a rich-voiced mezzo” (Operawire) and “a real tour-de-force” (Splash Magazine), Mexican-American mezzo soprano Maria Dominique Lopez has sung operatic roles and symphonic works throughout the United States and Europe for over a decade. Additionally, she has recorded vocals for independent films and major motion pictures, including Golden Globe and Academy Award Winning Disney/Pixar film, “Coco,” (which she describes as her “proudest vocal achievement”) and New Line Cinema’s horror film, “The Curse of La Llorona.”

 Orson V

Symphony patrons will recognize American Operatic Tenor Orson V from a number of previous appearances with the orchestra. He was first introduced to Symphony audiences when he performed as part of the stellar group of vocalists at our 2023 concert under the stars. Van Gay has captivated audiences in classical and contemporary opera and concert performances with his charisma and “fine heroic tenor” (San Francisco Classical Voice). He has garnered acclaim for roles in his home of Southern California and across the United States, with Broadway World declaring, “his sound was fluent and his high notes golden,” and Voix des Arts stating, “The vitality of his work was gratifyingly unflappable.”

Hailed by Opera News as a “seemingly unlimited baritone,” International vocalist Josè Luis Maldonado, from Los Angeles attended Cal State Fullerton (BM), and Manhattan School of Music (MM); he is currently attending Michigan State University as a candidate for a doctorate in music, vocal performance. He is a career grant recipient from the Opera Buffs Inc. and Richard F. Gold Career Grant recipient from the Shoshana Foundation.  He will soon make his Lincoln Center debut as Escamillo in Carmencita, an Argentinian adaptation in Spanish of Bizet’s Carmen.

Annual Gala Follows on Sunday

Josè Luis Maldonado

Opening weekend will also feature the Symphony’s 96th Season Gala which will benefit youth music education and access programs. Scheduled for Sunday, March 23 at 2 p.m. at the Barbara and Art Culver Center of the Arts, the event is themed “Music at the Foot of the Mountains” in honor of Symphony’s 2024 commissioned work “Al Pie de la Montaña” by Composer-In-Residence Fernando Arroyo Lascurain. Gala tickets are still available online or by calling the Symphony office at (909) 381-5388.

“This is our first Sunday afternoon gala,” shared Symphony President Elect and Gala Chair Sonietta M. Brown. “With the positive response to our matinee concerts, this seemed a lovely way to keep the momentum going. Further, holding the event in a gallery without the traditional table assignments is part of our commitment to creating inviting and inclusive events to uplift and spotlight the Inland Empire growing arts scene.”

Major event sponsors include The Black Voice News, St. Bernardine Medical Center and Medical Staff, San Bernardino City Unified School District, San Bernardino Community College District, Making Hope Happen Foundation, Lloyd and Marion Garrison, and Laurie and Kenneth Lane, MD.

Purchase March 23 Gala Tickets

Tickets and Location Details

While full season concert tickets are the most economical way to enjoy the SBSO performance year, single concert tickets are also available at $20-$100 per seat, with student seats priced at $15 with an accompanying adult. Venue box office sales are planned prior to all concert performances, but the availability of seats can never be guaranteed, so securing seats early is always highly suggested. The historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts is located at 562 W. Fourth Street in downtown San Bernardino. Free, lighted parking is available adjacent to the venue. Doors open one hour prior to concert time.

Gala tickets are $96 per person and sponsorships, most of which include both gala and concert tickets, are still available. The Barbara and Art Culver Center of the Arts is located at 3834 Main Street in downtown Riverside. Free parking is available directly across from the venue.

Both concert and gala tickets may be purchased online or by calling the Symphony office at (909) 381-5388 Monday through Friday between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

By Angela M. Coggs

Join us for an unforgettable evening of laughter, inspiration, and celebration as the Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation (YWEF) presents A Comedic Celebration of Women’s Empowerment in honor of Women’s s History Month. This empowering event will take place on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM (doors open at 5:30 PM) at the Diamond Gold Event Center, located at 371 W. Highland Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92405.

This special evening will highlight the achievements of six extraordinary women as we honor the 2025 Women Making History award recipients:

• Debbie Flores
• Suzanne Hazel
• Cazzmirr Middleton
• Shonie Perry
• Devona Robertson
• Wendy Whitmore

Tickets are available for $50 per person or $400 per table of eight. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for those who want to support and uplift the empowerment of women in our community.

Come celebrate the strength, resilience, and impact of women in a night filled with laughter and empowerment. Don’t miss this incredible event!

For more information, sponsorship inquiries, or to purchase tickets, please contact Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation or visit ywefoundation@gmail.com

About Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation

The Young Women’s s Empowerment Foundation is dedicated to inspiring, mentoring, and empowering young women to reach their full potential. Through programs, events, and scholarships, YWE Foundation continues to make a lasting impact in the lives of women and San Bernardino and the Inland Empire.