Happily Divorced And After

RIVERSIDE, CA— The Riverside County Black Chamber of Commerce (RCBCC) attended the 5th Annual “Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds Community Health Fair and 100 Mile Club Walk” at Agate Park in Jurupa Valley on Saturday, November 14.  The RCBCC represents Covered California in the effort to enroll people in a health insurance program. As a designated “Navigator”, the RCBCC is committed to informing people about Covered California, as well as enrolling them in the program.  Among those pictured above is Pepi Jackson (Cap and sunglasses), the president of RCBCC. Pepi states, “If you want to know more about Covered California, please call our office at (951) 823-0175 or go to www.youqualify.org.”  The RCBCC meets every third Thursday at its Riverside office located at 2060 Chicago Avenue.

Looking to impose tougher laws on bullying

Submitted by Dr. Spinner

LOS ANGELES, CA—It was cold breezy day, missing her family, Dr. Spinner’s wife, renowned Boca Raton Attorney, Nekishia L. Spinner, is yet not frazzled due to her assignment of going to the White House to bring forth change through prayer and supplication, in regards to Bully Awareness Network’s initiative of ending all forms of bullying.  One of the objectives of BAN is to get legislation passed that will impose tougher laws against bullying in schools.  Conversely, many miles away on a different coastline, her husband hosted the Move 2 Improve Tour, which was a youth empowerment event that encouraged youth to embrace their unique talents and gifts in the arts.

Saturday night at the Chuco’s Youth Justice Center, you can hear the thumping, all of sudden youth begin to scream, not in fear, however out of excitement as Shane Sparks enters the building.  Later, Aarona Lopez comes into to the facility showing the teens some Wild N Out fun.  Oakland Rapper, Kayla B., “it was a night truly to remember! “  Reverberating music provided by some of Disney and Nickelodeon’s finest social media stars and headline teen acts such as Korina Davis, one of, if not the best violinist in the world, Pynk Lemonade, Aliyah Moulden, Faithy J, and The Johnson’s Twins, “definitely, they are some of the best young talent in the country, which very few can match!”  “These young people spend countless hours perfecting their artistry, which we have an artist development program as well as teach kids about how to become an entrepreneur.”  One artist, Faithy J, is selling a book entitled, “You Are Never Too Young to Get Started,” while another Aliyah Moulden will be learning how to form patterns, make textiles, and create her own special creations all under her signature brand, under the tutelage of Christia’n Annice, who designs adolescents clothes out of her boutique, Issis Sky.  The Bully Awareness Network welcomes her participation in part of their Young Executive Entrepreneur Academy (Y.E.E.A.)!  “We will continue to develop leaders that reflect our culture, climate, and cognitive state, resonating the message to end all forms of bullying, states Dr. Spinner, Founder and President of BAN. He continues to add that, “we have to replace the wayward behavior with positive reinforcement.”   Lastly, Dr. Spinner is ecstatic to see another entrepreneur Kali Raah coming out of the program to bring his T-Shirt Line Kali Raah.   Additionally, Dr. Spinner, he is firmly committed to the youth being empowered as Bryce Xavier, vehemently and passionately shared their personal encounters with bullying,  as well as spoke the dire need of social reform.

Several celebrity guest came out to show support towards Dr. Spinner’s initiative, Ro Brooks, who shared with the kids how to become an actor and what it takes using quotes from his book, “How to go from Extra to ACTOR.” Shane Sparks, of America Best Dance Crew TV Show,  if not the top choreographer in the world, spoke about the discipline that is required to become a top dancer and performer; Tony Nicholas, son of legendary tap duet group, the Nicholas Brothers, and a special appearance was made by Miss California 2015, Erika Abke who spoke about teen domestic violence.  In addition to being broadcast live by 1580 AM Da Radio Show.

Next on the tour line, November 21, as BAN pulls together five community churches and feeds up to thousand people a Thanksgiving Meal, while promoting their initiative with BAN guest speakers, hosted by Dr. Spinner, Tenise Taylor (Bullying), Shelia Peters (Protecting your kids from Sex Trafficking), and Joi Hall (Teen Domestic Violence) as well as some of the best young talent in the country performing.  Thereafter, Dr. Spinner has scheduled a tour in early December for teens to tour the college campus of USC.  We need to continuously keep our kids engaged and I look forward to signing up as many kids possible, regardless of age.

Next, we are having our Free Toy Drive and Christmas Concert that is going to have absolutely, “hands down the best talent on the planet, as I have been getting calls from various record labels as well as vp’s from Sony, DreamWorks, Hollywood Entertainment, wanting to come the event to hear the young people perform.”  Dr. Spinner welcomes all”clean” acts “as we are promoting a new culture of substance as well as purpose.”

December 22 event, which will lead up to the Martin Luther King Parade, January 18, 2016 that will be televised live on Channel 7.  “We are honored by the committee to have selected BAN to be part of this amazing event, which I look forward to getting the kids out and being a part of history in a major way!”  You can continue to follow the Move 2 Improve Tour on FB at Bully Awareness Network.

“We need everyone’s support, as we will have several events coming up starting with Men and Boys (Teen) Domestic Violence Forum, our semiannual forum on domestic violence and sex trafficking conference, and our anti bullying talent showcases. “

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Dr. J.J. Spinner at 323 301 2416 or email at Bullyawarenessnetwork@gmail.com.

Steinorth, Harmsen

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board co-hosted a job fair with Assemblyman Marc Steinorth (R-Rancho Cucamonga) on Monday, October 26 at California State University, San Bernardino.  The attendance rate was high during the three-hour event.  More than 350 job seekers had the opportunity to meet with 30 employers offering more than 300 jobs in industries including manufacturing, transportation, military, retail and public sectors.

According to Workforce Development Department Deputy Director Miguel McQueen, the job fairs are primarily designed to forge pathways to careers and to connect skilled workers with middle class jobs in the County.

“In our region we have the food service industry on one end and the technological sector at the higher end,” McQueen explained.  “Here at the job fair there are multiple paths in between for our county residents to build a career.”

Representatives from the Workforce Investment Board were on-hand to assist job seekers with applications and resumes.

“I’m always looking for better ways to represent the Inland Empire, and my main focus is to bring as much attention to the community as possible.  This is a great way to bring resources that help the local community thrive,” explained Steinorth.  “If I can’t help the middle class families and businesses as a region, then I’m not doing my job.”

Many attendees gained interview opportunities, submitted applications, and had in-person conversations with potential employers, a rare opportunity in a process that is usually handled online.

“These fairs offer job seekers the opportunity to make connections face to face with numerous employers under one roof.  The employers represent a range of industries and that is why we will continue to provide this resource for both employers and job seekers,” said San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chairman James Ramos.  “This is just one example of our commitment to offer resources and services to develop our workforce in order to help attain countywide prosperity.”

Dana Stirling of Loma Linda, graduated from Cal State San Bernardino with a bachelor’s degree in history in 2014.  By the time of her departure, she had scheduled an interview with an insurance company the following week.

  “We realized through the last few job fairs that there was an increase in the number of positions offered by employers,” said Sandy Harmsen, Executive Director of the Workforce Investment Board.  “Twenty-five percent of job seekers scheduled an interview within the next week, a good indicator that the economy is continuing to improve and there is a proliferation of jobs on the market.”

Lou Coleman

By Lou Coleman

Today is, “Second Chance Day!”… Today is, “Get Right Day!”… Today is, “Election Day!”… A day in which you get to “Cast Your Ballot!”… A day in which, you get to “Choose!”… A day in which, Your Decision will affect your “Destiny.” It is a personal decision… It is so personal that no one else can make it for you.  And it is a decision that must be made “Today!”  So, “Cast Your Ballot” and “Choose this day Whom you will serve.” Will it be God or the World? Christianity or Secularism? Wealth, pleasure, beauty, physical perfection, or sensationalism? I want you to know that the decision God is calling you to make today is of more importance than any other decision you will ever make. And it is a decision that must be made now because you do not know what tomorrow holds. For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. [James 4:14]. It is a decision that must be made now to avoid the hardening of the heart. It is a decision that must be made now because it cannot be made after death. Why is it such a big deal? Why should this decision be made NOW? Because you cannot save yourself. Because God does not desire to see a soul eternally lost. Because Jesus, gave His life to save you!

I want you to know that today you stand very much where the tribes of Israel stood when Joshua addressed them [Joshua 24], and now you too must respond.  Understand that there is a battle going on for your heart and mind, your loyalty and allegiance; so choose carefully! And remember that the choice and commitment you make today will determine your future. I want you to know that after Joshua addressed the people of Israel, they rose to the occasion and replied most appropriately: They said, “Far be it from us that we should forsake the Lord to serve other gods….” I am sure they meant it.  But, they quickly fell away. How are you doing? What will define you? Will it be God or the world that comes first?  What about … “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord!”  Is that a defining statement for you?   Jesus says, “Follow me.” Then He comes back insisting that it’s “Either-or.” Jesus calls for a clear decision. “You cannot serve God and Mammon.” You cannot keep wavering, He says. Time is running out. You must take a stand. “Choose this day Whom you will serve!” Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. [2 Cor. 6:17-18]. Just as the Lord issued a call through Joshua all those centuries ago for His people to make of their minds as to Whom they would serve, so He issues the same call to you on this day. It’s time to make up your mind! And, it is! Decide Who will have your worship, your love and your obedience: God Almighty or the World… Sadly, Israel did not keep their vows to the Lord and they paid a terribly high price. Justt read [Judges, Samuel, Kings and Chronicles].

Today is “Election Day!”… Choose this day Whom you will serve…. “I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” [Deuteronomy 30:19].

SAN BERNARDINO, CA. — Arroyo Valley High School in San Bernardino has been named a 2015 Gaston Caperton Opportunity Award school by the College Board for providing underrepresented students with the support they need to succeed academically. Arroyo Valley is one of four high schools nationwide to receive the award in 2015 and will receive a $25,000 award to apply toward programs that encourage more students to attend college.

“All students deserve the opportunity to succeed. The Gaston Caperton Opportunity Award honors schools like Arroyo Valley that are making good on their commitment to deliver that opportunity every day,” said David Coleman, president and CEO of the College Board. “Today we celebrate Arroyo Valley High School for showing how great classroom instruction, challenging courses, and daily hard work and practice make all the difference in the lives of students.”

College Board representatives announced the award for Arroyo Valley High School at a celebratory event on November 6, at the annual College Board Forum in Washington, D.C.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Assemblyman Marc Steinorth (R-Rancho Cucamonga) held a Veterans Resource Fair last week that brought more than 500 military veterans who were seeking assistance with issues such as healthcare, education, housing services, and other benefits available to them to this event.

“We have many men and women here in our local communities that have given so much to our country, and I am honored to host events like this resource fair that help improve their quality of life,” said Assemblyman Steinorth. “I plan to do all that I can as their state representative to assure they receive the services they deserve.”

The San Bernardino County Department of Veterans Affairs issued 275 veteran ID cards at the 4 hour event, more than they normally issue in a month. These ID cards will provide local veterans with benefits such as discounts on products and services. Numerous other government and private agencies were also on-hand to answer questions, solve concerns and offer benefit information.

“I want to thank Assemblyman Steinorth for hosting this event and for all of his efforts to make sure our local veterans are cared for,” said Rhoda Rhoades, Service Supervisor for the San Bernardino County Department of Veterans Affairs.  “This event saw the biggest turnout we have ever had for such an event in our region. Many local veterans and their families will greatly benefit from what they learned at this event.”

LOS ANGELES, CA-  A dinner celebrating The Eva Longoria Foundation raised funds to support the Foundation’s mission to help Latinas build better futures for themselves and their families through education and entrepreneurship. The dinner took place on Thursday, November 5^th at Eva Longoria’s restaurant, Beso, in Los Angeles. Attendees included Eva Longoria, Mario Lopez, Zachary Levi (“Heroes Reborn”), Roselyn Sanchez (“Devious Maids”), Judy Reyes (“Devious Maids”), Amaury Nolasco (“Prison Break”, “Telenovela”), Holly Robinson Peete, Rodney Peete, Alex Meneses (“Telenovela”), Diana Maria Riva (“Telenovela”), Izzy Diaz (“Telenovela”), Jadyn Douglas (“Telenovela”), Steven Bauer (“Ray Donovan”), Robin Antin (Pussycat Dolls), Rebecca Da Costa (THE BAG MAN) and philanthropist and activist Henry Muñoz.  

Guests arrived at Beso Hollywood for cocktails followed by dinner and remarks from Eva Longoria and Laysha Ward, President of Community Relations at Target. Host Eva Longoria spoke about the launch of the Foundation’s nationwide Latina mentorship network and its 2015 Parent Engagement Convening, which brought 40 top experts together to find ways to involve exponentially more parents in their children’s education. Longoria also described the Foundation’s signature STEM education programs, which have helped more than 2,600 Latinas develop technology skills, such as coding and robotics. Actress, producer, and star of “Devious Maids” Judy Reyes spoke about the Foundation’s commitment to cultivating the full potential of Latinas. Actor and host of EXTRA Mario Lopez and CEO of Muñoz & Company and Foundation Board Member Henry Muñoz also made remarks about the value of the Foundation’s work to Latinas and the country as a whole. Premiere event sponsor Target announced an additional $100,000 contribution to the Foundation. Event sponsors included HBO/Time Warner, The Jacki and Gilbert Cisneros Foundation, Creative Artist Agency, and the Televisa Foundation. Denim designer Henry & Belle and apparel brand good hYOUman provided guests with complimentary women’s jeans and men’s shirts. Executive Chef Angel Estrada prepared an exquisite four-course meal for guests.

The Eva Longoria Foundation was established in 2012 by actress, activist and philanthropist Eva Longoria. The Foundation gives Latinas the tools to succeed through education and entrepreneurship. There are currently 25 million Latinas in the US and by 2015, they will make up 15% of the total population. The Foundation works to improve the futures not only of the Latinas they serve, but also of the US as a whole.

If you would like to donate to the Eva Longoria Foundation, please visit www.evalongoriafoundation.org/donate.

Dr. Margaret B. Hill

RIVERSIDE, CA– Extraordinary leaders and youth programs will be recognized and awarded at the Theta Pi Sigma Inland Empire alumnae chapter observance

Tori Weiston, Ph.D

of the 93rd Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. Founders’ Day on Saturday, November 14, 11 a.m., at the Mountain Meadows Golf Club in Pomona.

The honorees are: Dr. Margaret B. Hill, a 40+ years educator, administrator, author, columnist and founder of Maggie’s Kids Foundation; Tori Weiston, Ph.D., scholar, mentor and practitioner as well as founder and executive director of the Youth Mentoring Action Network; and Shannon O’Brien, co-founder and executive director of Children Resources Inc., as well as a member of the San Bernardino City Unified School District’s Task Force for African American Student Achievement. Also being honored is the Evelyn E. Perkins Scholarship Foundation, co-founded in their mother’s name by sisters Danessa Jackson, Michelle Heard and Trudi Perkins, which in just six years has awarded more than $20,000 in scholarships to high school students from single-parent homes. Each of this year’s honorees has established impactful local community movements geared toward equipping and inspiring youth to dream more, learn more, do more and become more.

“The endeavors of these trailblazing leaders and organizations strongly align with our sorority’s focus,” says Deborah Moore, president of the Theta Pi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho. “And it makes this a most fitting tribute marking our 93^rd Founders’ Day observance.”

Tickets are $45 each for the Founders’ Day observance and can be purchased through Eventbrite.com by entering “Theta Pi Sigma Gospel Brunch”; by contacting the chapter at

Shannon O’Brien

thetapisigma1922@yahoo.com or 951.777.4148; or by contacting any of the chapter members directly. Proceeds will help fund scholarships for Inland Empire youth. Donations are also accepted via Eventbrite.With the theme “This Means WAR!”, the November 14 event will also feature gospel music

Danessa Jackson Co-Founder for EEPSF

from soloist Lillian Crawford, a performance by the Victory Praise Dancers and songs of praise by the Loveland Church Praise Team Leads (Allegra Parks, Valerie Singleton and Brian Bradley, featuring Grammy nominated arranger Marco Basci).

Moore explains, “We’re praying that attendees will leave fully armored to join us in going to war against low self-esteem, bullying, police brutality, poverty, teen pregnancy and anything else that prevents our youth from becoming all that they can be.”

The IE Hair EXPO 2015 is WHAT IT DO WITH THE LUE! Umm, can you say major SUCCESS! I can’t say enough how much fun and how exciting the hair show was. This past Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending the 1st Annual IE Hair Expo hosted by Jacquetta Green of Cali All Stars Entertainment and Jessie Green of Joe Reed Records and all the sponsors that helped to make this happen in the IE. They knocked it out of the ball park. This was a much needed event, not just for the San Bernardino Community, but for the Cosmetology and Barber community as a whole.

I mean, you had just about every barbershop and hair shop from the IE in that thang representing to the fullest. You had Loved Ones, Artistically Yours, Cold Cutz, Anointed Braids, Star’s A Cut Above, Nappy Roots Salon, and Barber City to name a few. There was nonstop action! It was an all age event that included barber competitions, a fashion show, tutorials, food vendors, and community vendors such as Crown Wigs and The Plug, an urban fashion and graphic store; and Ribs. Local artists also lit up the stage with their talent.

The event was hosted by DJ Fredy Fresco of 99.1 KGGI. There was a special guest appearance by Doris Mosley, Mater Stylist educator, and produce of SIBE which stands for Spectrum International Beauty EXPO.

Sunday this was the place to be in the Inland Empire. I was especially happy that I was able to spend $20 bucks and receive $75.00 to $100.00 worth of hair product. Now that’s winning!! The day ended with a night of celebration featuring rapper Staxx Huges and Fitz Taylor and others. Congratulations to all the talented winners which included: Anointed Touch Braidery, they took 1st place in Most Original; Make Up artist Peaches of Straight To The Head; DJ Mysteree and Deevetva Foy, Director of ADMIN for LUE Productions; Jacquetta Greeen, event coordinator and CEO of Cali All Stars; and Mr. Wilson, owner of Crown Wigs in San Bernardino. Can’t wait for next year! L’zzz!

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- It’s Scorpio season and the Westside Story Newspaper has quite a few ladies born in the month of November. Our Editor Naomi K. Bonman, Marketing Director Naomi Riggins, and Columnist/Administrative Manager Lou Coleman all work very hard to edit and market the paper each week to bring you the latest news within the Inland Empire.  If you also have a birthday coming up or know someone who does, send them or yourself a special keepsake that can be cherished and posted on the wall. Please email walleniv@yahoo.com or hired2market@gmail.com for rates.

Lou Coleman, November 14

Naomi Riggins, November 11

Naomi K. Bonman, November 20