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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— On April 12, a significant collaboration between the San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD), California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), and the County of San Bernardino was formalized to combat student hunger. This collaboration is designed to expedite the qualification process for CalFresh, a critical federal aid program that provides monthly assistance for low-income individuals to purchase nutritious food.

The agreement will allow San Bernardino Valley College, Crafton Hills College, and CSUSB to share specific financial information from student’s FAFSA applications with the San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance Department which manage CalFresh, with the consent of the students.

The urgency of this initiative is highlighted by findings from the California Student Aid Commission, which estimates that nearly 181,000 college students in Riverside and San Bernardino counties are at risk of facing hunger without CalFresh support. San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. reflected on his connection to the cause, stating, “As someone who has studied at both Valley College and CSUSB, I know the impact of food insecurity first-hand. With today’s economic pressures and high costs, addressing student hunger is more crucial than ever. This partnership is about removing barriers to education by ensuring no student goes hungry.”

SBCCD Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez emphasized the broader impact, noting, “Investing in student nutrition is investing in our local economy. Ensuring that students have consistent access to food not only boosts their academic performance but also prepares a stronger, more capable workforce for the future.”

CSUSB President Tomás D. Morales highlighted the critical link between nutrition and learning, saying, “Hungry students cannot effectively pursue their educational goals. CSUSB is proud to participate in the CalFresh Program as it directly supports our students’ well-being and academic success. This data-sharing initiative will help us reach more eligible students and maintain our support throughout their educational journey.”

The MOU is officially effective and will expire on Dec. 18, 2028. CalFresh’s website describes the program as “for people with low income who meet federal income eligibility rules and want to add to their budget to put healthy and nutritious food on the table.”

By Lila Brown | California Black Media

On April 8, U.S. Congressmember Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37) moderated a roundtable focused on Los Angeles Unified School District’s (LAUSD) strategies to improve Black student performance in classrooms.

Kamlager-Dove, who represents a district that covers parts of Los Angeles County, hopes that ideas shared at the event can be incorporated into models that can impact other regions across California, where Black students continue to fall behind their peers of other races and ethnicities.

Discussions at the event centered on LAUSD’s Black Student Achievement Plan (BSAP) and other educational initiatives aimed at enhancing learning and boosting test scores.

“The Black Student Achievement Plan is unique in that it takes a community-centered approach to uplifting Black students,” said Kamlager-Dove during the event held at John Muir Middle School in Los Angeles.

“We must implement culturally responsive education in the classroom to challenge our students academically while giving them a sense of purpose,” she continued.

In 2023, nearly 70% of Black children in California fell below a passing mark on the state standardized English Language Arts exam, and only about 20% of those students were performing at grade level based on their scores on the math assessment test.

A variety of public education experts joined Kamlager on the panel, including Dr. Kortne Edogun-Ticey, Senior Advisor, U.S. Department of Education; Dr. Robert Whitman, Educational Transformation Officer at LAUSD; Dr. Pedro Noguera, Professor and Dean at the University of Southern California Rossier School of Education; and Keith Linton, founder of the non-profit Boys to Gentlemen.

Jonathan McGee, a student who sits on the BSAP Student Advisory Council, also spoke during the panel.

Representatives from the office of Los Angeles Unified Board of Education Member Dr. George J. McKenna III, and Alberto M. Carvalho, Superintendent of LAUSD, also attended the event.

The BSAP was approved by the LAUSD Board of Education in February of the 2020-21 school year. Funds have been earmarked to address the longstanding disparities in educational outcomes between Black students and their non-Black peers. Dating back to the landmark case, Brown v. the Board of Education of Topeka, Kan., in which the U.S. Supreme Court declared that segregated schools were unconstitutional, positive outcomes for Black students continue to lag behind district and national averages for their non-Black counterparts.

Edogun-Ticey spoke about broader investments the federal government is making in education that directly impact Black students through The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans.

‘This administration did not shy away from the idea that we need resources for support which means billions of dollars in investment for HBCUs,” she explained.

“We know that about $2 billion for the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), but how many are aware of what those dollars do for student mental health,” Edogun-Ticey added.

In 2023, LAUSD expanded the BSAP Program by $26 million, demonstrating the district’s commitment to improving education for Black students, who are the lowest-performing subgroup of students in the state, only ahead of students with disabilities.

BSAP strategies include partnering with Black families and local community; supporting the implementation of culturally and linguistically responsive and anti-racist practices; offering wrap-around support structures; and highlighting experiences that uplift the contributions of the Black community as motivation and models to develop positive Black student identity. Additionally, the BSAP provides increased staffing to support Black students’ academic and social-emotional needs.

“School districts across the country must push back against attacks on marginalized students by implementing programs like the BSAP, which should serve as a model for future initiatives,” Kamlager said.

February Outstanding Achievement Awards Recognize District Students, Parents and Staff

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- In Feb., the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Lincoln and North Park Elementary Schools, Rodriguez PREP Academy Middle School and Arroyo Valley High School (AVHS).

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship, and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the district’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Lincoln Elementary School, Principal Dr. Heather Regalado:

Malachi Boyd is a fifth-grader and Outstanding Student. Boyd has shown tremendous growth in reading through his consistent perseverance. He now enjoys learning new words and takes pride in the fact he can read words he couldn’t read before. Boyd wants to become a professional football player.

Abraham Lopez Torres is a dual-immersion third-grader and Outstanding Student. Torres is an English Learner who has worked hard to learn his letter names and sounds in both languages and is now reading in Spanish and speaking English. Torres wants to become a fisherman because he loves the ocean.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Diana Alvarez is dedicated to increasing family engagement opportunities at Lincoln. She has led the work for the fall festival and the Dr. Seuss Literacy event. Alvarez is also an important member of the School Site Council.

Senior Recreation Leader Lucila “Lucy” Garcia makes sure Lincoln is a safe place for students when they are on the playground and in the cafeteria. She is always moving and provides active supervision at all times. She is a great model for the Rec. Aide team.

In one short year, Counselor Ariceli Rodriguez has been able to immerse herself into the culture and bring joy and happiness to students and staff. She uses every opportunity available to help students learn anti-bullying strategies and how to regulate themselves.

North Park Elementary School, Principal Heather Bjornberg:

Samantha Cooley is a third-grader and Outstanding Student. She excels in reading, writing and math. She puts her best effort into completing class assignments and shows attention to detail in her work. She is responsible and displays strong leadership skills. Cooley wants to find a career where she can ride horses professionally.

Elyjah Moore is a sixth-grader and Outstanding Student. Moore is a model scholar. He is usually the first to take the lead in group discussions and contribute and share ideas. He is dependable and is willing to help classmates and teachers. Moore’s dream is to attend USC to pursue an athletic career in baseball, and also pursue a career in law enforcement.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Stevie Young’s tireless efforts in creating a nurturing and conducive learning environment do not go unnoticed. Staff members are deeply thankful for her willingness to lend a helping hand, whether it’s through volunteering in classrooms, assisting with extracurricular activities or supporting other events.

Secretary II Darlene Peters is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Peters is instrumental to North Park. She has demonstrated unwavering dedication and exceptional kindness and professionalism to scholars and families, resulting in significant contributions to the betterment of the school.

Program Facilitator Heidi McQueen demonstrates qualities such as attention to detail, timeliness, effective communication, professionalism and adaptability. She not only ensures the quality of her work, but also fosters an environment of trust, collaboration and continuous growth and innovation.

Rodriguez Prep Academy Middle School, Principal Kathy Atencio:

Eighth-grader Aalana Jackson is an Outstanding Student. Jackson’s contributions to her school and community showcase her as a role model for her peers, embodying the qualities of a true scholar and citizen. Jackson aspires to enroll at Howard University and pursue a career path in veterinary medicine.

Blake Marquez is an eighth-grader and Outstanding Student. Marquez’s efforts have not only resulted in significant academic growth but have also demonstrated responsibility, respect and integrity within the school community. His positive attitude, hard work and perseverance will serve him well in his future as a computer engineer.

Lucia Hernandez Noriega is an Outstanding Parent. She is an invaluable member of our parent leadership team, where her insights, input and commitment greatly enhance the school’s collaborative efforts. Her unwavering support and active participation in community initiatives underscore her genuine commitment to promoting the educational welfare of students.

Custodian I Leticia Villalpando is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Villalpando is emotionally committed to the school’s success, striving to make it the pride of the neighborhood. She possesses a positive passion for fostering strong relationships with students, and her dedication to service is consistently exceptional.

Seventh-grade Teacher Abigail Tejada is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Tejada is deeply committed to the academic growth and well-being of her students. Her approach is holistic, focusing on the whole student, not just their academic performance. Her dedication to her students’ success is evident in her inclusive learning environment.

Arroyo Valley High School (AVHS), Principal Manuel Gonzalez:

Brianna Hernandez is a sophomore and an Outstanding Student. Hernandez actively works toward finding solutions and gaining new knowledge. She is a very principled student who is willing to take on student leadership positions. She would love to pursue a career in physical therapy, dentistry or teaching biology.

Senior Yaretzi Medina-Hernandez is an Outstanding Student. Known for her outstanding citizenship, Medina-Hernandez contributes to a positive and inclusive school environment. In addition to maintaining high academic standards in her rigorous courses, she is a dedicated member of the school orchestra. She has plans to study music and dance at the collegiate level.

Yadira Contreras is an Outstanding AVHS parent who has truly made a significant impact on her child’s education and the entire school community. She not only prioritizes her child’s education but also advocates for the well-being and academic success of all students.

Juanita Loya is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Loya is a dedicated Campus Security Officer II whose commitment to the betterment of students is truly exceptional. Loya not only possesses high standards for security protocols but also goes above and beyond to establish a positive rapport with students.

Linked Learning Program Specialist and CTE Department Chair Dimitri Chronopoulos is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Serving as a visionary leader, Chronopoulos’s commitment is evident in his instrumental role in developing top-notch Career and Technical Education(CTE) pathways, offering students invaluable opportunities for skill development and real-world preparedness.

About San Bernardino City Unified School District:

The San Bernardino City Unified School District is California’s eighth-largest school district and is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares more than 46,000 students for college, career and life. With a focus on equity, excellence and empowerment, the District serves a diverse student population in the San Bernardino and Highland communities.

VICTORVILLE, CA—- The Queendom Awards, an esteemed annual event recognizing the exceptional contributions of women in the High Desert community, is thrilled to announce its second edition, set to take place on Mother’s Day Weekend, Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the Holiday Inn in Victorville, CA, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Queendom Awards celebrate the leadership, philanthropy, and commitment of extraordinary women whose work has made a profound impact on the community. This year’s esteemed honorees include Regina Bell, Founder Of D.V.L PROJECT; 1st Lady Lorrie Denson of The Burning Bush Baptist Church; Leslie Irvin, City Councilwoman, Victorville CA; Pastor Kashmier Hayes, Epiphany Meeting Destiny; and Sylvia Romo, 2023 Women of Excellence Award Recipient. These exceptional women have demonstrated unwavering dedication to empowering others and fostering a positive change in the HIGH DESERT and beyond.

The event is made possible through the generous support of our community sponsors, including Victorville Motors, The High Desert Sports Association, K.I.C.K.S KAFE, Congressional Candidate Derek Marshall, and more. Their commitment to recognizing and honoring the achievements of women in our community is invaluable and deeply appreciated.

The evening promises to be a memorable occasion, featuring a glamorous Red-Carpet Network, followed by a sumptuous dinner sponsored and served by POPPA’S KITCHEN. Members of the media are cordially invited to participate in the Red-Carpet Network and capture the excitement of this special event.

“We are thrilled to host the 2nd Annual Queendom Awards and shine a spotlight on these remarkable women who have made significant contributions to our community,” said Justified Smith, Founder of FATHERS IN HIP HOP. “Their dedication, leadership, and resilience inspire us all, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements on this special evening.”

For sponsorship opportunities, or to RSVP for the event, please contact: Event Producer, Brittany Tinna White at (909-684-1330) or tuproductions3@gmail.com.

About the Queendom Awards: The Queendom Awards are an annual event that honors exceptional women in the High Desert community who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. The awards seek to celebrate and empower women from diverse backgrounds and industries, recognizing their achievements and inspiring future generations.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Seven distinguished young men were presented to society on Saturday, March 30th, 2024, at the beautiful campus of California State University. Sir Knight 2004 Raafi Bell teacher and principle of Hardy Brown College Prep was the Master of Ceremony.

The 57th Annual Beautillion Ball which was no disappointment to a packed house of spectators as each young man was introduced along with their courts. Elegance, excitement, and suspense were thick in the air as the Knights and their courts performed dances with precession for their guests. The Keynote speaker was Dr. Jerrold N. Thompson, Sr., Senior Pastor of San Bernardino Community SDA Church – where he spoke on our theme of “Your Moment of Greatness” and shared his personal examples on the theme.

The Social Lites honored Wallace Allen of Westside Story / Talk Back, Michael Davis, Alton Garrett – Garrett Management Group, Dr. Danielle Osonduagwuike, Tina Darling, Councilman Damon Alexander and SBVC Aeronautics Department of Valley College with service awards for their unselfish act of pouring into our young men through the last 6 months with their various workshops and activities.

In full force our representatives from the federal, state, county and local government were present which included our Congressional Representative Pete Aguilar of the 33rd District, James Ramos California State Assembly representing District 45th office, Assembly member Eloise Gomez-Reyes representing the 50th California Assembly District, Joe Baca Jr. San Bernardino County 5th District, Dr. Gwen Dowdy Rodgers, San Bernardino of the County of School Board and Damon Alexander of the 7th Ward of the City of San Bernardino and Felicia Alexander, San Bernardino City Unified School District Trustee and Social Lite member who presented our Knights with certificates and witnessed the affair.

Our Successful Well Accomplished Gentleman (S.W.A.G.) Award for 2024 was awarded to Edward Brantley, President of the “I Am Gifted Foundation” for providing countless assistance in coaching and providing a stellar example to our young men and Chief Joseph Paulino, Chief of Police for the San Bernardino City Unified School District was awarded the Trail Blazer Award for giving back numerous years to our young men and creating a path while forging ahead for others.

The evening concluded with our crowning of Sir Knight Solomon Moore of Citrus Valley High School. As dubbed Sir Knight, he receiving over $22,500.00 in scholarships and awards for the prestigious title. This included $10,000.00 for the Social Lites, Inc. (SLI) Scholarship, $6,000.00 for the Evan T. Carthen Emerging Leadership Memorial (ETCEL) Award, $3,000 Academic Excellence Award, a $400.00 Mr. Congeniality Award and a $1,000 Travel Voucher including his countless gifts valued at over $1,800.00 for college expenses to allow him to pursue his dream to become a Civil Engineer at Tennessee State University.

Daniel Rivera, Jr., 1^st Runner- Up was awarded $8,000.00 along with $3,000 Academic Excellence Award by the (SLI) Scholarship, $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of gifts and prizes valued at over $1,800.00.

2^nd Runner-Up Syncere Brackett-Lambey was awarded $6,000.00 by the (SLI) Scholarship and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of gifts and prizes valued at over $1,950.00.

Darvion McGee was awarded the Perservance Award by the (SLI) Scholarship of $4,000.00 and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of other gifts and prizes valued at $1,500.00.

Ali Dphrepaulezz was awarded the President Award by the (SLI) Scholarship of $2,000.00 and $1,000.00 Academic Excellence Award and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of other gifts and prizes valued over $1,700.00.

Frank Cox III was awarded the Social Lites Award of $1,500.00, $1,000.00 Academic Excellence Award, $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award and along with a host of other gifts and prizes valued at over $1,100.00.

Destyn Maurice was awarded by the (SLI) Scholarship of $8,000.00 for the Alumni Award and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with other gifts and prizes valued at over $1,100.00.

Each young man received a host of Resolutions and Proclamations by local mayors and dignitaries.

As we conclude our ceremonial event, our work is NOT over. With your help, we are seeking our next African American and brown young men to set on the path toward higher levels through their education. The Social Lites program is a non-profit (501c3) program that created the Beautillion Program. It was started in the Inland Empire out of concern for the future and survival of the young black and brown men in the community in which they live and serve. This program is designed to help young men who are seniors in high school prepare for college through the solicitation of ads, leadership development, accountability, responsibility, etiquette, attire for all occasions, spiritual growth, publics peaking, and community service.

If you know any young men 6 years old to their 1st year in college who aspire to improve with their educational aspirations. Please reach out to us so that we can bring them into the program. If you would like to donate to our cause, we appreciate all contributions. To date, we have we have given out approximately 3.5 million dollars in scholarships to our college bound young men.

For more information, please call President, Sheri Lewis at (909) 320-0799 or publicity chairperson, Marlene Davis at (909) 709-5502

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- Time for Change Foundation’s (TFCF) 22nd Annual Awards Gala will honor outstanding individuals and organizations that go above and beyond for our communities and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

Kellie Todd Griffin is a dynamic leader with a rich history of driving change and empowering communities across California. With an impressive portfolio spanning 25 years, Kellie has made significant strides in community engagement, strategy development, and social impact initiatives.

As the President and CEO of the California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute, Kellie oversees transformative programs such as the CA Black Women’s Think Tank at California State University, Dominguez Hills. Her experience in healthcare leadership has earned her recognition as a champion for healthcare equity, culminating in her receipt of the Los Angeles County Woman of the Year award.

Kellie’s dedication to political advocacy and community organizing is evident in her leadership of initiatives like CA African Americans for Obama, which she co-chaired alongside prominent figures like Karen Bass and Kamala Harris.

Kellie channels her expertise in public affairs, communications, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to empower nonprofits, government entities, and corporations. Her entrepreneurial spirit is further demonstrated through her founding of organizations such as Sistallect, Inc. and the California Black Women and Girls Social and Economic Impact Fund.

“Kellie Todd Griffin’s unwavering dedication to community empowerment and social justice serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of collaborating with her,” said Kim Carter-Tillman, Founder/Ambassador of Time for Change Foundation, “She is truly an inspiration to all women!”

Other Award Honorees include:

Bobby Wagner, football player of the NFL, with the Philanthropist of the Year Award; Rev. George Lamb at F.A.C.C.T with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Rita (Faridah) Ali from We 2 Matter with the Humanitarian Award; Dawn Downs to receive the Businesswoman of the Year Award; Laurena Bolden at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians with the Community Champion Award; Pastor Craig Hadley from Paradox Church with the Nancy Varner Angel Award; and Rialto ROTC with the Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award.

Time for Change Foundation’s 22^nd Annual Awards Gala will be held on Friday, April 19th, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California at 6:00 p.m. PST. To support the work of Time for Change Foundation, you can become a sponsor, purchase an ad in the event program book, or purchase a Gala ticket.

To register for the event or to become a sponsor and increase your business’s visibility in the community, please visit our website at www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org, or contact Florence White at (909) 886-2994 or by email at fwhite@timeforchangefoundation.org.

Delia Jimenez Cioc was appointed as the first female Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. Jimenez Cioc offers a deep understanding of agricultural practices, environmental protection, consumer protection, and weights and measures regulations to her new role after nearly two decades within Riverside County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office.

Jimenez Cioc began her journey with the Riverside County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in 2004 after graduating from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Biology. Over the years, she has showcased exemplary dedication and leadership in various capacities within the department.

“We are pleased to welcome Delia as the new Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Weights and Measures,” expressed Board Chair Chuck Washington, Third District. “With a true passion for agriculture and public service, we look forward to working closely with her to support and innovate the county’s agricultural sector.”

Throughout her tenure, Jimenez Cioc has held pivotal roles, including Supervising Agricultural and Standards Investigator, Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, and most recently, Assistant Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer. In these positions, she has overseen critical aspects of departmental operations, including managing substantial budgets, supervising personnel, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Jimenez Cioc holds a Master of Public Administration from California Baptist University, further enhancing her ability to serve the community effectively.

“As the new Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer of Riverside County, I remain committed to promoting and protecting our agriculture, the environment, and the residents of our beautiful and diverse county while upholding equity in the marketplace,” said Jimenez Cioc.

Jimenez Cioc’s passion for agriculture dates back to her childhood, where she was surrounded by fields of wheat, corn, grapevines, and sunflowers. This early connection to farming instilled in her a profound appreciation for the industry, which she continues to nurture through her personal and professional endeavors. Outside of work, she enjoys cultivating fruits and vegetables in her backyard and exploring different cuisines and cultures during her travels.

In her new role, Jimenez Cioc assumes leadership of more than 50 employees tasked with upholding the functions of Riverside County’s Agricultural Commissioner’s Office in service to the community. This appointment follows the retirement of the former Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, Ruben Arroyo.

YUCAIPA, CA— Crafton Hills College (CHC) proudly announces Damian G. Garcia as the 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award recipient. This accolade, presented each year by the CHC Foundation, recognizes a former student who exemplifies the dynamic and positive qualities the Crafton experience can produce.

Born and raised in the Inland Empire, Garcia’s upbringing influenced his work ethic and drive early on. Despite facing challenges and being among the few Hispanic people in his community and academic career, Garcia remained committed to pursuing higher education and professional success. He was the first of his family to attend college.

“My parents, particularly my father, instilled the values of hard work, determination and perseverance,” said Garcia. “My family influenced me to always strive for success, no matter what hardships interfered with my path.”

Garcia’s higher education journey began at CHC, where he laid the foundation for his academic pursuits while balancing his personal and professional life.

“Persistence, dedication and patience are character traits I developed during my academic path,” shared Garcia. “Especially at Crafton Hills College, where I had to balance my married life, my professional career, and my academics. I believe my education and experience at Crafton helped me improve my academic skills, ultimately giving me the confidence to further my education.”

After completing his bachelor’s degree at the University of California, Riverside, Garcia attained a Master of Business Administration at the University of Redlands, followed by a law degree from the University of La Verne.

Garcia’s commitment to justice and diversity inspired him to become an attorney and eventually serve as a judge. Recognizing the lack of diversity in the judiciary, he pursued a legal career with a vision to effect positive change in his community.

“I have a passion for the law and justice. I believe I offered a unique and effective balance of passion to serve, passion for the law and passion for justice,” said Garcia. “I believe the diversity of the judiciary should reflect the diversity of the population they serve.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Garcia remains committed to mentoring and inspiring the next generation.

He has spoken to groups of at-risk and underrepresented high school and middle school students in the Redlands Unified School District and Perris Union High School District about success and his journey to become an attorney. He has also mentored students at the University of Redlands and the University of La Verne College of Law.

“I intend to continue to motivate and inspire the youth in my community,” Garcia expressed. “Our children have been under significant stress and anxiety because of recent societal events, including the pandemic. The mental health of society, and particularly our youth, needs significant attention to ensure a healthy and productive future.”

Garcia will be honored with the Outstanding Alumni Award at the CHC Foundation Fundraiser/Gala on Thursday, April 18.

LOS ANGELES, CA—- When veteran entertainment industry publicist Makeda Smith began pole dancing as a fitness hobby, over 12 years ago, she had no idea it would morph into a life changing journey.  The 63-year-old grandmother, who has received international notoriety for her dance flow movement practice, Flying Over 50, has announced a brand expansion during Women’s History Month.  Makeda is releasing her first book, “Flying Over 50 at Any Age, A 30-Day Self Journal for Speeding Past Limitations” on April 5, National Self Care Day.  In addition, she has also launched an online wellness portal, The Makeda Method, offering healing breathwork sessions, deep stretch yoga classes, and dance flow movement lessons, all targeted for maturing seniors.

“Flying Over 50 at Any Age, A 30-Day Self Journal for Speeding Past Limitations” is an encouraging guide for navigating through life’s many holding patterns.  The author offers daily motivation and wisdom through introspection about her life while prompting the reader to write and reflect on their own journey.  By the end of the book, readers will hopefully find themselves renewed, invigorated, and ready to ‘Fly Over 50,’ soaring past societal and self-imposed speed limits.

“When I turned 50 over a decade ago, I was at one of the lowest points in my life.  The market had crashed, and I literally lost everything – but through it all, I found myself. I discovered that life doesn’t end at 50, but it does take on new responsibility.  Diving into fitness not only saved my life, but it also positioned me in the current pro-aging movement and garnered me the profound understanding that aging is one of the most powerful celebrations of living a long life,” expresses Makeda. “My book, ‘Flying Over 50 at Any Age’ and my new wellness portal, The Makeda Method, are my support systems for adults who are being challenged with the many effects of what we call ‘growing old.’   Aging is a natural process, but the secret is mastering practices for mitigating the daily stress that comes with it.”

The Makeda Method’ is a culmination of wellness offerings for everyone, all ages, but particularly for individuals struggling with the anxiety of aging.  As a certified breath and stretch coach, Makeda created the online portal to help others establish their own personal routines for health and wellness. Layered with the grace of her private coaching, breathwork is taught as a mindful tool for eliminating tension and unease, while deep stretch classes enhance flexibility and mobility in the body and work to calm the mind as well.

“Embracing senior citizenship can be overwhelming.  That’s where finding a coach comes into play.  A coach can guide you with the training and tools you need to initially get started and hold you accountable for your daily practice. Eventually it all becomes secondhand and then you are fine on your own.  I’m still a busy publicist with my own PR agency, but coaching has always been a passion point for me. Now with the release of my book and wellness portal, I’m hoping to further spread the news that growing older is a divine blessing when approached with attentive self-care!” explains Makeda.

Secure your copy of “Flying Over 50 at Any Age, A 30-Day Self Journal for Speeding Past Limitations” on Amazon.com and check out The Makeda Method at www.themakedamethod.com.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Time for Change Foundation’s (TFCF) 22nd Annual Awards Gala will honor outstanding individuals and organizations that go above and beyond for our communities and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

Laurena “Lala” Bolden embodies the spirit of community and service, deeply rooted in her upbringing and family values. A proud native of Highland, CA, Laurena’s journey is intertwined with her commitment to giving back and uplifting those around her. Raised on the San Manuel Indian Reservation, Laurena learned the importance of community involvement from her mother, Alaina, and her grandparents, James & Rowena. Their dedication to serving others inspired Laurena to follow in their footsteps, becoming a beacon of hope and support in her own right.

As a devoted wife and mother of two boys, Laurena leads by example, prioritizing family values and community engagement. Her involvement in the San Manuel Tribal Council as a Councilmember and Vice Chair of the tribe’s Education Board underscores her dedication to her tribal community.

Guided by the foundational principle of “Putting God first in everything we do” and the belief in offering a “hand up” whenever possible, Laurena’s compassion knows no bounds. Her support to various youth sports’ leagues and collaboration with Loma Linda University Health reflect her commitment to promoting pediatric and behavioral health initiatives.

In the words of her grandmother, “Laurena understands the importance of paying forward the kindness and generosity she has received.”

“Laurena’s heart for the community is evident in her life. Her generosity and commitment to helping others throughout various efforts show a true community champion and we are honored to be giving her this award”, said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director.

Other Award Honorees include:

Bobby Wagner, football player of the NFL, with the Philanthropist of the Year Award; Rev. George Lamb at F.A.C.C.T with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Rita (Faridah) Ali from We 2 Matter with the Humanitarian Award; Dawn Downs to receive the Businesswoman of the Year Award; Kellie Todd Griffin at CA Black Women’s Collective with the Michelle Obama Courage Award; Pastor Craig Hadley from Paradox Church with the Nancy Varner Angel Award; and Rialto ROTC with the Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award.

Time for Change Foundation’s 22nd Annual Awards Gala will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California at 6:00 p.m. PST. To support the work of Time for Change Foundation, you can become a sponsor, purchase an ad in the event program book, or purchase a Gala ticket.

To register for the event or to become a sponsor and increase your business’s visibility in the community, please visit our website at www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org, or contact Florence White at (909) 886-2994 or by email at fwhite@timeforchangefoundation.org.