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Dr. Judy D. White

MORENO VALLEY-CA- After nearly six successful years leading Moreno Valley Unified School District to new levels of student and staff achievement, Superintendent Dr. Judy D. White has accepted an appointment as Riverside County Superintendent of Schools.

The position is an elected position, but White was appointed by the Riverside County Board of Education to finish the two remaining years of the term vacated by her predecessor, Kenneth Young.

White will begin her new assignment in February and the MVUSD School Board discussed the process for finding a new superintendent at its recent regular meeting on Tuesday January 17.

In a message to all MVUSD staff, School Board President C.J. Johnson praised both Dr. White’s accomplishments and commitment.

“It is also important to note that because of her success leading Moreno Valley Unified to new levels of achievement, Dr. White has become known statewide, and has regularly been approached with attractive offers to lead other school districts across our state, all of which she declined in favor of her commitment to the students of our community,” Johnson said.

“It is telling that the only position she finally was willing to consider is one through which she can continue to serve Moreno Valley students and staff.”

 Prior to her appointment in Moreno Valley, she served as Deputy Superintendent for San Bernardino City Unified School District. Dr. White has served as teacher, assistant principal, principal, Special Education director, assistant superintendent for Educational Services, and deputy superintendent for Program Improvement, Curriculum/Instruction and Accountability & Research. She has also served as an adjunct professor at Azusa Pacific University and Aenon Bible College.

 The Riverside County Office of Education provides a variety of support services for all 23 school districts in the county.

By Naomi K. Bonman

LOS ANGELES, CA- On Saturday, January 21 in Downtown Los Angeles, women from all over the Southern California region came together to march for one prime reason—unity and equality.

Women fought for their rights of equality in the past and felt the need to do it again after the inauguration of the 45^th President Donald Trump took place on Friday, January 21. Prior to Trump taking oath as the nation’s president, he had made countless racist and sexist remarks against minorities and women.

Prior to the march, President Trump altered the White House website with the removal of the LGBT rights. The Civil Rights page has also been replaced with a protecting our law enforcement page. The site is now only available in English and can no longer be accessed in Spanish. These are just a few events that prompted the Womens’ March across the Nation.

The mission of the Women’s March is for women to stand together in solidarity for the protection of women’s rights, safety, health, and their families by recognizing that their vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of the country.

As seen in marches from city to city, the Women’s March brought diversity within all ethnic backgrounds, as well as from the male gender. Everyone came together in the spirit of democracy and to honor the champions if human rights, dignity, and justice of past times.

The march was the first step towards unifying the community, forming new relationships, and creating change from the grassroots level up. Women’s March works peacefully while recognizing there is no true peace without justice and equity for all.

To keep up with Women’s March LA, follow them on Instagram @womensmarchla.

Edited and Re-written by Naomi K. Bonman

LOS ANGELES, CA- This year marked the 32^nd annual Kingdom Day Parade which was held on Monday, January 16 in South Los Angeles. Each year the parade brings our dignitaries to help honor the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr.

Groups that participated in the 2017 Kingdom Day Parade included a New Orleans-style brass band with dancers from the Los Angeles Korean Dance Academy. The 200,000 people crowd loved the band. The band also brought in more diversity to the celebration, something that King would be pleased to see and fought for.

One thing that was different and brought to light during this year’s parade was the impending inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, which had the focus of some officials’ attention on how they would push back against the new administration’s policies and decisions. Others referenced the parade’s theme: “Now more than ever, we all must work together.”

“We are confronting a dichotomy of democracy — something that is unique in our history,” state Senate leader Kevin de León (D-Los Angeles) said at a breakfast before the parade. “More than ever, California must remain a beacon of hope and opportunity in an uncertain world.”

He continued, “California will never appease anyone who seeks to undermine our economic prosperity and fundamental human rights.”

Los Angeles County health workers, including nurses and technicians, marched in protest of a possible repeal of the Affordable Care Act, President Obama’s landmark healthcare legislation. And L.A. County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas marched with them, holding a sign that read, “Obamacare Works.” 

Other groups celebrating at the parade Monday included representatives from local labor unions and law enforcement agencies, as well as high school marching bands and the Omega Psi Phi fraternity — the first predominately black fraternity to be founded at a historically black university. Another float, sponsored by Denny’s and adorned in gold and green tinsel, displayed a large photo of the slain civil rights leader. 

“We stand with him, and with the community, in trying to support all the things that he stood for,” Ronald Smothers, who owns a Denny’s restaurant on Crenshaw Boulevard, said in an interview with ABC 7. 

By Naomi K. Bonman

Many of us watched, and probably got emotional, our 44^th President Barack Obama’s farewell address on Tuesday, January 10. Can you believe 8 years flew by!

The quote that struck out the most in Obama’s address was this one: “I am asking you to hold fast to that faith written into our founding documents; that idea whispered by slaves and abolitionists; that spirit sung by immigrants and homesteaders and those who marched for justice; that creed reaffirmed by those who planted flags from foreign battlefields to the surface of the moon; a creed at the core of every American whose story is not yet written: Yes, we can.” -President Barack Obama

Many of us watched, and probably got emotional, our 44th President Barack Obama’s farewell address on Tuesday, January 10. Can you believe 8 years flew by! The quote that struck out the most in Obama’s address was this one: “I am asking you to hold fast to that faith written into our founding documents; that idea whispered by slaves and abolitionists; that spirit sung by immigrants and homesteaders and those who marched for justice; that creed reaffirmed by those who planted flags from foreign battlefields to the surface of the moon; a creed at the core of every American whose story is not yet written: Yes, we can.” -President Barack Obama We have watched the girls, Malia and Sasha, grow up into beautiful and sophisticated young women. We have also watched in admiration of the chemistry and commitment that Michelle and Barack have towards one another. And as a country, although we still have a lot more to accomplish, we have seen countless accomplishments made by President Obama and his administration. More jobs gave been created that has brought the economy back to a much stable state, and millions of Americans now have affordable healthcare. I commend Barack for all his hard work and for staying strong and grounded with every racist and prejudice remark that was thrown against him. He proved the odds, that yes a Black man can become President or any other profession that others may try to deny him. Barack, Michelle, Sasha, and Malia…you all will be sincerely missed. have watched the girls, Malia and Sasha, grow up into beautiful and sophisticated young women. We have also watched in admiration of the chemistry and commitment that Michelle and Barack have towards one another. And as a country, although we still have a lot more to accomplish, we have seen countless accomplishments made by President Obama and his administration.

More jobs gave been created that has brought the economy back to a much stable state, and millions of Americans now have affordable healthcare.

I commend Barack for all his hard work and for staying strong and grounded with every racist and prejudice remark that was thrown against him. He proved the odds, that yes a Black man can become President or any other profession that others may try to deny him.

Barack, Michelle, Sasha, and Malia…you all will be sincerely missed.

RIALTO, CA– The Mu Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., in collaboration with the Eta Nu Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., partner with the Riverside Unified School District to present the 28^th Annual Oratorical Contest, being held at Central Middle School in Riverside, on Saturday, February 4, 2017, beginning at 9 a.m.

The aim of the contest is to give area students an opportunity to showcase their speech writing, and oral delivery talents for distinguished guests, family, friends, and community leaders. The event is open to any student in grades 1 through 12. Participants are grouped into 3 grade groups, and three cash awards are presented in each group.

Deadline for applications to be received is January 26, 2017. Due to initial expressed interest, participation will be limited. Students interested in competing are urged to submit an application early. Speeches do NOT have to be completed, to submit an application.

For information on the contest, or to request an application, contact Mr. Kevin Eastman at: eastke1@yahoo.com, or Mrs. Samantha Dotson at: samantha.dotson524@gmail.com. All Riverside Unified School District students should contact Dr. Keyisha Holmes for information: kholmes@rusd.k12.ca.us.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., are community service organizations that service the Inland Empire, by providing mentoring programs for adolescents, and are in involved in numerous social activities and causes through the Inland Empire.

For more information on Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, visit: www.apa1906.net. For more information on Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, visit: www.aka1908.com. Information on the Riverside Unified School District may be found on the district web page: www.rusdlink.org.

ONTARIO, CA- Ms. Trudy Coleman and the Juneteenth/MLK Committee of Southern California, invites you to attend the “16th Annual, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast and Tribute”. This event has become an Inland Empire Tradition; bringing together many of the areas citizens as well as Civic and Political figures, such as Senators, Mayors, Assembly Members and many in the Business and Religious Communities. We are also grateful for our area Sheriff, Police and Fire Departments who have been long time supporters and attendees. Each year, we also honor our MLK Lifetime Achievement Recipient and our MLK Civil Rights Recipient.

We wish to give our sincere heart felt remembrance to the families of San Bernardino, who lost love ones, and the heroic police department who help to save lives.   Also to the families of officers and citizens who lives have been shorten over these last two years. As we know, Freedom fighters come in all forms and shapes, today, yesterday, and tomorrow. As, we continue to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King’s vision of Freedom, Justice and Equality for African American’s and all Americans.

The visions of both Dr. King and President, Abraham Lincoln targeted one purpose. “To Bring Our Nation Together As A Unified Force For The Good Of The World”. For the past 16 years, we have been bringing people of every nationality together in keeping with the spirit of “The Dream”. This year features a mass choir comprised of singers from several Inland Empire Choirs, Mt. Zion Baptist church, Mt. Sinai C.O.G.I.C., New Direction C.O.G.I.C., and Blended Sounds of Joy. Our special guest artist is, “Patrice Morris”. Patrice has formerly song with the world renown “Fifth Dimension”. She has also ministered in song with many prominent gospel artists, including Daryl Coley, Andrae’ and Sandra Crouch, Marvin Sapp, and John P. Kee. Our second guest artist is Ms. Biddy Newborn, Directress for “Gospel Great”, Shirley Ceasar. She is internationally known, and is also a gospel recording artist. The Lord has truly anointed her in singing, preaching, and most of all directing, which has touched the lives of people of all ages. There will also be a special keynote speaker on program. Each year we have also included the MLK Student essay contest and give scholarships to the winner.

After the program, included for ticket holders only, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. are the Educational and Economic Workshops on topics ranging from “How to Retire Successfully”, “Designing Your Own Most Profitable Year”, and always the “Youth Mentoring – Advocacy Lawmakers Fellowship Program”. The day will also highlight many of the areas small business vendors who will display their products on that day, and gift raffles. This will be a momentous occasion and you will be greatly enriched by being present when it all happens.      

Junteenth Education Technology Mobile Arts Center, Inc., is a non-profit organization dedicated to educate and raise public awareness. among all Americans about Juneteenth (June 19, 1865)” and its significance as the foundation that completes FREEDOM for all American people. There are two events done yearly. 1) The Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Unity Breakfast, Ontario, Ca; On June 17^th, 2017, will be the “26^th yr. Pomona Valley Juneteenth Family Jazz Arts Festival”, the Juneteenth event is always free for the public.

The MLK Breakfast on “King Day” is open to the public, ALL are welcome.   Ticket cost is $36.00 in Advance, $40.00 at the Door, $50.00 VIP ticket, Table of (10) $324.00, VIP Table $500.00. Students cost is $20.00. Please RSVP for your reserved seat. Sponsorship Opportunities are available, appreciated, and tax-deductible. Advertisement for program book are still available until January 9, 2017. For information Call: Trudy Coleman 1-909-418-8530/1-909-681-3554/ To purchase tickets, visit www.jetmacinc.us or eventbite.com, www.jetmacinc.com/Email:trudycoleman@jetmainc.com

By Earl Heath 

The 128th Edition of the Tournament of Roses was a rare on in that it took place on Monday January 2 and the temperature (40 degrees) were closer to that of New England ‘s winter Day than that of a  Pasadena afternoon. Some million or so peopled lined the streets of Pasadena

“Never on Sunday” was the call by the for this year New Year’s day fell on a Sunday and with keeping with Tradition of the Founding Fathers. They believed Sunday to be a day for family and worship. Its theme “Echos of Success “ found a way through some 41 floats, 19 marching Bands and 20 equestrian units.

The three Grand Marshalls Olympians Allyson Felix, Greg Louganis and Janet Evans all had success during their careers. Thus there could not be a better trio for the theme.

RIALTO, CA – The San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees elected officers for its 2017-18 academic year at its annual organizational meeting last week. Representing District 2 (Rialto and Muscoy) Trustee Joseph Williams was elected to serve his first term as President of the Board of Trustees.

“It is an honor to be selected by fellow Governing Board Members to serve as President and I’m humbled of the opportunity to help continue fostering a community college that embraces diversity and provides a world-class education to prepare our future Inland Empire workforce,” said Joseph Williams. “I am excited about this opportunity and I am most interested increasing student success. It’s my desire to see textbooks become more affordable; increase the number of people with at least a middle skill credential and ensuring our tax dollars are spent on academic initiatives and infrastructure that will continue making our colleges the jewel of the Inland Empire.”

?Joseph Williams was appointed to fill a Board of Trustees vacancy in 2013 and then elected to the position in November, 2014.

As Founder and CEO of the Youth Action Project (YAP), Joseph Williams has served youth and adults of the Inland Empire for nearly two decades. YAP empowers youth and young adults in development of the skills and habits needed for economic and social success. YAP integrates youth popular culture in its program to engage positive dialogue, decision-making, and actions that will improve educational and workforce outcomes.
?Prior to founding YAP, Joseph Williams was employed with the County of San Bernardino for nine years, working for the Department of Behavioral Health, the Workforce Development Department and the Sheriff’s Department.

He currently serves as a Executive member of the California Workforce Develop Board and the California Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, and the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board.

Joseph served as the SBCCD Student Trustee when he was a college student, has Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and is currently completing a Masters of Arts in Social Impact from Claremont Lincoln University.

To learn more about Joseph Williams, visit www.josephrwilliams.com

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VICTORVILLE, CA- The High Desert Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will host a Kwanzaa Celebration on Saturday December 17.  The celebration will be at Victor Valley College downstairs in the Student Activities Center from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.  This event is for all ages and free to the public.  Come learn about Kwanza and participate in this event.
The Alumnae Chapter will also sponsor the 11th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Peace March Monday January 16, 2017.  The location is the corner of Seneca Rd. and Civic Drive in Victorville (Victorville Courthouse).  The March begins at 10 a.m.  This event is free and open to the public.
For more information on both events, call 760-951-0680 or 760-240-7147.