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Tanai Smithholding up her Crown Me Lip Balm. (Photo Credit: Tana Phelice)

By Naomi K. Bonman

Back in the day, as kids growing up, we were taught to do good in school, go to college, and then get a good job. However, those times have drastically changed. As more Generation X adults and Millennials are becoming more successful in their entrepreneurial endeavors and jumping ship from their corporate and day jobs, they are instilling in their children at a young age to claim their destinies and to make their side hustles work for them now verses later so that they will be well-off by the time they reach adulthood.

This is the case for 11-year-old Tanai Smith, daughter of San Bernardino native, author, and playwright T’ana Phelice. Smith will be launching her Crown Me Lip Balm on Monday, October 16. She was inspired to make Crown Me Lip Balm after she had made three ingredients for lip balms in her own spare time, so she decided why not make it into a profitable business.

“I researched how to make people’s skin feel smooth in a healthy way,” Smith stated on what made her decide to make an organic lip balm company over just any lip balm.

She has always been creative and has been heavily into arts and crafts. For her birthday this past August, her parents threw her an arts and crafts party.

“I see myself owning my own arts and crats store when I’m older,” she explains. “I want my Crown Me business inside my future store. I also want to play my clarinet.”

There is nothing better than when our youth are determined about what they want to do after childhood and are working diligently in achieving those tasks to ensure that their futures will be bright. This is also the aftermath of great parenting.

Smith stated that her parents are both her inspirations in achieving greatness. One of the most memorable lessons that they have taught her about entrepreneurship is that sometimes you must adjust to changes and make sacrifices.

For those interested in purchasing Crown Me Lip Balm, please visit www.tanaphelice.com/crownme and be sure to keep up with the Crown Me brand on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CrownMeOrganicStuff.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- On Saturday, October 14, Omnitrans will hold its 2nd Annual Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest at the San Bernardino Transit Center (SBTC) featuring cash prizes for artists, refreshments, live music, and promotional giveaways.

“We are building on the success of our 2016 contest which attracted 15 contestants and over 100 spectators,” said Omnitrans spokesperson Wendy Williams. “We love to see the transit center serve as a community gathering place along with being a regional transportation hub.  We invite the community out to experience both the transit center and the talents of local artists.”

The transit center, which opened in September 2015, is located at the southwest corner of Rialto Avenue and E Street in downtown San Bernardino. Over 5,000 passengers pass through the SBTC each weekday, making connections with 14 Omnitrans bus routes including the sbX green line.  The multimodal hub also provides connections to routes operated by Mountain Transit, Victor Valley Transit Authority and Pass Transit. Metrolink service will be extended to the site later this year. Riverside Transit Agency will offer a connection in January 2018.

The theme for the 2017 sidewalk chalk art contest is “Connecting our Community.” Prizes of $300, $150 and $100 will be awarded for first, second and third place in the adult category. All children 13 and under who participate will receive a prize. Omnitrans will provide live music, promotional goodies and refreshments for all in attendance.

A LEED Gold facility, SBTC offers an indoor, climate-controlled lobby with public restrooms, drinking fountains, and customer service desk, plus shaded outdoor waiting areas and digital bus arrival signs. Some of the “green” features include solar rooftop panels, sustainable greenery, high tech heating and cooling systems and water-saving drinking fountains. 

For more information, please visit www.omnitrans.org.

Zandra Cunningham, the founder and CEO of Zandra’s Beauty, an all-natural skincare line, started her company when she was just 9-years old. Now, at age 17, her Buffalo, New York-based company has more than 40 products and is worth almost $500,000.

Zandra decided to start her own company after he kept buying skincare products that would leave her skin dry and itchy. “I made it my mission to make products that smelled good and kept my skin soft without irritating it. I wanted to give girls a natural alternative to all those commercial products with yucky unhealthy ingredients,” she say.

But it wan’t easy starting a company in an already competitive industry.

A tough beginning: Zandra started making her own lip balm in the family’s home kitchen. It wasn’t as easy as she thought. She had to learn how to create formulas and use the right ingredients.

Her first attempt to sell her products at fairs and markets did not produce the results she wanted; People did not take her seriously because of her age. Even her parents were skeptical about whether their daughter was serious or just had a hobby.

Proving them wrong: Instead of accepting defeat, Zandra focused her frustration at proving them wrong.

Because of her determination and persistence, her company’s products are now in stores across America, including Paper Source and Whole Foods. Even her parents are working for the company and supporting her all the way.

Her beauty products include a line of balms for lips, cuticles, knees, and elbows, hair and body products, lotions, deodorants, and much more.

Learn more about Zandra’s Beauty by visiting their web site at www.zandrabeauty.com or follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/zandrabeauty

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Arroyo Valley High School is hosting the San Bernardino City Unified School District’s 27th Annual College Night on Thursday, September 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

College Night is open to all District students and their families. High school juniors and seniors are especially encouraged to attend. During the two-hour event, students and parents can learn about financial aid and meet with college representatives to learn about admissions requirements and course offerings.

Among the more than 70 scheduled attendees are representatives of the California State University and University of California campuses, San Bernardino Valley College, trade schools, and military recruiters.

Arroyo Valley High School clubs will be selling refreshments during the event.

College Night is one of several services the District provides to make it possible for students to pursue a post-high school education.

The San Bernardino Community Scholarship Association, with assistance from the District’s Communications/Community Relations Department, works with local individuals and businesses to offer hundreds of college scholarships to District graduates. The District’s Class of 2017 earned more than $8 million in college scholarships, including 10 military academy appointments.

District high schools provide challenging, college-level coursework through Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes. The classes prepare students for the rigors of college and the related A.P. and IB tests, for which students can earn college credit. IB courses are offered at Cajon and Arroyo Valley High Schools.

Middle College High School, in a collaborative effort with San Bernardino Valley College, allows enrolled students to take both high school and college courses with the opportunity to graduate with a diploma and associate’s degree.

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) teaches study and note-taking skills, encourages personal responsibility, and guides students on a path to college. AVID is offered at most District high schools and middle schools.

For more information about College Night, contact Arroyo Valley High College and Career readiness teacher Ann Le at (909) 381-4295, ext. 410018. AVHS is located at 1881 West Base Line Street in San Bernardino.

Parents who would like to enroll their child in AVID, AP, or IB programs should contact their child’s school.

By Angela M. Coggs

On Saturday, September 9, Young Women Empowerment Foundation (YWE) hosted their fifth Annual Women’s Wellness Conference at San Bernardino Community Hospital Henderson Auditorium. YWE invited family, friends, faith-based organizations, students and community supporters to their augural event that focused on emotional and physical health and wellness. It was a free event for women in the Inland Empire, although there were several men in attendance.

This year’s theme was Silence No More. It refers to not keeping silent regarding heart disease and domestic violence. Both areas of concern plague all people but especially minority women. The conference placed an emphasis on the prevention of heart disease as well as learning to live with and maintain if diagnosed by a physician. Additionally, domestic violence was addressed in a unique and compelling way.

Vickie Lee, Madeline Freeman and Arlington Rodgers II performed an emotional and riveting skit that centered on a real-to-life situation that happens every day behind closed doors. Lee’s performance brought many of the attendees to tears. It took the engaged audience into a deep and personal look inside a potential volatile situation. “She was so good. It seemed so real,” exclaimed Dr. Romeo Brooks, one of the keynote speaker of the conference. Brooks stated that he was so moved and impressed with the entire performance.

Brooks and YWE Board

It was an eventful and interactive conference. The women in attendance had the opportunity to participate in interactive demonstrations and hear life changing testimonials from other women on heart disease and domestic violence. 

Originally, there were three keynote speakers for the wellness conference who focus would be based on issues that are important and relevant to heart disease and domestic violence. The keynote and guest testimonial speakers were Dr. Romeo Brooks, Ph.D. (Keynote) Herbalist, Iridologist, Natural Hygienist and Naturopathic Medicine, Roots Nutrition and Melinda Cuellar, Representative Divine Connections, H.O.P.E.

Gwen and Assemblywoman Eloise Gómez Reyes

The other scheduled keynote speaker was supposed to be Joyce Fairman CEO/Founder of Hearts of Color. Regrettable, she passed prior the conference. However, as they continue to mourn the loss of the beloved friend and heart health advocate Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation honored her legacy with her mentee, Deborah Smith, acknowledging her “never stop” attitude and how she continued to encourage to reach her potential and to find her passion. After her noteworthy peek into their personal relationship, YWE introduced Fairman to the captivated audience via slide show and they watched a montage of pictures that revealed her caring and positive spirit. Testimony from her close friend, Sharon Smith- Knight, shown Fairman’s humorous side. Everyone in attendance participated in and observed a moment of silence during Fairman’s original scheduled speaking time. 

Cuellar spoke about domestic violence and how Divine Connections, H.O.P.E.’s mission is to offer guidance, empowerment, education and resources for building healthy relationships. The attendees were introduced to Option House by Deborah Smith, which provides information, resources and services about domestic violence. A question and answer segment was held at the end of the presentations.

Vickie Lee and Dr. Brooks

Dr. Brooks discussed how to prevent and live with heart disease. He communicated how the physical body is not only the expressed image of the invisible mind but is also the visible barometer of what occurs in our mental, emotional and spiritual bodies. He connected physical wellness to our mental health. He emphasized that we need to eliminate all the bad things our bodies accumulate.

In addition to providing useful health and wellness information at the conference, the attendees was also invited to get physical during the live line dance demonstrations by Heart and Soul’s Harriette Coggs- Stuckey. The line dance demonstrations has been a huge success for the past three years and this year was no different. Coggs- Stuckey energetic personality match her energetic performance. Everyone participated in the dancing segment and enjoyed the heart pumping activity.

Heart and Soul 2017

YWE serves to strengthen the character of young women of high school age in the San Bernardino City region of the Inland Empire in Southern California. Young Women’s Empowerment was founded by CEO Gwendolyn Dowdy- Rodgers. The mission of our program is to empower these young women to achieve at their highest potential, particularly in education, and to instill in them a commitment to return to their community as leaders and mentors.

Vickie Lee and Madeline Freeman

The Young Women’s Empowerment Foundation (YWE) is dedicated to strengthening the self-esteem, character, integrity and capacity of young women ages 12-21 so that they may achieve their highest potential. YWE accomplishes its purpose through strategic partnerships with other organizations. YWE is guided by ethics and principles which exhibit respect for cultural diversity.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Time for Change Foundation (TFCF) is pleased to announce the grand opening of its new location. The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Friday, September 22, from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. at 2164 N. Mt. View Avenue in San Bernardino. The community is invited to come out and celebrate this momentous accomplishment.

The celebration will be attended by distinguished guests and will include a short presentation, tours, and hors d’oeuvres.

Since 2002, TFCF has been at the forefront of eliminating homelessness through evidence based programs and housing. To date, it has helped over 1,020 homeless women and children in the San Bernardino County reach self-sufficiency in addition to reunifying 249 children with their mothers.

“We are overwhelmed with joy over this new addition to our agency, said TFCF Founder and Executive Director, Kim Carter. “This is another key self-sustaining layer to our overall operations.”

The new location will allow TFCF to grow its evidence based programs and housing services which is currently serving 11 different cities.

“Without the support of our donors, this dream wouldn’t have come to fruition,” said Vanessa Perez, TFCF Associate Director. “It’s so exciting to be a part of an agency that is truly impacting lives.”

You must RSVP by emailing Lisa Moreno at Lmoreno@Timeforchangefoundation.org. Please note: there will be a strict adherence to the RSVP guest list. 

Edited by Naomi K. Bonman

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- On Saturday, September 17, over 1500 people attended the Community Block Party hosted by San Bernardino Pastors United. In addition to the 1500 attendees, over 30 agreed to turn their life around and accepted Christ into their lives.

“The community residence was very pleased,” Rev. Reginald Young stated. “Each family displayed courtesy and kindness during the event. The event was very peaceful, no violence.”

Prominent community leaders also came out to support the event, which includes San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis, Assemblymember Elosie Reyes, Assemblymember Marc Steinorth, Councilmembers Bessine Littlefield and John Valdivia and City Attorney Gary Saenz.

There were also a host of community organizations and media outlets that supported the event from the beginning to the end. United Nations of Consciousness were resourceful in utilizing their space for goods to be stored to and from there. Community Action Partnership’s (CAP) office donated 8 pallets of non-perishable items. The host church, Temple Missionary Baptist Church, helped with the set-up, food zone, registration, program flow, and event clean-up. The Way Outreach provided volunteers that assisted in making sure the day ran smoothly

Pastor Raymond Turner and Pastor Freddy brought the message and the alter call and Pastor Raul kept the vibes going as the DJ. 

“Everyone was touched by the service and love shown,” Rev. Young said. “The children were extremely jubilant, from the shoes, bouncer, face painting, and food they were happy.”

The next community block party is scheduled for Saturday, March 17 at Arden Park in San Bernardino. The question also came up whether to have another block party before the year is out. The SB Pastors United are scheduled to meet on Wednesday, October 11 at 10 a.m. to discuss that.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes launches the #FAB47 Community Recognition Program. On September 20th Assemblymember Reyes will highlight the first #FAB47 inductee in the 47th District. The Fabulous 47 Recognition Program is an opportunity for community members, businesses and community based organizations to be recognized for the great work they are doing in the Inland Region.

“The 47th Assembly District is full of amazing, hardworking and altruistic residents. As such, it is important we recognize their contribution to our community,” said Assemblymember Reyes. The recognition of the fabulous members of our community offers an opportunity to highlight the unsung heroes who give of themselves without seeking recognition.”

Assemblymember Reyes is taking monthly nominations for #FAB47 at https://a47.asmdc.org/47th-assembly-district-community-recognition-program. Nominees must live, volunteer, or work in the 47th Assembly District. The 47th Assembly District includes all or portions of the following communities: Colton, Fontana, Grand Terrace, Rialto, San Bernardino, and the unincorporated communities of Bloomington and Muscoy. To confirm the nominee lives or works in the district, go to https://a47.asmdc.org/district-map. 

For assistance in nominating or for further information about the #FAB47 Program, please call our office at (909) 381-3238.

Jatori Harris

SAN BERNARDINO, CA- When Jatori Harris took the reins of organizing the 2017/’18 Inland Empire Million March from former organizer, Terry Boykins, he wanted to foster an unresolved passion facing him for many years, and that being not having any of his parents take him to the first day of school, especially his father. 

Growing up without a father and later experiencing his mother being sentenced to prison, Jatori found himself placed in foster care at age eight.

After living with relatives for a short period while bouncing from home to home, he finally thought hope was in sight when he had secured a place of consistency with his aunt.  Only to later have his life shift, once again, when she too was sentenced to prison.

By age seventeen, he exited foster care and began his journey and search for life’s purpose and clarity. Of which, would eventually lead to a mentoring relationship and lifelong mission of giving back to the community.

Now, at age 33 and a father of two, Jatori stated, “Fatherhood is important to me because I know how much I needed and wanted my mother and father, but had to go without.  So, my passion of doing right by my children is the most important thing to me as a person, a big brother and now as a mentor myself.”

On Saturday, September 16, Jatori is reaching back and giving back by recognizing foster and father-absent youth, as well as, former foster youth now fathers during a day of fatherhood importance and awareness at the Fiesta Village Family Fun Center in Colton, CA.  Colton’s Mayor, Richard DeLaRosa, will welcome guests and attendees.

He is inviting the entire community to attend and enjoy a special dedication for those students who do not have active fathers in their lives.  Additionally, Jatori is asking anyone who would like to sponsor a foster or father-absent youth to attend and enjoy a Fiesta Village All Day Ride Pass, $14.95, to visit www.streetpositive.com and pledge support.  Or, call him at (909) 520-0286. The event will start at 10 a.m.

Harris says he is looking forward to his new tenure as the I.E. Million Father March organizer, and is adamant about pushing the importance of #FathersForEducation campaign in the years to come. Also, thanks to Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, there will be very special giveaways for the community to enjoy during the morning kick-off celebration.

By Lou Coleman-Yeboah

For being chosen to walk the runway in this year “Ankara Fest LA” the biggest African cultural festival in the United States. With her beautiful features and at just 4′ 11″ tall, Krystal proves once again – that you don’t have to be super tall to become a successful model!  As the founder of MKY Petite Modeling Agency, she quotes Napoleon Hill, “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” 

Yes, the Belasco Theater was the place to be September 1 to September 4. Festivities included Red Carpet and Cocktail, Runway Showcase, Artist Performance, Exhibitors/Vendors Showcase, Comedy, Best Dressed Male & Female Awards, dance and food with live music throughout the night and during the fashion show.  It was a fantastic, memorable evening.

“Los Angeles home to one of the largest celebrations of African fashion, culture, heritage, music, dance and art. In its mission to create social awareness for cultural pride, Ankara Festival serves as creative gathering place for fashion designers, models, exhibitors and individuals at the forefront of afro centric innovation.”

Miss Krystal Yvonne, “continue to be like the eagle: soar high, and drop your food onto rocks to crack them open.”  Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for your continued success!