Thursday, August 20 | Volume 40 No. 23
8 pages · tap a page to read its text
Remembering John H. Coleman: A Life of Grace, Service, and Legacy
Black Culture Foundation Names Christen Irving as the New President
The new officer slate has been approved for the July 15 transition, with former president Carl M. Dameron transitioning to an advisory role
RIVERSIDE, CA — The Black Culture Foundation today announced a leadership transition, with Carl M. Dameron stepping down as president and Christen Irving advancing to the role, effec tive July 15, 2026. Dameron, who has led the Foundation for two years, cited ongoing health challenges as the reason for the transition. Despite stepping away from the day-to-day role, Dameron will remain deeply involved as an advisor to the organization. "Serving as President of the Black Culture Foundation has been one of the greatest honors of my life," Dameron
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of John Hoover Coleman on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Pomona Valley Hospital, just weeks after celebrating his 96th birthday. Born in Boston, Mass. on July 6, 1930, John married Florence McCoy and later became a long-time resident of Redlands, California where he enjoyed seeing the crests of the San Bernardino mountain range from his home. He witnessed many changes take place over the decades since he and Florence moved their young said. "Together, we brought back our family into the home – in- historic Black History Parade after a cluding the construction of several-year hiatus, reigniting the very Texonia Park on the edge spirit that launched our organization in of vast groves of Valencia 1968. While my role must change, my and Navel oranges.
commitment to our mission remains un- Over the years, the groves breakable." gave way to the expan-
The Foundation's Board of Directors sion of the neighborhood, has approved a complete slate of offi and John remained one of cers to lead the organization into its next the early residents deeply chapter: President: Christen Irving; Vice connected to the beauty President: Joseph "JPash" Patrick; Secof the place that he loved. retary: Aicheria Bell; returning board He was a gifted photog- members are Media Director: Ezekiel rapher, and many of the Adelek; Treasurer: Dolores Armstead. most cherished images of Bronica Martindale continues her role family were captured by as Black Rose Committee Chair, overhis eye and his ability to seeing the Black Rose Awards. Russel find the unguarded mo
Ward remains the Black Culture Parade ments of folks just being Chair, responsible for organizing the themselves. He was also annual parade celebrating Black culture See "Remembering John H. Coleman..." See page 7 and heritage. Vickie Davies returns as Festival Chair, leading efforts to coor dinate festival activities, performances, and community engagement. Irving previously served as Secretary and brings extensive professional experience as the head of her own business consulting firm, Irving Media Consultants, specializing in project management and fundraising for small businesses. Dameron expressed full confidence in the new leadership team.
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Crafton Hills College Launches Vocational Nurse Program, Expanding Pathways into High-Demand Healthcare Careers
YUCAIPA, CA--- Crafton Hills College has rolled out a new Vocational Nurse (VN) Program, expanding the college's healthcare education offerings and creating a direct pathway into one of the region's most in-demand professions. The program comes as the Inland Empire faces a critical shortage of healthcare professionals, and Crafton Hills College is looking to help close that gap by preparing more students for careers in nursing. The inaugural cohort began classes on May 26 and is scheduled to graduate on August 13, 2027. The program is a full-time, 55-week curriculum divided into four terms (Summer, Fall, Spring, Summer), comprising a total of 1,530 hours—576 hours of theory and 954 hours of clinical training and prepares students for careers in skilled nursing facilities, sub-acute recovery centers, and acute care hospitals. Students must first complete the college's Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program and a pharmacology course before applying, and admission requires a separate application process. Upon completion the students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination-- Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN). Once completed they will be a Licensed Vocational Nurse. The VN Program is designed as a living-wage certificate program that will give students a di rect route to stable employment while helping address a persistent nursing workforce shortage in the Inland Empire. To be competitive in employment a post IV Certification course will be offered to all students holding an ac tive license as an LVN, this gives them additional employment skills for clinics, acute care facilities and others. In addition to tuition and registration fees, students should budget for textbooks, program supplies, clinical fees, and licensing and testing costs. “This program does far more than provide workers to fill gaps. It provides students in our community with a clear path into stable and respectable healthcare careers and provides local healthcare providers with the skilled nurses needed today,” said John Cordova, Vocational Nursing Program Director. There were twelve students enrolled in the initial cohort; however, Crafton Hills College intends to increase enrollment for the next cohort to twenty students in order to increase student participation in nursing education and support increasing demands for qualified health care personnel. “Students receive hands-on clinical training from day one, therefore, by the time they graduate, they can confidently enter skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, or recovery centers,” said Dan Word, Dean of Career Education and Human Development. For more information about the LVN Program, contact John Cordova, Program Director, at [email protected] or visit https://www.craftonhills.edu/nursing.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
City of Riverside to Officially
Funk Up the Recognize August 25 as Dell Roberts
Night Celebrates Day in Celebration of His 90th Birthday Neo-Soul and Funk
RIVERSIDE, CA — The community is cordially invited to take part in a historic celebration as the City of Riverside officially recognizes August 25 as Dell Roberts Day, honoring the 90th birthday of longtime community leader Dell Roberts and his decades of service, leadership and commitment to the Riverside community. The special ceremony will take place on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. inside the Riverside City Council Chambers, also known as the Art Pick Chambers, at Riverside City Hall, 3900 Main Street, Riverside, California 92501. The celebration will commemorate Roberts' extraordinary 90th birthday while recognizing the lasting impact he has made throughout Riverside. His years of dedication to the community have touched generations and helped strengthen civic, educational and community institutions throughout the region. The official Dell Roberts Day celebration is expected to bring together elected officials, community leaders, organizations, supporters, family members, friends and residents who have been impacted by Roberts' service and legacy. Among those recognized as participating elected officials and community leaders are Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson; U.S. Congressman Mark Takano; Riverside County Supervisor Jose Medina; California State Senator Sabrina Cervantes; California State Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson; Riverside City Councilmember Phillip Falcone; Riverside City Councilmember Clarissa Cervantes; Riverside Police Chief Larry Gonzalez; and Riverside Fire Chief Steve McKinster. Community organizations and leaders supporting the celebration include Pastor L. E. Campbell of Park Avenue Missionary Baptist Church; Dr. Sonia Llamas, Superintendent of Riverside Unified School District; Carmen
SAN BERNARDINO, CA — Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music, food and feel-good vibes as Funk Up the Night brings together the smooth sounds of neo-soul and the timeless energy of funk for a special night under the stars. Taking place Sunday, September 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at The Hidden Gem, Funk Up the Night will feature live entertainment from Official Biz and Comedian Antho ny Stone, along with food from Rods Smoked Out BBQ. The event is open to guests ages 21 and older. Funk Up the Night is designed to bring music lovers together for an evening filled with soulful rhythms, infectious basslines and live performances celebrating both classic funk favorites and modern neo-soul sounds. Guests are encouraged to dress to impress, bring their best energy and come ready to dance, vibe and enjoy an evening of rhythm, culture and musical expression. Tickets are $30 in advance after August 15 and $40 at the door. A $45 ticket option includes one meal ticket, while the $60 VIP experience includes one meal ticket and seating. For tickets and additional event information, visit the Funk Up the Night event page through Ticketleap.
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“Sickle Cell Warriors” Urge Gov. Newsom to Sustain Critical Patient-Care Funding
By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
Representatives of the Cayenne Wellness Center, a leading advocate for California’s sickle cell community, delivered a petition with more than 1,000 signatures to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office on Aug. 14. The petition calls on state leaders to provide $15 million over the next three years to support care for people living with the genetic disorder. Dr. Carolyn Rowley, founder and executive director of the Cayenne Wellness Center and Children’s Foundation, said the investment would sustain and expand vital communitybased wraparound services as previous state and federal grants expire. Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become hard and sickle-shaped, potentially blocking blood flow and triggering severe pain. In the United States, the disease is most common among Black Americans, occurring in about 1 in every 365 Black births and an estimated 3% to 9% of Hispanic or Latino births, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Founded in 2000 and headquartered in the Los Angeles area, Cayenne Wellness Center is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life of Californians living with sickle cell disease, as well as their families and caregivers. The organization also works with local health care providers. Its programs include no-cost mental health and spiritual counseling, transportation assistance, financial aid and respite care. The center also provides home visits, care coordination, trauma-informed support, health education and trusted guidance. “We touch upon 1,200 persons living with sickle cell across the state,” Rowley told California Black Media (CBM). “That’s seven community health workers regionally, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Inland, and Orange counties. That includes Northern California and Central California. We also have one health worker for Spanish-speaking clients only. And our clients receive no-cost mental health support.”
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P E R I N A T A L E Q U I T Y I N S A N B E R N A R D I N O C O U N T Y In California, about one in every ten babies is born too early. But for Black women, the risk of giving birth early— called preterm birth—are nearly twice as high. Early births can mean more health risks for both the baby and the mother.
That’s why the Black Infant Health (BIH) program is such a vital resource in our community.
BIH recognizes that racism, economic stress, and where you live can all affect a mother’s health and her baby’s chance of survival.
The program offers a free, culturally supportive program for Black and African American women. If you're a Black woman who is pregnant or has had a baby in the last six months, BIH is for you, regardless of your income. Program participants can earn essentials like diapers, clothes, baby supplies, and safe sleep supplies.
BIH is more than just classes. It’s a community where you can build friendships, gain confidence, and feel seen and heard by someone that cares about you. If you or someone you know is pregnant or has a newborn, reach out. These programs are free, supportive, and grounded in love, respect, and culture.
Together, we can build healthy beginnings for Black families. For more information, visit dph.sbcounty.gov/bih or call 844-352-3985.
Free Mobile Medical Van and Community Resources Coming to San Bernardino for Empowerment & Action Fair
SAN BERNARDINO, CA--- The community is invited to take advantage of free healthcare services and a wide range of valuable resources during the upcoming Empowerment and Action Fair, hosted by Time for Change Foundation. The free community event will take place Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The BBOP Center, located at 599 N. Arrowhead Avenue in San Bernardino. As part of the event, a free mobile medical van will be available to provide comprehensive primary care, women’s health services, TB screenings, on-site lab testing, STI and HIV testing, vaccines, health screenings and health education. Attendees will also have access to assistance with connecting to ongoing medical care, health insurance and CalFresh enrollment. The Empowerment and Action Fair will extend beyond healthcare by connecting individuals and families with legal services, housing and financial resources, employment and education opportunities, family and youth services, and community enrichment programs. Guests can also enjoy food, a Kids Fun Zone and raffles throughout the event. Appointments for the mobile medical van can be scheduled through the “Schedule Your Appointment!” link included in the event information. Those interested in learning more about the full Empowerment and Action Fair can also access the “View Event Flyer!” link embedded in the original announcement. For questions or additional information, call (909) 886-2994.
Honey Play Box Joins Black Women for Wellness’ Reproductive Justice Conference as Sponsor
CHINO, CA--- Honey Play Box is proud to support the 2026 Black Women for Wellness Reproductive Justice Conference as one of this year's sponsors. Taking place on August 13th at The California Endowment in Los Angeles, the conference will bring together healthcare professionals, advocates, educators, and community members for a day of learning and conversation around reproductive justice. This year's theme, "From Harm to Healing: Dismantling Barriers to Reproductive Justice for Black Women and Girls," looks at both the history and ongoing realities that shape reproductive health while making room for healing, education, and community action. Honey Play Box will be at the conference with an exhibitor table where attendees can stop by to meet the team, learn more about the brand, pick up donated wellness products, and enter a few giveaways throughout the day. Honey Play Box is joining the conference as part of its ongoing efforts to support conver sations around sexual wellness and education. Through this sponsorship, Honey Play Box is See "Honey Play..." page 8
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On Your November Ballot:
Women’s Wellness Talk to Prop 37 Would Assist
Empower Women Through Middle-Income Californians Perimenopause and Menopause on how to Take Out Second Mortgages for New Homes
NORCO, CA--- Women navigating perimenopause and menopause are invited to an informative and uplifting Women’s Wellness Talk designed to help them better understand the changes their bodies may experience while learning ways to move through this stage of life with strength, confidence and self-care. The event will take place on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Tru by Hilton Hotel, located at 3481 Hamner Ave. in Norco, California. Presented by Method78 Fitness, the discussion will feature Dr. Leita Harris of Vitality & Wellness Center and Irene Anderson, founder and owner of Method78 Fitness. Together, they will lead a conversation focused on perimenopause and menopause, with an emphasis on helping women become more informed, empowered and proactive about their health and wellness. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the physical and emotional changes that can occur during perimenopause and menopause, explore natural approaches to supporting wellness, and gain practical information to help improve their overall quality of life.
This November, California voters will decide whether to establish a second-mortgage program to help eligible middle-income homebuyers purchase qualifying homes. Proposition (Prop 37), the Second Mortgage Homebuyer Program and Revenue Bond Initiative, would create the program to expand homeownership opportunities for middle-income Californians. It would be financed through $25 million in bonds issued by the California Housing Finance Agency. (CalHFA). Prop 37 would require qualified buyers to meet specific conditions outlined in the measure. Buyers would be required to have been California residents for at least one year, agree to occupy and state the home as their primary residence within 60 days of closing, hold an income that is at or below 200% of the area’s median income for a similar-sized family in the city or county where the qualified home is located and provide a down payment that is at least 3% of the total purchase price of the qualified home. Under the initiative, a “qualified home” could be a newly built single-family home, townhome, row house or condominium. It could also be a residence in a former nonresidential building converted for residential use. In each case, the borrower must be the property’s first purchaser.
To read more, visit westsidestorynewspaper.com.
Thursday, August 20, 2026
100 Black Wings’ Team Oakland Wins Gold Twice at 2026 International
Continued from the front page
Black Culture Foundation Names the New President
"Christen has already proven her modern vision, strategic expertise, dedication through outstanding
Children’s Games In Taiwan service as our Secretary," Dameron said. "She brings vibrant youth, Oakland youth athletes capture 1st an undeniable passion for our culture, and a phenomenal team of place in Girls Shot Put and Boys professionals. Backed by this exceptional slate, I am entirely con-
4x100-Meter Relay fident that this team possesses the and deep-rooted commitment required to elevate the Black Culture Foundation to historic new heights.”
To read more, visit westsidestorynewspaper.com.
OAKLAND, CA — The 100 Black Men of the Bay Area proudly announces that 100 Black Wings’ Team Oakland captured two gold medals at the 2026 International Children’s Games (ICG) in Hualien, Taiwan. In the Girls Shot Put event, Oakland’s Najae Ellison collected the very first gold medal of the Games, followed by a first place win for the Boys 4x100-Meter Relay foursome of DeWayne “Wayne” Littlepage, Marvin Thomas, Jasani Highsmith and Royal Moore. The victories capped a strong showing by Team Oakland athletes, who competed in preliminary, semifinal and final rounds across multiple track and field events during the Games. In the Boys Long Jump, Abisewolu Redmond and Royal Moore advanced to the final. In the Girls 80-Meter Hurdles, Mahari Moore won her preliminary heat and advanced to the semifinal, while also advanc ing in the Girls 100-Meter race.
In the Boys 100-Meter, DeWayne “Wayne” Littlepage advanced to the semifinal. In the Boys Long Jump Final, Royal Moore finished fourth overall, narrowly missing the medal stand, with Abisewolu Redmond finishing 12th overall. In the Girls 80-Meter Hurdles Final, Mahari Moore also finished fourth overall, just outside the medal positions. “Winning gold on an international stage is an incredible accomplishment, but what makes us most proud is the way these young people represented Oakland,” said Danny L. Williams, Chairman of 100 Black Men of the Bay Area, Inc. “Their discipline, teamwork, perseverance and pride were so inspiring, and their success shows what happens when young people are given opportunity, preparation and a community that believes in them.”
To read more, visit westsidestorynewspaper.com.
Remembering John Coleman a first call photojournalist who documented community events throughout the Inland Empire for many decades. He was a long-standing member of the National Association of Social Workers, Urban League, American Cancer Society, and he served on the Board of the Redlands YMCA. A member of the U.S. Army, John served in the Korean War as a Radio Communications Specialist. After returning home, he completed his undergraduate, then graduate studies earning a Master of Social Work from Simmons College in Boston, Mass. He worked as a Counselor at Patton State Hospital in San Bernardino, and then as an Administrator and Counselor at the University of California at Riverside. Upon leaving UCR, he continued work in counseling and at San Bernardino Valley College. John is survived by his sons, Johnny (Rhonda) and David Coleman; five grandchildren, Ayo, Ta yari, Nyima, Mykal, Myles Coleman; five nieces, one nephew, and a host of cousins, great nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his Father, Larkin Coleman, his mother, Beulah (née. Harrison) Coleman; siblings, Larkin, Amy, and Samuel Coleman, and his wife, Florence (née. Mc- Coy) Coleman. John was blessed with a long journey on this earth, and he lived his life fully on his own terms. A memorial gathering to celebrate John’s life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flow ers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society.
Roberts, President of the Adrian Dell and Carmen Roberts Foundato attend. Community members are encouraged to come together
Reproductive Justice Conference as Sponsor tion; Lewis Davidson, President of the Cocher Car Club; Eastside Think Tank; Dr. Eric Bishop, President of Riverside City College; Dell Roberts, President of the Bordwell Park Advisory Board; Dr. Regina Patton-Stell, President of the NAACP Riverside Branch; and Sabrina Gonzalez, Executive Director of the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California. Additional community supporters include Virginia Blumenthal, Attorney-at-Law; Bishop Jon Harris of Castle Rock Church; Sergio Diaz, retired Riverside Police Chief; and Oliver and Mary Welch of Front Page Publishing, LLC. The event is free and open to the public, and children are welcome to celebrate Roberts' milestone helping support Black Women for birthday and the official designa
Wellness and the attendees who tion of a day recognizing his con- come together for a day focused tributions to Riverside.
on reproductive health, education, Those planning to attend are en- and advocacy. couraged to RSVP at: https://eztxt. "We're excited to support Black net/4fTvCJ. For questions, com- Women for Wellness and be part ments or concerns regarding the of this year's conference," said celebration, please visit: https:// Honey Play Box marketing maneztxt.net/4fTvCJ. The City of Riverside and comager, Janice Ochoa. "We believe education matters, and we're always looking for opportunities to connect with organizations that are helping people have more informed conversations about sexual wellness and reproductive health."
To read more, visit westsidestorynewspaper.com.
munity supporters invite residents throughout the Inland Empire to join this memorable occasion and help celebrate the life, service and legacy of Dell Roberts as he turns 90 and receives the distinguished honor of having August 25 offi cially recognized as Dell Roberts Day.
Continued from page 6
Women’s Wellness Talk to mpower Women Through Perimenopause and Menopause
The Women’s Wellness Talk ing can register through Eventbrite
CLASSIFIED / LEGAL SECTION is centered around the message “Know More. Do More. Live Betusing the registration information provided by Method78 Fitness.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS N A M E S TAT E M E N T : FBN20260007494. The following person(s) is(are) doing business as: WESTSIDE S T O RY N E W S PA P E R , EMPIRE TALKS BACK, CALIFORNIA ROUTE 66 MARATHON, 577 North "D" Street, S#112H, San Bernardino CA 92401. Business Mailing Address: 577 North "D" Street, S#112H, San Bernardino CA 92401 . County of Principal Place of Business: SAN BER- N A R D I N O . N u m b e r o f Employees (Optional): N/A. This business is conducted by: A CORPORATION. Name of corporation or limited liability company as shown in the Articles of Inc./Org./Reg.: W J ALLEN MULTIMEDIA PRODUC- TIONS, 577 North "D" Street, S#112H, San Bernardino CA 92401. State of Inc./Org./Reg.: CA. Inc./ Org./Reg. No. (Optional): N/A Registrant commenced to transact business: JAN 16, 2009. By signing, I declares all information in this statement is true and correct. Signature: /s/ WALLACE J ALLEN. Printed Title of Person Signing: CEO. Date: 08/11/2026. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of San Bernardino on 08/11/2026. I hereby certify that this copy is a correct copy of the original statement on file in my office. COUNTY CLERK DEP- UTY SAN/K6677 NOTICE – IN ACCOR- DANCE WITH SUBDIVI- SION (A) OF SECTION 17920. THIS FICTITIOUS N A M E S TAT E M E N T GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE C O U N T Y C L E R K E X - CEPT, AS PROVIDED IN S U B D I V I S I O N ( B ) O F SECTION 17920, WHERE I T E X P I R E S 4 0 D AY S AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH I N T H E S TAT E M E N T PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESI- DENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSI- NESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION. THE FILING OF THIS STATE- MENT DOES NOT ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF FICTI- TIOUS BUSINESS IN VIO- LATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR C O M M O N L AW ( S E E SECTION 14411, ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFES- SIONS CODE). Run Dates: 8-13, 8-20, 8-27, 9-3-2026. WSS# 26-020
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE - CHANGE OF NAME CASE #: CIVSB2620570 PETITIONER OR ATTOR- NEY: ESTELA OCAMPO CAZAREZ STREET ADDRESS: 2396 MEDICAL CENTER DR., SAN BERNARDINO CA 92411 Telephone: (909) 708-0552 E-Mail Address (OPTION- AL): nexomsinfo@gmail. com SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO PETITION OF: MATEO ALDANA OCAMPO TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner MATEO AL- DANA OCAMPO has filed a petition with the clerk of this Court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: MATEO ALDANA OCAMPO to Proposed name: MATEO ALDANA OCAMPO. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing inditer.” and encourages women to cated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not embrace every stage of life with be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes knowledge, confidence and sup described above must file a written objection that port.
includes the reasons for the Space for the event is limited, and objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and advance registration is encourmust appear at the hearing to show cause why the peti- aged. Those interested in attend-
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tion should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 09/03/2026
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The address of the court is the same as noted above. A copy of this ORDER to Show Cause must be pubin a newspaper of general www.wssnews.com week for four successive weeks before the date set for hearing on the petition circulation, printed in this (909)384-8131 county (specify newspaper): WESTSIDE STORY NEWSPAPER Date: JULY 15, 2026 Sign: JOSEPH T. ORTIZ, JUDGE OF THE SUPE- RIOR COURT Wss 26-018