These Interior Design students from The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire helped the ABC network television show Extreme Makeover transform a home in Phelan, including the dream bedroom of the owners' teen-age daughter.
Marissa Louden, Jamie Young and Paige Petersen, now graduates of The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire, created emergency shelters as part of a second-year class project in the Interior Design program.
Interior Design students from The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire volunteered with Habitat for Humanity of Riverside to build a home there.
Students at The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire create plans for fantasy clients in a t.second-year class project.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) They have helped transform a dull old kitchen for the Boys & Girls Club into a cheerful place where kids can learn about food and nutrition. They have built small, portable shelters that can keep everyone from a homeless person to a firefighter safe from the elements of weather. And they’ve helped several non-profit organizations build dream homes. All of this, and more, before graduating from college.
By the end of their studies, students in the Interior Design program at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire will be capable of designing any kind of interior space, from floor to ceiling. They will do it with a lot more than cosmetic touches.
“We’re not teaching HGTV (Home and Garden Television) here,” said Sara Sandoval, academic director for the Art Institute of California-Inland Empire. “Designers have an education and must be state certified.”
The education offered at the Art Institute of California-Inland Empire is a bachelor’s degree program that will qualify graduates to work with architects or other designers to create aesthetically pleasing yet efficient places for people to work and live, Sandoval said.
“Interior designers change lives,” Sandoval said. “They affect change in a positive way by changing interiors.”
For instance, if an office employee must work in a small, windowless room, he or she may feel depressed, and productivity will suffer, Sandoval said. An interior designer can transform that small, windowless office into a place where the worker likes to be.
At the Art Institute, the curriculum begins with basics. First-quarter students, regardless of major, take “foundation” courses in art and design. Interior designers also take two courses in drafting.
In their first Interior Design course, 3D Design Basics, students get an opportunity to build cardboard furniture. Some of these Spartan but functional pieces occupy a corner of The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire’s lobby, just as comfortable and almost as attractive as the rest of the sofas and chairs
That course not only gives students an early opportunity to design something practical (office furniture), but also teaches them many design principals. One is the lesson that just as layers of cardboard are weak individually but strong when working together, people are stronger when they work as a team.
Another lesson Interior Design students learn in their 3D Design Basics course is that environments without color or texture are boring. The Art Institute staff will readily admit that while it adds character to the school’s lobby, the first year students’ durable but Spartan furniture isn’t likely to ever show up in fine home furnishings stores.
On the other hand, the talents and creations of more than 100 students who are well on their way to completing the program are highly marketable. In fact, the most advanced students already have designed projects for their campus, the Riverside Habitat for Humanity, the San Bernardino Boys & Girls Club and local businesses.
Last year, the advanced Interior Design students built temporary emergency shelters as a class project. These look and function so well the school’s administration invited community leaders, media, emergency service workers and homeless advocates to the school, to view the shelters that might actually be put to good use off campus.
These students have already studied courses in construction, architecture and computer-assisted drafting. They have learned how to create interior spaces, and how to present their concepts to clients.
They have become familiar with all necessary documents for a building project, studied business management, art history and environmental science. The most advanced students are now writing theses, and finishing preparation of the detailed portfolios they were working on throughout their education at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire.
Usually, interior designers create spaces for commercial or industrial use, according to Sandoval. This could include, among others, schools, government buildings, offices, health care facilities, and places offering hospitality services, such as hotels and restaurants. Interior designers also help create or remodel large public places like Los Angeles’ Staples Center.
Homeowners, even if they have the budget to do so, aren’t often inclined to pay interior designers a sustainable living wage, Sandoval said. However, both contemporary residential design and historical restoration are specializations within interior design.
Interior designers who work within these residential specialties will most likely work with an architect, Sandoval said. So, if a homebuilder hires an architect to help with the design phase, chances are good an interior designer will also have an influence on the project.
The Art Institute of California-Inland Empire Interior Design program began in 2006 when the school opened, and its first graduates completed their bachelor’s degrees in March 2009. A year-round schedule allows students to finish what would normally be a four-year program in just three years.
Ten instructors who have a rich and varied experience in the industry teach the courses. Some own their own interior design firms, others work for prominent design firms or architects.
The Interior Design program shares some of its faculty with other departments. These instructors might have industry experience in architecture or interior design, but also have worked in fine arts, animation and graphic design.
In addition to their interior design studies, they will have a well-rounded general education, studying electives in the other design-oriented majors offered by the Arts Institute, and will likely have completed internships in the trade.
“Our goal is for them to be hired immediately after they graduate,” Sandoval said, “so they have a seamless transition between the school and the profession of interior design.
After graduation, these students will be required to work under close supervision for three years. After this they’re required to pass an exam on California building codes, and three other exams on design issues, before they can work on their own as a certified interior designer.
After that, they will be revolutionizing interior design in the Inland Empire.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Web Design & Interactive Media, Interior Design, Fashion and Retail Management and Media Arts & Animation. A Bachelor of Fine Arts is offered in Fashion Design. There are also Associate of Science degrees in Graphic Design. Each program is offered on a year-round basis, allowing students to work uninterrupted toward their degrees.
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers an Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree in Culinary Management. Each program is offered on a year-round basis, allowing students to work uninterrupted toward their degrees.
It’s not too late to enroll at The Art Institute of California-Inland Empire. Courses begin July 13, with offerings in the days, evenings and on weekends for new and reentry students. For details or a tour of the campus call (909) 915-2100, or go on line to artinstitutes.edu/inlandempire.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire is one of The Art Institutes (artinstitutes.edu) a system of over 40 education institutions throughout North America providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary arts professionals.
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Thursday, June 18, 2009
Interior Designers Create More Than Just A Pretty Place
Black Voice Foundation Shows How To Be Green
Riverside County Auditor-Controller Robert Byrd attended the Green Economy Summit, where he learned more about the green economy, green jobs and recycling.
Craig Keys Executive Director of Green Valley Initiative spoke at the Green Economy Symposium at the Grier Pavilion and spoke on the green economy, green jobs, and recycling.
Rikke Van Johnson, San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem, (back left) and Lisha Smith, Deputy Director for San Bernardino County Supervisor Josie Gonzales, attended the Green Economy Symposium at the Grier Pavilion and learned more about the green economy, green jobs, and recycling.
Lea Peterson Sempra Utilities spoke at the Green Economy Symposium at the Grier Pavilion and spoke on the green economy, green jobs, and recycling.
More than 80 community leaders attended the Green Economy Symposium at the Grier Pavilion and learned more about the green economy, green jobs, and recycling.
More than 80 community leaders including Carl Dameron, president the Inland Empire African-American Chamber of Commerce attended the Green Economy Symposium at the Grier Pavilion and learned more about the green economy, green jobs, and recycling.
(RIVERSIDE, Calif.) - The Black Voice Foundation, the Inland Empire African-American Chamber of Commerce and the Moreno Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted a Green Economy Symposium at the Grier Pavilion, Riverside City Hall on Friday, June 12, 2009.
Commissioner Timothy Alan Simon of the California Public Utilities Commission was the special guest speaker.
Before the featured speaker, attendees had an opportunity to learn more about the green economy, green jobs, and recycling. Leonard Robison, Director of Toxic Waste and the EPA Federal Liaison for the State of California moderated a panel discussion.
In his brief tenure at the Public Utilities Commission, Simon has used his business, law, and public service backgrounds to provide California with environmentally friendly energy, and supported the expansion of energy efficiency programs to help low-income residents, and the establishment of a “solar incentive program for low-income homeowners.”
The panelists at the event included Lea Peterson of Sempra Utilities; Jamil Dada, President of the Association of the Workforce Development Board; Craig Key, s Executive Director of Green Valley Initiative and Lois Carson, Executive Director of the Community Action Partnership.
The Black Voice Foundation has previously hosted green events in the Inland Empire to spread awareness about environmental efforts such as recycling, green jobs, electronic waste disposal procedures and energy conservation.
For information on the Green Economy Symposium, contact Anna Wenger at (951)-682-6070.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
San Jacinto Hemet Chamber Learns How Riverside County's $3.2 Billion is Spent
Patti K. Drusky, president/CEO of the Hemet/San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce and Robert Byrd, Riverside County Auditor-Controller at a recent chamber meeting where Byrd discussed the state of county’s $3.2 billion budget.
(RIVERSIDE, Calif.) - Riverside County Auditor-Controller Robert Byrd met with members of the San Jacinto-Hemet Chamber of Commerce and let them know how the county spent more than $3.2 billion in fiscal year 2007-2008.
He reported that Riverside County took in more than $3.5 billion in revenue from July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008 but spent just under $3.2 billion.
Byrd gave each member a copy of the Financial Highlights of Riverside County’s Annual Report. The reported the budget expenditures and showed a variety of charts.
A “dollar bill" chart showing how for every dollar of property tax collected, 48 cents is spent on schools, 25 cents on community redevelopment, 12 cents on Riverside County itself, eight cents on the county’s special districts and seven cents on the cities within Riverside County.
“In Fiscal Year 2007-2008, our county continued to grow, thus easing the financial strain locally,” Byrd said.
“Riverside County has been prudent in its fiscal management over the past years. While we are not experiencing double-digit property-tax revenue growth as in the past, revenue has not decreased as much as in many other California counties,” Byrd added
However, Byrd cautions that this year’s financial report likely won’t be as glowing as last years.
“Our county, state, country and world are experiencing a financial crisis,” he said. “Issues involving mortgages, foreclosures and the collapse of banking institutions, as well as corruption and unethical behavior, abound. Riverside County is not an island unto itself; it has been impacted by these global problems. Now, more than ever, it is essential we do everything possible to ensure county operations are efficient and that safeguards are in place to identify and stop wasteful spending,” Byrd said.
Byrd let with the chamber know just what the auditor controller does. “I don’t assess property or collect taxes. I write warrants (checks). "
He explained that the Auditor-Controller’s office verifies, processes and creates more than 1,000 warrants or checks to vendors each day and processes and drafts more than 40,000 paychecks for county employees each month. It oversees the disbursement of more than $3 billion in tax money each year.
Byrd’s office actively seeks speaking opportunities to talk about the county’s budget. “I’m a number guy and a people person. I actually enjoy letting our citizens and taxpayers know where their budget dollars are spent and answering questions about the county’s finances,” said Byrd.
For more information or to invite Robert Byrd to speak at your group, call the Riverside County Auditor-Controller's office at (951) 955-3800 or check the web site at http://www.auditorcontroller.org.
For a copy of the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report with 206 pages of information about the state of Riverside County’s finances go to Web at http://www.auditorcontroller.org.
Robert E. Byrd, CGFM, who is elected by the voters of Riverside County, heads the Office of the Auditor-Controller. The Auditor-Controller staff and management teams are dedicated to providing sound financial accounting, auditing and reporting in order to serve the citizens of Riverside County.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
DEMOLITION STARTS FOR SAN BERNARDINO’S CRIME RIDDEN MERIDIAN APARTMENTS
Three of 18 of San Bernardino’s crime ridden Meridian Apartment fourplexes were demolished on Monday morning. Local residents are happy the apartments are leaving. Rikke Van Johnson, City of San Bernardino mayor pro tem and Sixth Ward council member, blames the high crime rate to a design flaw. “Those who lived there were not the problem people. It was those the area attracted.”
Left to right: Shannon Johnson and Carey Jenkins from The City of San Bernardino Redevelopment Agency smile as one of the crime ridden Meridian Apartments is demolished.
(San Bernardino Calif.) Three of 18 of San Bernardino’s crime ridden Meridian Apartment fourplexes were demolished on Monday morning. Local residents are happy the apartments are leaving.
Rikke Van Johnson, City of San Bernardino mayor pro tem and Sixth Ward council member, blames the high crime rate to a design flaw. “Those who lived there were not the problem people. It was those the area attracted.”
The City of San Bernardino Redevelopment Agency has purchased 8 of the eighteen units and expects to close escrow on the remainder soon.
Johnson would like to see the fourplexs replaced with single-family homes. “Once we acquire all of the property, we’ll look for a developer to come in and bring about that type of housing.”
Renters are receiving relocation assistance from the city to find a new place to live. Rents for the substandard complex are $750 for two bedroom apartments and $850 for three bedroom units.
“I am happy to see these apartments go,” said local resident Carl Dameron. I am happy this city is ridding the Sixth Ward of these vacant complexes that have become a haven for criminals involved in drug sales, drug use and other felonies.”
Demolition started on Monday, June 15th, and clean up continues through June 16th and 17 th. “The remnants of the building won’t be put into landfills.
“Our subcontractor is sorting and recycling the old buildings. J & G Industries expects that 50 to 75 percent of the building can be recycled. The wood can become paper, or particleboard, the old tarpaper and shingles can become new shingles or asphalt and the old concrete can be sued to make new concrete,” said Johnson.
“Long before cities started to make recycling in the demolition business a requirement, our company has always strived to recycle and or reuse as much as possible from the buildings we demolish. Our company makes it an effort to recycle an estimated 75 percent of the buildings material,” said Eric Cain, J & G Industries project manager.
The recycling process saves materials filling up our landfills over the years that do not break down, thus protecting the environment and greatly reducing our costs as a company,” said Cain.
The primary materials being recycled include steel and other various metals. These metals provide the most return for the demolition business in terms of revenue. The metals are first loaded up in large high side steel trucks and then transported to metal recycling facilities. They are then processed and shipped out around the world for various uses.
Wood is another material that is often recycled. Many buildings are hand wrecked and the wood is reused for several purposes including new construction.
Charitable organizations also benefit from our recycling processes, Cain said. “In many cases organizations like Habitat for Humanity will come in and take anything from doors, cabinets, appliances, or other reusable belongings to further their projects. J & G will continue to recycle as much as possible and maintain its support for the environment.
Rikke Van Johnson represents the Sixth Ward on the San Bernardino City Council. He also serves as Mayor Pro Tem. Johnson retired after 27 years with the United States Postal Service. He is currently the manager for Greenwood Bail Bonds.
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How Riverside County's $3 Billion is Spent
Riverside County Auditor-Controller Robert Byrd will explain how the county spent its money in 2007-2008 fiscal year, in a presentation July 8 to the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce.
(RIVERSIDE, Calif.) - Riverside County Auditor-Controller Robert Byrd will tell members of the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce how the county spent $3 billion in fiscal year 2007-2008.
Byrd will explain how Riverside County spent this money when the chamber meets 12 noon Wednesday, July 8 at Menifee Lakes Country Club, 29875 Menifee Lakes Dr., Menifee. He will also answer questions about county spending.
One of the most important functions of the Auditor-Controller’s office is to audit all of Riverside County’s expenses at the end of each year. This includes compiling an annual report, and with the fiscal year ending on June 30, Byrd’s office will be one week into the process for the 2008-2009 fiscal year when he gives this presentation.
The Auditor-Controller’s office also verifies, processes and creates more than 1,000 warrants to vendors each day and processes and drafts more than 40,000 paychecks for county employees each month. It oversees the disbursement of more than $3 billion in tax money each year.
In 2002, Robert Byrd became the county’s elected Auditor-Controller with more votes cast than in the entire history of the office. He was subsequently re-elected to a second four-year term in June of 2006.
Byrd has been chair of the Riverside County Employee Campaign and the Legislative Chair for the State Association of County Auditors. Additionally, Byrd is a commissioner on the California Uniform Construction Cost Accounting Commission, and a member of the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers, the Government Finance Officer’s Association and the State Association of County Auditors.
Committed to his community, he’s a member of Riverside Rotary, board member of the Next of Kin Registry, is on the International Relations Council for Riverside and performs as Finance Chairperson for La Sierra Academy’s Board of Trustees.
For details on the Riverside County Auditor-Controller's office call (951) 955-3800.
Robert E. Byrd, CGFM, who is elected by the voters of Riverside County, heads the Office of the Auditor-Controller. The Auditor-Controller staff and management teams are dedicated to providing sound financial accounting, auditing and reporting in order to serve the citizens of Riverside County. More information is available on the Web at http://www.auditorcontroller.org.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Robert Byrd Launces US Census Efforts
Martha A Rivas, a US Census partnership specialist for the Coachella Valley and Robert Byrd, Riverside County Auditor Controller helped launch the Riverside County count for the United States Census in 2010. Byrd encouraged community and business leaders “to do the best they can to count every one of our 2.1 million residents so that Riverside County doesn’t leave any money on the table.”
(CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif.) Riverside Auditor Controller Robert Byrd encouraged United States Census workers and elected officials to help count all of Riverside County's residents during the county's census kickoff at the Doral Desert Princess Resort in Cathedral City.
During the last census, in 2000, Riverside County and the Coachella Valley had some of the lowest responses in the state, said Martha A. Rivas, a U.S. Census partnership specialist for the Coachella Valley.
Palm Springs' 49 percent response rate was the lowest in the valley.
Byrd said it's important to obtain as accurate and complete population counts as possible to help determine how the government will distribute money to the county. The valley received less financial aid 10 years ago than it could have obtained because of the low response.
The Census also determines the number of congress members, state assembly members and state senators California and the county will receive.
Obtaining a correct count in this area has specific challenges, said Rivas. These include accessing gated communities and reaching seasonal residents, such as snowbirds and migrant workers.
Byrd heard about the issues firsthand as his son served as an enumerator during the address canvassing for Census 2010.
"My son shared with me the challenges that census workers face from locked gates to dogs to suspicious residents wary of strangers," said Byrd. "He also told me once people understood he worked for the U.S. Census they were usually happy to help him."
Census questionnaires will be sent out in March 2010 and must be completed by April 1, 2010.
Coachella Mayor Eduardo Garcia attended Thursday's kickoff on behalf of Assemblyman Manuel Perez, D-Coachella.
“In terms of the census … (Perez) believes that it is critically important that we use innovation and creativity to get into every corner of the valley,” Garcia said.
In 2002, Robert Byrd became the county’s elected Auditor-Controller with more votes cast than in the entire history of the office. He was subsequently re-elected to a second four-year term in June of 2006.
The function of the Auditor-Controller’s office is to verify, process and create more than 1,000 warrants to vendors each day and process and draft more than 40,000 paychecks for county employees each month. It oversees the disbursement of more than $3 billion in tax money each year, and reports and audits all of Riverside County’s expenses.
Byrd has been chair of the Riverside County Employee Campaign and the Legislative Chair for the State Association of County Auditors. Additionally, Byrd is a commissioner on the California Uniform Construction Cost Accounting Commission, and a member of the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers, the Government Finance Officer’s Association and the State Association of County Auditors.
Committed to his community, he’s a member of Riverside Rotary, board member of the Next of Kin Registry, is on the International Relations Council for Riverside and performs as Finance Chairperson for La Sierra Academy’s Board of Trustees.
For details on the Riverside County Auditor-Controller's office call (951) 955-3800.
Robert E. Byrd, CGFM, is elected by the voters of Riverside County, heads the Office of the Auditor-Controller. The Auditor-Controller staff and management teams are dedicated to providing sound financial accounting, auditing and reporting in order to serve the citizens of Riverside County. More information is available on the Web at http://www.auditorcontroller.org.
Art Insitute Grads to Display Portfolios
Cesar Bahena of Hesperia, a March graduate of The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire, displays his art projects at the March 2009 Graduate Portfolio Review. The June graduates of The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire will be featured in the June 2009 Graduate Portfolio Review, taking place June 16, 2009 at the Riverside Art Museum.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Students nearing graduation from The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire will showcase the best of their work when the school hosts its Graduate Portfolio Show on Tuesday, June 16 at the Riverside Art Museum.
“This is our third show, and the second time we have showcased it in the historic building that encompasses the Riverside Art Museum. Now that many of our students are soon becoming alumni, we hope that area employers will come and enjoy a display of commercial art in a great art venue, but also consider bringing these talented artists with new college degrees into their workplace,” said Cindy Jones, director of Career Services for The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire.
“We also celebrate this important milestone with our students and honor them as they begin their journey into professional lives.”
Employers looking for talented, newly graduated professionals in the fields of Graphic Design, Web Design & Interactive Media, Culinary Arts and Media Arts & Animation are invited to attend this reception from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Riverside Art Museum, 3425 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside. They’re asked to RSVP with Brenda Medina at (909) 915-2192.
From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., the party continues its focus on the graduates, but the guests joining them during this portion of the event will be their own friends and family. These three hours are also open to the public
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire will serve hors d’ouvres and beverages, some of which are being created by the new graduates of the Culinary Arts program.
The Graduate Portfolio Show is now a quarterly tradition for The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. It began holding this event last December, and has had a growing number of students complete their degrees in the two quarters since then.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Web Design & Interactive Media, Interior Design, Fashion & Retail Management, and Media Arts & Animation. It offers an Associate degree in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Fashion Design.
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers an Associate degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree in Culinary Management. Each program is offered on a year-round basis, allowing students to work uninterrupted toward their degrees.
It’s not too late to start a new term at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. Courses begin July 13 and classes are offered in the day, evening and on weekends for new and reentry students.
For more information, or to arrange a tour, call The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire at (909) 915-2100 or go on line to www.artinstitutes.edu/InlandEmpire.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire is one of the Art Institutes (www.artinstitutes.edu/), a system of over 40 education locations throughout North America, providing an important source of design, media arts, and culinary arts professionals.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
IE African American Chamber Hosts Reception for Rialto Superintendent Dr. Harold Cebrun
The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce holds a reception for Dr. Harold Cebrun, superintendent of Rialto Unified School District, on Thursday, July 2.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Meet San Bernardino's New City Manager Charles McNeely
The Inland Empire African-American Chamber of Commerce will host a reception for new San Bernardino City Manager Charles McNeely on Thursday, June 11 at Castaway Restaurant & Banquet Center, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The reception takes place at Castaway Restaurant and Banquet Center, located at 670 Kendall Drive in San Bernardino, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
McNeely began leading San Bernardino through the City Manager’s office on Monday, June 1. He previously was city manager in Reno, NV.
He is the first Black to serve as San Bernardino’s city manager.
The reception provides McNeely with an opportunity to tell other Black community leaders in the Inland Empire how he plans to serve the city and the Inland Empire region as a whole.
“Since Charles McNeely is an African-American overseeing one of the largest cities in the Inland Empire, we heartily welcome him to San Bernardino,” said Carl Dameron, president of The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce. “His leadership will no doubt be positive for our city, our region and our members, and we are all excited about the opportunity to meet him and discuss our thoughts and concerns with him.”
The reception is free and refreshments are included. The event is co-sponsored by San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson, Castaway Restaurant & Banquet Center, Arrowhead Credit Union, The Art Institute of California-Inland Empire and Dameron Communications.
For more information, or to RSVP, please call Eddie L. Catoe or Brenda Erickson at 909-888-0017.
About The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce
The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to promote the economic and professional development of African American-owned businesses, thus enhancing the quality of life in our community.
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Rikke Van Johnson to Host Town Hall Meetin
San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson, top photo and City Manager Charles McNeely, bottom photo, along with Chief of Police Keith Kilmer, will present information about projects taking place in Ward 6 (Johnson's area of representation) and elsewhere in the city at a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, June 18.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) On Thursday, June 18, 2009 Mayor Pro Tem and Sixth Ward Councilman Rikke Van Johnson will host a Town Hall Meeting & Report at the Inghram Community Center, 2050 N. Mt Vernon Avenue beginning at 6:30 p.m. This will be an opportunity to inform the Sixth Ward residents about the city’s budget and how it will impact their neighborhoods.
City Manager Charles McNeely and Chief of Police Keith Kilmer, who both became employed by San Bernardino on June1, 2009, will both speak during Johnson’s Town Hall Meeting.
“This is an opportunity for Sixth Ward residents to meet their new city manager and their new chief of police,” said Johnson, who has represented the Sixth Ward since 2004. “Both of these gentlemen are quality individuals and I’m excited about the City’s possibilities and the improvements that will be achieved under their inspired leadership.”
Voices 4 Change will also have a presentation. “Voices 4 Change is a powerful grassroots and social action campaign, that draws on the recognized capacity of photography and poetry to effectively reach and connect to people emotionally while serving as a platform to achieve a transformation of individuals and environments,” Johnson said.
Johnson will also discuss projects in his presentation to the community including:
- State Street Widening – State Street will be widened from the 210 freeway to Foothill Boulevard, thus creating the last major north-south arterial street that can be built in San Bernardino. The project is now in the design phase. When completed this four-lane arterial will have bicycle lanes (the first in the Sixth Ward) and meandering sidewalks. It also will improve access between California State University San Bernardino, Arroyo Valley High School and Colton High School.
- Route 66 – This historic federal highway runs through the Sixth Ward, including neighborhoods experiencing economic blight. However, a new McDonald’s restaurant opened on Route 66 recently, the first major chain restaurant to open on the Westside since 1992. This restaurant and other new developments nearby are fueling economic revitalization in the area. The NorthWest Redevelopment Project Area Committee is focusing efforts to improve this historic corridor as well. These plans will be highlighted.
- Meridian Apartments – This 18-unit apartment complex, at one time owned by 14 different owners, has long been a hangout for drug dealers and other criminals. The city has acquired eight of these units, with three to be demolished before the end of the month. Eventually, Johnson says, the city hopes to acquire and demolish all the units, extend the cul-de-sac on which these apartments are located to create a through street, and offer the vacant property for potential development opportunities.
Rikke Van Johnson represents the Sixth Ward on the City Council of San Bernardino, where he has lived for most of his life. He is the manager for Greenwood Bail Bonds, and previously worked for 27 years as a clerk for the United States Postal Service.
For more information about the Town Hall Meeting, please call Eddie Catoe or Brenda Erickson at (909) 888-0017.
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Friday, June 5, 2009
Big Wood Bringing Down The Ice House
Rancho Cucamonga comedian Big Wood performs Tuesday, June 9 and Tuesday, June 23 at the Ice House Comedy Club in Pasadena.
(PASADENA, Calif.) Inland Empire resident Big Wood, who is known as one of the hottest up-and-coming comedians, will perform in two shows at Pasadena’s historic Ice House Comedy Club.
It hosts Big Wood Tuesday, June 9 and again Tuesday, June 23. He plans to perform there regularly. Both shows start at 8 p.m., but Big Wood urges people to come early for good seats.
Ice House regular Bobbie Oliver, who hosts both shows, bills the June 9 show as “the hottest up-and-coming Los Angeles area comedians.” At the June 23 show, Big Wood will entertain with several celebrity comedians, including a star of the film “Cool Runnings,” in a show called “Too Hip For the Room.”
“This is an opportunity for my friends, family and followers in the area, the Inland Empire and Los Angeles to get out and see me perform,” said Big Wood, who lives in Rancho Cucamonga. “And they will enjoy the show.”
Tickets are $15 at the door, or $10 on his website, www.bigwoodentertainment.com
The Ice House opened in 1960. It calls itself “America’s oldest stand-up comedy club” and has hosted top names such as Steve Martin, David Letterman, Jay Leno, Dana Carvey, Ellen DeGeneres, Jimmy Fallon and Jeff Foxworth.
“Bob Hope was here. Everyone who is famous in comedy has performed at The Ice House,” Big Wood said. “ I am stoked that I can call The Ice House my home now.”
Big Wood has performed in many southern California venues, but notes the Ice House Comedy Club, is known for hosting some of America’s funniest comedians, This will give him more exposure in southern California and elsewhere.
Also, he will release his first solo comedy album, “Nothing But the Truth,” on Aug. 22. It will be available at Best Buy, VIP Records in Long Beach and through his website, www.bigwoodentertainment.com.
Winston Woodard , A.K.A. Big Wood, was raised in the small country town of Forrest City, Ark., with one police car and no fire department. He moved to Pomona, Calif. at the age of 9 and graduated from Pomona High School in 1985. He went on to play football at Citrus College and Phoenix City College in Arizona. In his spare time he was hanging out in the comedy clubs. “Where ever there was a comedy club, I was there!” says Big Wood.
Growing up he liked all the attention, always entertaining people by making them laugh. He was the funny member of the family and good storyteller. If someone was sick or there was a death in the family, his company was requested to bring laughter to the situation.
He tried to be just like his grandfather, Joe Diesel
“Although my grandfather had only a second grade education he was a hardworking man,” Big Wood said. “ He had to provide for his family, if he could have gone further with his education he would have, but he did what was best to provide for his family. He bought joy and laughter to our family. He was a funny man. He encouraged me to go as far as i can with my education because the door is open for me to be whatever i want to be and that's why I am the way I am today. Mr. Funnybone himself.”
Big Wood was often known as the “jokester.” He knew he wanted to be a comedian since the sixth grade. “I knew I was funny, I had no idea I would end up a professional comedian. If you were to ask any of his friends they would say, “this guy is funny!” He often thought to himself, “Why is everyone so quiet? Lets have some laughter while were working.”
He severed in the military for three years as a Gunner on the M1 Abram Tank from 1987-1990. He also brought laughter to the service but it was too serious for him at times. He was given an honorable discharge.
Big Woods other occupation is truck driving. He has been in the truck driving business since 1991. When he’s not making people laugh he is on the road thinking of new material for his sets. He has a 14-year-old son, a 17-year-old daughter and wife of 17 years. Big Wood is a true well-rounded family man with an ambitious future in comedy.
“No matter how old you may be, you have a passion, you have a dream, and timing is everything. Live out your passion and dream,” says Big Wood. “I am doing my part at this tough time and that’s making people laugh and smile.”
To find out more information on Big Wood and his appearances you can visit his website at www.bigwoodentertainment.com.
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Thursday, June 4, 2009
MEET SAN BERNARDINO CITY SUPERINTENDENT DR. ARTURO DELGADO
Dr. Arturo Delgado, Superintendent of San Bernardino City Unified School District and a candidate for San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, will meet with Black business and community leaders Thursday, July 30.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) – The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce hosts a reception for Dr. Arturo Delgado, Superintendent of San Bernardino City Unified School District.
The event is Thursday, July 30 at Castaway Restaurant and Banquet Center, located at 670 Kendall Drive in San Bernardino, from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
Delgado is a candidate for San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools running against incumbent Dr. Gary Thomas. The chamber will have a reception for Dr. Thomas on July 16.
The reception provides Delgado with an opportunity to tell Black community leaders in the Inland Empire how he plans to serve San Bernardino County’s children.
“The chamber is happy to sponsor this reception for the superintendent. We believe it is very important for Black business and community leaders to meet with prominent decision makers in the Inland Empire to discuss how they stand on the issues and to form positive, long-term relationships,” said Carl Dameron, president of The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce
Regarded by Hispanic Heritage Magazine as Educator of the Year, and one of the 50 most influential Latinos in the Inland Empire, Dr. Delgado accepted the Superintendent position in 1999. He obtained a Master’s degree in Education Administration and a Doctorate in Education Management.
Dr. Delgado also serves as Vice President of the Association of California Urban School Districts, and is a member of several public school boards. As an active community leader, Dr. Delgado is a member of the Kiwanis Club, Arrowhead United Way, and “Y’s Guy,” a fundraiser for YWCA of San Bernardino.
The reception is free and refreshments are included. The event is co-sponsored by Dameron Communications, Castaway Restaurant, Arrowhead Credit Union, and The Art Institute of California-Inland Empire.
For more information, or to RSVP, please call Eddie L. Catoe or Brenda Erickson at 909-888-0017.
About The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce
The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to promote the economic and professional development of African American-owned businesses, thus enhancing the quality of life in our community.
Meet New Riverside County Sheriff Stanley Sniff
Riverside County Sheriff Stanley Sniff will meet with Black business and community leaders when the Inland Empire African-American Chamber of Commerce sponsors an opportunity to meet him on Thursday, June 25.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) -On Thursday, June 25th, The IE African American Chamber of Commerce hosts a reception for Riverside County Sheriff, Stanley Sniff. The event, held at the home of Jalani Bakari and Dr. Angela Martin, at 2465 Mary Street, in the city of Riverside, begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 7:30 p.m.
Government officials, business leaders and members of the community are welcome to attend.
“A priority of the Inland Empire African-American Chamber of Commerce is to foster relationships between Black business leaders and their elected officials,” said Carl Dameron, Chamber president. “Sheriff Sniff can help the Riverside County businesses in his area of expertise, law enforcement, and it’s important for these business owners to know him and what resources he can offer them.”
Sheriff Sniff was appointed as Riverside County Sheriff in 2007, and is the third sheriff to serve as Coroner-Public Administrator. With over 33 years of experience in law enforcement, Sniff began his career at the Coachella Police Department in 1975.
In 1979, Sniff transferred to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, where he held various patrol assignments in areas such as Riverside, and The San Gorgonio Pass. As an Assistant Sheriff, Sniff oversaw all county court, jail, and patrol operations. In conjunction with working in law enforcement, Sniff was a colonel in the Army Reserve.
The reception is free and will include refreshments. The event sponsors include Auditor-Controller Robert Byrd, Dameron Communications, and The Greater Riverside Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. For more information, please contact Eddie Catoe or Brenda Erickson at 909-888-0017.
About The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce
The Inland Empire's African American Chamber of Commerce's mission is to promote the economic and professional development of African American- owned businesses.
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Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Students Learn How To Produce A Fashion Show
Before a model takes the runway in a fashion show, much work is done behind the scenes. One of the last steps is making sure the model’s hair is beautiful, which an Art Institute of California – Inland Empire student does in a previous fashion show. Models take to the runway again when The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire fashion programs host Mood Indigo at the Victoria Gardens Cultural Center in Rancho Cucamonga on Saturday, June 6 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
For Mood Indigo, a fashion show coming to the Inland Empire on Saturday, June 6 the driving force is Q.Zi Media, a professional fashion show production company owned by Quyenzi Pham.
Q.Zi Media is relying on the help of its beneficiary, The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. That’s because while Mood Indigo is as much about beautiful fashions as any other show, it also serves as a training ground for men and women who are learning more about the fashion industry through bachelor’s degree programs offered by The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire.
The two programs are Fashion & Retail Marketing, which began in March 2008 and Fashion Design, which began two months later. Since most students still have less than one years’ experience in the three-year programs, most of them are taking on more of an observer role in this fashion show.
“We have about 70 students in the two programs,” said Sherry West, academic director for fashion at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. “They’re watching how a professional fashion show is put together, so they can learn from the experience.”
Some Fashion Design students will have the ultimate experience of seeing their work modeled on the runway at Mood Indigo. Another group will have their work on display in a fashion gallery before and during the show. And yet another group of students, these in the Fashion & Retail Marketing program, are creating the display gallery.
Since Mood Indigo also serves to build public awareness of the two fashion programs, still other students serve as a “Hospitality Committee.” They will greet and help seat all guests, and give potential students a gift bag that includes more information about The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire.
VIP guests, such as elected officials, members of the media and fashion industry professionals, will also receive special hospitality. Besides receiving gift bags, the students will escort the guests to a special “hospitality suite” where they can enjoy refreshments and meet with members of the Q.Zi Media team, as well as faculty and staff from The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire.
As the students progress in their education, it is likely they will have even greater involvement in future fashion shows.
“We're inviting all of The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire Fashion students to attend to experience the event this year,” she said. “They will have the opportunity to participate further in the next one.”
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Web Design & Interactive Media, Interior Design, Fashion & Retail Management, and Media Arts & Animation. It offers an Associate of Science degree in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Fashion Design.
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers an Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree in Culinary Management.
Each program is offered on a year-round basis, allowing students to work uninterrupted toward their degrees.
It’s not too late to start a new term at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. Courses begin July 13 and classes are offered in the day, evening and on weekends for new and reentry students.
For more information, or to arrange a tour, call The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire at (909) 915-2100 or go on line to www.artinstitutes.edu/InlandEmpire <http://www.artinstitutes.edu/InlandEmpire> .
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire is one of the Art Institutes (www.artinstitutes.edu <http://www.artinstitutes.edu> /), a system of over 40 education institutions located throughout North America, providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary arts professionals.
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Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Denim Like You've Never Seen Before
Mood Indigo takes place Saturday, June 6 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m at the Victoria Gardens Cultural Center in Rancho Cucamonga. There is no admission charge.
Seven student designers from The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire will have their work included in the show.
“The fact that the fashion programs are barely one year old has not stopped the eager students from wanting to showcase their talent,” said Emam El-Hout, president of The Art Institute of California-Inland Empire. “It has been an amazing journey for students and faculty alike.”
The students’ designs are made of denim, and show that it’s way more versatile than for making blue jeans.
“Denim is the focus of this fashion show,” said Sherry West, academic director for fashion at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. “I wanted something that would be easy for our first-year students to work with, yet would be fun. Everyone loves denim!”
Seven students’ work will be worn by the professional models in the fashion show. These fashion designs are:
• Denim goes 3-D with “Bubble Couture” by Isidore “Baltazar, a sculpted dress with “red-hot” accents.
• Adriana Diaz has created “Vueltas de Amor,” which translates to “Twisted Love.” This dress features a colorful cascade of denim ruffles.
• Jennifer Hernandez has created “Ode to Holland.” Hand-painted angel wings adorn the back of this hooded denim jumper, a tribute to her best friend, Holland.
• Denim takes a militant look with Erica Jennings’ “Militant Tux,” a military-inspired creation.
• Rock on with Michele Sotelo’s “Superstar!” This black and pink design is inspired by rock music and its own unique fashions.
• “Midnknight Samurai,” created by Joseph Yoshimura, gives a new twist on denim with a Japanese-inspired dress.
• Sara Vigil’s “Mademoiselle Coco” pays tribute to Coco Chanel, one of the most well-known professional designers. Full black denim trousers accompany a silky white crop top.
Other students have also created work that will be on display in a specially-designed gallery before and during the fashion show. These students are Heather Branham’s “Tinkerbell Galactica,” Dawn Harley’s “Go Go Green,” Christal McPhan’s “24 Karats,” Ashley Stanfield’s “Denim Elegrance,” LaTasha Wilson’s “Sunset” and Joseph Yoshimura’s “Wandering Nite.”
Students in The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire’s Fashion & Retail Marketing program will create a gallery for this display.
Corporate sponsor Miss Me Jeans will bring a cache of jeans, ranging from basic styles to its most highly embellished.
Corporate sponsor Bebe will bring its take on contemporary elegance, with some of the latest fashions in its lines, and corporate sponsor Soulful Commando will bring trendy fashions for men.
Students in both Fashion Design and Fashion & Retail Marketing are making behind the scenes preparations as well. Although this show relies mainly on the work of producer Quyenzi Pham and her staff. students are helping by creating gift bags for VIP guests and potential students, and seating all guests before the show.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Web Design & Interactive Media, Interior Design, Fashion & Retail Management, and Media Arts & Animation. It offers an Associate of Science degree in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Fashion Design.
The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers an Associate of Science degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree in Culinary Management.
Each program is offered on a year-round basis, allowing students to work uninterrupted toward their degrees.
It’s not too late to start a new term at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. Courses begin July 13 and classes are offered in the day, evening and on weekends for new and reentry students.
For more information, or to arrange a tour, call The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire at (909) 915-2100 or go on line to www.artinstitutes.edu/InlandEmpire
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire is one of the Art Institutes (www.artinstitutes.edu
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Monday, June 1, 2009
AMERICAN HERITAGE UNIVERSITY SETS GRADUATION
A year ago, American Heritage University of Southern California held a grand opening on the back portico of 255 D Street to celebrate its move to the current larger location. Before moving, AHU had established a successful online program of university education. It will award doctorate and bachelor’s degrees to some of its online students on Saturday, June 6 at this same location. AHU will also present honorary doctorate degrees to Hajia Turai Yar’ Adua, the First Lady of Nigeria and Chief Alao Bayo Akala, the governor of Oyo State in Nigeria. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) American Heritage University of Southern California will hold its 2009 graduation 10 a.m. Saturday, June 6 at 255 N. D Street, San Bernardino.
Hajia Turai Yar’ Adua, the First Lady of Nigeria, will receive an honorary doctorate degree from American Heritage University of Southern California. Baba Gana Wakil, the Nigerian ambassador to the United States at its Washington, D.C Embassy will accept on her behalf.
Also receiving an honorary doctorate degree, is Chief Alao Bayo Akala, Governor of Oyo State, Nigeria.
“American Heritage University of Southern California wishes to recognize the contributions our honorary doctorate recipients have made to the betterment of their countries and their people,” said AHU President Dr. Tony Ogiamien, who is a native of Nigeria. “We have a relationship with those countries through the students attending our university, and we appreciate the work these officials have done to provide these students a highly favorable future.”
The graduation honors students from the United States, Nigeria and Malaysia who have completed requirements for one of the degrees offered by AHU. These students will be receiving Doctor of Juris Prudence (law) and both bachelor’s and doctorate degrees in business administration.
Prior to 2008, American Heritage University of Southern California offered its degrees through online instruction only, which is how these graduates obtained their education.
Last year, it moved to a new location at 255 N. D Street, and began offering in-class instruction as well. This year, to expand that program, it offered full scholarships to seven Inland Empire residents.
American Heritage University offers bachelor’s and graduate degrees in Law, Public Policy, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Media Studies, and Criminal Justice.”
Undergraduate degree programs at AHU are designed to allow students to proceed at their own pace. In the case of the popular Doctor of Jurisprudence program offered online by the School of Law, the California Bar requires four years of continuous study.
The School of Law also offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law, with courses covering such subjects as contracts, criminal law, criminal procedure, legal writing, torts, Constitutional law, civil procedure and real property law.
For both online and in-class students, electronic communication is important. Students can discuss assignments on a message board, or address instructors by email and will be answered within 24 hours. Students living in the San Bernardino area can join study groups that meet at the college or in online forums.
A weekly Grade Book is posted as well, and students can access not only their test grades, but can also review any errors while studying the correct answers. Online students are graded based on test results, quality of work and their demonstration of knowledge through the assignments.
“We pride ourselves in providing adult students with the in-depth courses they need to complete their university education,” notes Ogiamien. “Our online program even permits them to do their work at any time from anywhere there’s a computer with Internet access. And in the classroom we have instructors who have reached the highest academic levels of their professions.”
American Heritage University has been granted full approval to operate by the California State Bureau for Postsecondary and Vocational Education.
For more information, call (909) 884-9000.
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