Designer Joseph Yoshimura with model wearing his “Midknight Samurai,” at the recent Mood Indigo Fashion Show put on by The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire at Victoria Gardens Cultural Center.
Model wears Twisted Love by Adriana Diaz, at right
Designer Sara Vigil, with model wearing “Mademoiselle Coco.”
Model wears Bubble Couture, designed by Isidore Baltazar, at right.
Model wears Midknight Samurai, designed by Joseph Yoshimura.
Model wearing “Militant Tux,” designed by Erica Jennings.
Model wearing “Ode to Holland,” designed by Jennifer Hernandez, not pictured.
(RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif.) Fashion Empire 2009 enchanted an Inland Empire crowd at Victoria Gardens recently.
The showcase entertained the crowd with a live DJ, acrobatics from Cirque U.S.A., professional lighting, hot brands, a fashion design gallery, silent auction and VIP section that could stand up to any Vegas lounge.
A first-class runway fashion show wrapped up the evening with a denim-inspired theme titled Mood Indigo. Showcasing fashion from sponsors Miss Me Jeans, Soulful Commandoe, Affliction and student work from the fashion design program at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire created this event to showcase the schools Fashion Design and Fashion & Retail Management programs. This non-profit event further supported students by raising funds for scholarships through sponsorships.
Sherry West, Academic Director for Fashion at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire guided the fashion students through a six month period, teaching them how to put together a fashion show - start to finish.
“The students have learned first hand experience of what the industry is all about, said West. “They were able to come up with the design, execute, make corrections and produce quality work in the allotted time.”
“There were many sleepless nights, late hours in the lab, even a couple Sundays of working diligently on the sewing machines,” said West. “This industry expects so much from you; you have to be able to produce and work hard, like it is not a big deal!”
“These students came in with nothing but desire. They are the pioneers of this program. This is how we recruit new students,” said West.
“They are so dedicated to the program, helping each other out, using team work, learning to come up as a united front. The students were willing to do what it takes to get it done,” said West.
“These kids, including myself took a journey together, learning a lot from each other and knowing there is still so much more to learn,” said West. “ By the time these pioneers graduate this program, they are going to be real stars in the fashion industry.”
Susie Culini and Amber Reddii, fire dancers with Cirque USA, performed a choreographed routine that involved props lit on fire and stunts that wowed the audience.
Culini and Redii have been performing together for several years. “It took us four to five hours to choreograph this routine,” said Culini, adding they rehearsed it for several weeks once they had it choreographed.
Twenty-year-old Stefanie Weck from Studio City was the model for the Fashion Empire 2009 program distributed during the event. She also modeled down the runway for the Mood Indigo fashion show; wearing pieces from fashion brands such as Bebe and student work from Sara Vigil.
“It was cool modeling the student work, I was very impressed with the work the first year fashion students put together” said Weck. She is also a fashion major with a passion for creating new fashion and modeling.
Fashion Empire 2009 was produced by Q.Zi Media, a professional fashion show production company owned by Quyenzi Pham.
Other sponsors included Live Fast, ieStyle Magazine, Jade, Smart Water and Red Bull.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degree programs 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 program in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in Fashion Design.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers an Associate of Science degree program 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 educational institutions located throughout North America, providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary arts professionals.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
A Taste of Paris Fashion Comes To Victoria Gardens
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Rikke Van Johnson Gives Good News & Bad News
105 year Dorothy Inghram cam out to Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson’s Sixth Ward Town Hall Meeting. Photo by Carl Dameron
More than 100 community members attended Sixth Ward Council Member and Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson’s Town Hall Meeting. Photo by Carl Dameron
Rikke Van Johnson welcomes US Census Representative Amos Young to his Sixth Ward Town Hall Meeting. Photo by Carl Dameron
Left, Right: Charles McNeely, City Manager for the City of San Bernardino and Marion Black at City Councilmember Rikke Van Johnson’s Sixth Ward Town Hall Meeting. Photo by Carl Dameron
State Street improvement diagrams presented at San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson’s Sixth Ward Town Hall Meeting. Photo by Carl Dameron
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem and Sixth Ward City Council Member Rikke Van Johnson addressed Westside San Bernardino community members at his Town Hall Meeting, Thursday June 18th at the Inghram Community Center where he introduced new San Bernardino City Manager Charles McNeely.
Johnson’s State of the City budget address painted a dismal picture at times as he detailed the impact of the collapse of the financial industry, the steep decline in housing values and skyrocketing foreclosures, which are affecting the community as well as the nation.
There was a somber atmosphere among the residents as Johnson released information on why the city had to cut 177 full time positions, 32 percent of the city’s Parks and Recreation staff, 23 percent of the Information Technology staff and the city libraries budget by $700,000. San Bernardino faces a projected budget deficit of $19 million in 2010.
McNeely, who took office on June 1, was greeted by an audience anxious for a message of optimism from their newest city official. McNeely’s message was simple, to assist the community to meet their goals, by changing the image and perception of the way the city does things.
McNeely encouraged the community to get involved and attend Council meetings to let City Hall know there needs to be change in its standards and behavior. He concluded his presentation by encouraging community interaction with his office stating, “The worst mistake the community can make is not taking advantage of me being here.”
Johnson addressed approximately 100 Sixth Ward residents providing city budget information and how it will impact their neighborhoods. Several city officials and representatives were present, as well as one of the city’s most notable educational pioneers, 104-year-old Dorothy E. Inghram, for whom the center is named.
The Councilman’s presentation was not completely laced with doom and gloom as he cited many positive efforts in revitalizing the community, including the State Street widening project. Still in the design phase is a widening from the 210 Freeway to Foothill Boulevard creating the last major north-south street that can be built in San Bernardino.
Also in the design phase are plans for the Mesa Senior Center Complex, an affordable gated independent senior living facility to be constructed on a 2.4-acre property at the corner of Highland Avenue and Medical Center Drive, boasting a 3,000 sq. ft. community center.”
Johnson was met with a rousing applause from the audience as he announced the demolition of the Meridian Apartments a long time hangout of drug dealers and other criminals. “The city has acquired eight of the 18 unit apartments, with three additional units to be demolished before the end of the month.” Eventually, Johnson says, “the city will acquire and demolish all of the units.”
Additional revitalizing efforts reported by Johnson were the construction of a new gas station on the corner of Fifth Street and Mt. Vernon Avenue, the McDonald’s restaurant on historic Route 66, which is presently the number one store of the restaurant chain in the city.
The collaborative effort with the Northwest Redevelopment Project Area Committee is focusing efforts to improve the historic Route 66 corridor with beautifully constructed facades on the areas businesses, beginning with Ace Barbershop on the corner of Mt. Vernon Avenue and Goodlet Street.
Several presentations were also on the Town Hall agenda. Amos Young Sr., Partnership Specialist for the U.S. Department of Commerce/ Census Bureau was on hand to provide the community with vital information on Census 2010 and the employment potential offering 1500 jobs to the city once the local office is staffed.
Other presentations were provided by Voices 4 Change, a grass roots social action campaign to restore health and safety for residents in San Bernardino County and foster relationships with residents and city and county officials, and The NID Housing Counseling Agency, a HUD approved non-profit agency offering free loan modification information.
Project Pipeline partnering with The Black Voice Foundation announced the grand opening of the Hardy Brown College Prep charter school in San Bernardino in fall 2010.
Johnson was quite pleased with the turnout and content of the meeting. “My main goal is to provide the best living environment for my community while I am in office,” he said.
Johnson will hold a second Town Hall Meeting & Report at the Inghram Community Center, 2050 N. Mt Vernon Avenue beginning at 6:30 p.m. on June 25, 2009 to introduce San Bernardino’s new Chief of Police, Keith Kilmer.
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 on June 25th, please contact Rikke Van Johnson at the San Bernardino City Council Office at (909) 384-5188.
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Meet San Bernardino's New Police Chief Keith Kilmer
Meet San Bernardino Police Keith Kilmer at a reception hosted by The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, July 9.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) On Thursday, July 9, the Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce will host a reception for San Bernardino’s new police chief, Keith Kilmer.
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.
“Chief Kilmer started working for San Bernardino on June 1, so this is an opportunity for local community leaders and business owners to meet him, and hear his plans for keeping San Bernardino’s neighborhoods safe,” said Carl Dameron, president of the Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to working with him to improve public safety.”
Chief Kilmer has been a member of the Southern California law enforcement community for the past 27 years. Prior to his arrival in San Bernardino, he was police chief in Bell Gardens for three years, and served with the Long Beach Police Department for 24 years, rising to the rank of police commander.
Kilmer has been recognized for his efforts involving community policing programs, youth oriented programs, technology and crime prevention.
Chief Kilmer graduated from Western State University College of Law in Fullerton, in 1987, and has been a member of the California State Bar since 1988. He has attended numerous executive level training programs in law enforcement including the FBI National Academy, the Senior Management Institute for Police at Boston University, the California Command College and the West Point Leadership Program. He also served in the United States Army as a Military Police Officer and Canine Handler.
Chief Kilmer is married to Roberta and has four children, the oldest of which is currently involved in Ranger training with the United States Army. He plans to live in the City of San Bernardino.
The reception is free and refreshments are included. The event is co-sponsored by Castaway Restaurant & Banquet Center, San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson, Fontana Mayor Pro Tem Acquanetta Warren, and Dameron Communications.
For more information, or to RSVP, please call 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 Meeting With San Bernardino Police Chief Keith Kilmer
San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson, top photo, will host a Town Hall Meeting especially for Ward Six residents Thursday, June 25 at the Ingrham Community Center. Special guest will be Chief of Police Keith Kilmer, who began his job with San Bernardino on June 1.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) On Thursday, June 25, 2009 Mayor Pro Tem and Sixth Ward Councilman Rikke Van Johnson will host a Town Hall Briefing, with new Police Chief Keith Kilmer as his special guest.
The San Bernardino Employment Training Agency (SBETA) will also be present to talk about employment opportunities for youth and young adults. The meeting will take place at the Inghram Community Center, 2050 N. Mt Vernon Avenue, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
“This is an opportunity for Sixth Ward residents to meet their new chief of police and hear his plans for keeping San Bernardino’s neighborhoods safe in light of our city challenging economic conditions,” said Johnson, who has represented the Sixth Ward since 2004. “Keith Kilmer brings a wealth of experience in law enforcement and he is a lawyer too. I encourage everyone to come meet him and learn how we can work with him to keep San Bernardino safe.”
Chief Kilmer has been a member of the Southern California law enforcement community for the past 27 years. Prior to his arrival in San Bernardino, he was police chief in Bell Gardens for three years, and served with the Long Beach Police Department for 24 years, rising to the rank of police commander.
Kilmer has been recognized for his efforts involving community policing programs, youth oriented programs, technology and crime prevention.
Chief Kilmer graduated from Western State University College of Law in Fullerton, in 1987, and has been a member of the California State Bar since 1988. He has attended numerous executive level training programs in law enforcement including the FBI National Academy, the Senior Management Institute for Police at Boston University, the California Command College and the West Point Leadership Program. He also served in the United States Army as a Military Police Officer and Canine Handler.
Chief Kilmer is married to Roberta and has four children, the oldest of which is currently involved in Ranger training with the United States Army.
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 Briefing, please contact Mayor Pro Tem Rikke Van Johnson at the San Bernardino City Council Office at (909) 384-5378.
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Portfolio Show Gives Glimpse of Students Artistic Talent
(RIVERSIDE, Calif.) Every three months, The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire graduates a growing number of students who have the potential to change the world through art.
At the school’s quarterly Graduate Portfolio Review, held for the newest graduates on Tuesday, June 16 at Riverside Art Museum, the students show just how they may accomplish this artistic endeavor. Graduating students display the artwork they’ve done in class, and in some cases, work created for paid clients.
“It is the students’ unique artistic talents, coupled with the skills they have built as they studied for their degrees that will provide the foundation for them to become professional artists,” said Cindy Jones, director of career services for The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire and a former art gallery owner. “This show will give them additional exposure to employers in search of artistically talented people.”
Harry Bajwa of Q Vantage, a software development company, agrees.
“This show is perfect for us,” he said. “We need artistically creative people, which is one thing we lack. Here, I can see what these students are capable of, and obtain contact information from them to discuss our positions.”
Although, the Graduate Portfolio Review is an opportunity for students to network with potential employers, some students have already accepted positions with companies that need the skills they obtained in their studies.
Karena Pavon of Moreno Valley earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Design, and began work Wednesday as a graphic designer, t-shirt designer and fashion photographer for Privacy Wear, a fashion design company in Corona that sells its label to Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Dillards and many upscale fashion boutiques.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire held its first Graduate Portfolio Show in December 2008.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degree programs 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 program in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in Fashion Design.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers an Associate degree program in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree program 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.
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Monday, June 22, 2009
High School Students Show Their Artistic Flair At Summer Studio
Current students and staff at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire have already assisted The Salvation Army in various ways this year, such as these Interior Design students surrounding Capt. Stephen Ball, San Bernardino Corps commander. This week, it is high school students’ turn to assist The Salvation Army. They will do so by participating in Summer Studio 2009, a four-day experience July 23-26 where they will learn about an Art Institutes program while creating a poster for The Salvation Army. Students, left to right, are Belen Martinez, Liyi Martinez, Vickie Anaya Evon Arredondo, Natalie Ustariz, Tracy Ho, Ivan Valles and Veronica K. Gonzales.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) High school juniors and seniors, and recent high school graduates, will show off their artistic flair this month by putting their creative talents to work for The Salvation Army.
Summer Studio, an annual program of The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire, has 35 students enrolled from the Inland Empire cities of Fontana, San Bernardino, Adelanto, Hesperia, Riverside, Murrieta, Winchester, Norco, Moreno Valley, Indio, Palm Springs, Coachella and Yucaipa.
Summer Studio takes place from June 23-26. Students will create design work for The Salvation Army.
“Summer Studio gives these students a snapshot of what The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire does for its students,” said Director of Admissions Louie Garcia.
Students participating in Summer Studio have a passion for art, and so Summer Studio often leads to enrollment after high school graduation in The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire, Garcia explained.
“Many of these students have known since they were 5, 6 or 7 years old that this is what they want to do. They draw very well. They cook very well. They were always experimenting with fashion in junior high and high school. For them, coming here is more of a connection. It helps the students determine if they want to pursue a creative education.”
Most students will work in three teams to help create a poster that The Salvation Army will give major donors to show appreciation to them, Garcia said.
Those learning about the Graphic Design program will have the overall responsibility for designing The Salvation Army’s poster. Assisting them will be students learning abut The Art Institute of California –Inland Empire’s two fashion programs (Fashion Design and Fashion & Retail Marketing), and those learning about its Media Arts & Animation program.
“The fashion students will put together a color story and other design components for the poster, much as they would in fashion merchandising,” Garcia said. “The Media Arts & Animation students are very talented artistically. They will help produce the electronic version of this poster, so The Salvation Army can send it as an email attachment.”
Meanwhile, students who are interested in the Culinary Arts program, will be charged with catering lunches for the rest of the crew.
Many of the students will stay in group lodging for a “summer art camp” type experience. In the evening, the students will enjoy recreation together such as movies and bowling. They will give a presentation to The Salvation Army on the last morning of Summer Studio and the final evening is a “wrap” party for the students and their parents.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degree programs 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 program in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in Fashion Design.
The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire offers an Associate of Science degree program in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor of Science degree program 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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Friday, June 19, 2009
Smart Riverside Informs IE Tech Professionals
Steve Reneker, executive director of Smart Riverside, welcomes guests to the Inland Empire Tech Week. Riverside, the largest city in the Inland Empire, is one of many cities in the region embracing new ways to use technology to more efficiently deliver government services to its people. Its “Smart Riverside” agency works to promote technology in the private and public sectors, and sponsored IE Tech Week.
Jason Diehl, academic director for Web Design & Interactive Media at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire, tells about the importance of technology in the lives of college students and other young people. Diehl was the keynote speaker for The Inland Empire Software Summit, one of the key presentations during IE Tech Week.
Carl Dameron, president of the Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce, welcomes guests to the Inland Empire Tech Week, where they learned what entrepreneurs in the Inland Empire are doing with technology and to promote technology business in the Inland Empire.
(RIVERSIDE, Calif.) Inland Empire Technology Week 2009, sponsored by Smart Riverside informed technology professionals in the Inland Empire on where technology is, and where it is headed.
The five-day event brought together technology companies, entrepreneurs, government and business leaders. The goal was to promote the Inland Empire as a region for technology companies to relocate and grow.
Day One kicked off with a Tech Expo at the Riverside Convention Center. More than 700 attendees came together discussing specific issues affecting the tech industries. More than 100 vendors and booths displayed their high technology businesses. Presentations were given from high profile IT professionals such as: Nate Johnson with ESRI who spoke on understanding customers and constituents.
Day Two offered a Google Workshop and Tech Employment Trends 2009 by Robert Half International and Protiviti, also held at the Riverside Convention Center.
Adam Massey, Senior Sales Manager, Google Apps and Deborah Hafford, Regional Sales Manager presented the latest business applications provided from the web browser with software and data stored through the Google platform.
“The productivity suite was specifically why I attended the Google workshop and it exceeded my expectations,” said Leyden Hahn, Chief Technology Officer, Information Technology Department for the City of Riverside.
The presentation walked through different applications, specifically demonstrating the different capabilities that can be personalized through the various layers of the platform.
Keith Montgomery and Jon Bronson presented the latest IT employment trends in the Inland Empire and the importance of IT governance with an organization. This was also an opportunity to network with fellow IT executives and consultants.
Montgomery is the branch manager for Robert Half Technology in the Inland Empire. His mission is to drive more knowledge workers to the region. His presentation served both the current and future IT community.
Bronson is a Director in Protivit’s Los Angeles Risk Consulting Practice. His presentation focused on how factors such as customer perception and the effective management and execution of key foundational processes and controls within an IT function can enhance value at an organization. He also discussed how frameworks such as ITIL are being used by organizations to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of IT operations.
Day Three was Tech Horizons 2009 held at University of Riverside, Bourns College of Engineering. The subject titled, Aware Sensor Systems: The next Revolution In Safety and Security focused emerging technologies and innovations in areas such as intelligent networking, video and other sensor technologies, biometrics, security and situational understanding.
Day Four was the Fast-Pitch Competition at Cal State San Bernardino. Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship and the Tech Coast Angels hosted this venture financing panel session and concluded with 12 entrepreneurs, which were given 90-second pitches to a panel of investors and other members of the Southern California’s entrepreneurial community.
Day Five wrapped up IE Tech Week, the first ever IE Software Summit was held at the City Hall, Grier Pavilion rooftop. The Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce hosted the complimentary event. The summit focused on getting ready for the smart phones – how to make your website ready for Smart Phones, PDA’s, and iPhone’.
“This technology has a huge impact on the business world. An e-commerce site owner needs to ask, ‘Is my site compatible with mobile users?’” said Carl Dameron, President of the Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce and Dameron Communications.
“People under the age of 21 access the Internet primarily through mobile devices, whether it’s e-mailing, texting, social networking sites and/or downloading music. If your website is not accessible to those consumers, you are missing out on a huge market segment,” said Dameron.
The summit’s keynote was Jason Diehl, Academic Director for Web Design & Interactive Media at The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire. Diehl’s topic was “Evolution to Revolution” with the smart phone. He expanded the mobile companies drive for innovation by interacting the web mobile devices.
“This economy is really helping mobile device industries to force people to be more creative,” said Diehl.
Also featured was a “Meet the Funders” panel discussion that included angel investors and venture capitalist. Mark Mitchell, Executive Director of Tri-Tech hosted the panel discussion. The panelist explained the importance of integrity, competency and passion when pitching to any investor.
“The City of Riverside is evolving as a high technology community with over 40,000 college students leading the future of our community technology vision and direction for the future. As the chairman of SmartRiverside, my goal is to continue to attract and develop high technology companies to our Technology Park and utilize the talents of the high skilled labor in our community to foster a SmartRiverside” - Ron Loveridge, Mayor City of Riverside
Chairman of Smart Riverside.
For more information about next year’s IE Tech Week you can call Steve Reneker, Executive Director for Smart Riverside at (951) 826-5109 or go online to http://www.riversideca.gov/ietechweek/.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Interior Designers Create More Than Just A Pretty Place
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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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.
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