Meet Amber Shana Williams from the hit TV series, The Chosen

FOOD + BEVERAGE
BEST KEPT SECRETS
CHINO VALLEY'S LITTLE ITALY
WELLNESS
SCAN & WIN A DAY AT GLEN IVY HOT SPRINGS!
Meet Amber Shana Williams from the hit TV series, The Chosen
FOOD + BEVERAGE
BEST KEPT SECRETS
CHINO VALLEY'S LITTLE ITALY
WELLNESS
SCAN & WIN A DAY AT GLEN IVY HOT SPRINGS!
Whether you’re dining in or having us cater your special event, we hope that a meal with us feels like one with family.
We’re the neighborhood Italian restaurant where you can enjoy quality food at affordable prices.
From bruschetta to antipasto salad and more, we’re committed to providing the Chino community with authentic flavors using recipes passed down generations.
» You’re a business owner / self employed
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Allow our team to assist you with your home loan services.
Thank you so much for continuing to engage with this incredible vehicle to share community events, to learn about the incredible business owners and artists of our community and to celebrate life here in the Chino Valley! This issue takes a closer look at the WOMEN of Chino Valley! Thank you to our artists, crafty creatives and our deeply thoughtful and elegant business owners. You are what makes this community brilliant!
Congratulations to all of the ladies featured in this month's issue. Special thanks to Raybecca Panowicz, Jacklyn Pop, Amber Shana Williams, Jacque Ellington, Pete Garrido, William Michael Anderson, Michael Jones Grady, Curtis Bloom, Lori Arias, Sandy Graham, Tawana Cullen, Sinclair Andruska, Cammy Du, Julie Cannataro, Ashley Nelson, Michael Cannataro, Raina Huang, Dolce, Belinda, and Lilly of Trio Sol De Amores and the creators and marketing department behind the Angel Studios television series: The Chosen.
Please take special note that EVERY issue will offer some incredible prizes!! Last month, we gave away round-trip tickets to Hawaii! This month we are giving away a health and wellness package to Glen Ivy Hot Springs in honor of Mother’s Day! Scan the QR code on page 7 to win! In partnership with Avrio Media.
PUBLISHER
Kat Anderson | kat.anderson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Tawanna Cullen | tawanna.cullen@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sinclair Andruska and Michael Jones Grady
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Curtis Bloom, William Michael Anderson
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
1: Brother’s Love: This quilt is in honor of Aiden’s younger 16 year old brother, Lukas @quiltedlegacies 2: Father and Daughter Forever: A quilt dedicated to a late infant and late husband @quiltedlegacies 3: Grunt Boys: 3 quilts for 3 boys that Honor and Respect our Service Members @quiltedlegacies 4: Together Forever Pillows: A memory of parents, pillows for each Daughter. Created by Quilted Legacies @quiltedlegacies 5: A closer look at the work of artist, Lori Arias @arias.arts 6: Lori Arias showcasing her incredible art with Interior Designer, Jacque Ellington of Innovative Design Concepts @arias.arts 7: Canabru perfects every drink to your satisfaction and enjoyment @canabru
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The Inn at Churon Winery offers hotel leisure and luxury with picturesque panoramic views of vineyards and majestic snow-capped mountains in the distance. Our guests are welcomed with 2 complimentary glasses of wine and a madeto-order breakfast each morning. All of our suites feature individual private terraces or balconies, jacuzzi jet tubs, walk-in showers, and fireplaces. Unwind in our tasting room, which is open 7 days a week. Visit innatchuronwinery.com or call 951-694 9070
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We have an insider look at one of the prestigious stars of “The Chosen,” a spiritual and artistic phenomenon bringing the story of Jesus Christ and his Apostles to your phone, tablet and streaming on your TV. It’s been seen by millions and funded by hundreds of thousands as it depends on small and large donations to continue each episode, making it a true community of engaged and passionate fans. The Chosen has also been shown in movie theatres nationwide including here in Chino Valley.
We are so excited to share with you our interview with Amber Shana Williams who portrays “Tamar” on the Chosen, a woman who is drawn into the world of the Jewish Messiah while being a sort of outsider from the culture and traditions.
Amber is a glowing and radiant person, a fabulous actor and a very intuitively convicted person. We will share with you some of
our lengthy and deep talks with this talented and deeply grounded young actress.
“The honeymoon is over! I was just as shocked as the fans (in fact—I am a fan) at how amazing Season 3 turned out--at how captivating, how relatable, and how it forced us to look into the mirror at the reflection of who we are and the challenges we face every day. It got me excited for Season 4…it keeps getting better every season. I think our kind of family dynamic transcends…. A lot of research goes into everything that Dallas Jenkins (creator, director, co-writer) and the writers bring to the screen. They’ve done their due diligence and they’ve made sure that we are as authentic as possible which shocks me because there are things in it that I didn’t even know and I grew up in the church.”
“Tamar represents the Gentile population and one of the first converts to follow Jesus Christ. We can say that she is a representative of all those who are considered “the others” at some point in time. It’s really beautiful to watch the transition she goes through. It’s not an easy one whatsoever to go from non-believing and being one way, then becoming another. It’s been quite the journey for her. I know this is not even a fraction of what’s coming on her journey. I do think a lot of people can relate to her in many ways. Like most of us are, once we decide to take this journey and follow Jesus, it’s become a learning experience all around, on all sides. Tamar is someone we can all aspire to be because she ran toward him (Jesus) with all of her heart and spirit and being. He accepted her with open arms. There were no qualms, no argument about her being the “other” or the gentile, this foreigner being a part of this group of followers. There was this brilliant display of acceptance and love. Tamar inspires me because her faith has been a theme across every season.”
Amber laughed many times with us. Her laughter was contagious to the point of a powerful celebration concerning authority in her beliefs and the tenacity that Tamar delivers:
“There is a lesson to be learned as well, with how she handles her journey. She does it with the brights on, with the speaker up and there is no shame about it. I think we could all learn to be followers like this, to not be shameful…to face our trials and tribulations head-on and I love the writing because it makes it easier, it kind of just jumps off the page if you know what I mean?
“She’s a gentile. She’s a foreigner. She speaks another language. She’s a woman. At this time, it wasn’t common for a woman to be so outspoken. For me, that’s the way we should fall along…being loud and proud about our decision to follow Christ, but at the same time not above being compassionate and kind. These are the things we want to remember as well, she’s compassionate, kind and understanding. She’s so loving and takes care of those around her. For me, it’s been such a privilege and an honor to be able to portray her on screen, because she is an expansion of those that actually existed back in this time.
“At this time, it wasn’t common for a woman to be so outspoken. For me, that’s the way we should fall along… being loud and proud about our decision to follow Christ”
THE REMODELING WORLD CAN BE DAUNTING FOR HOMEOWNERS. THIS LOCAL DESIGN COMPANY MAKES IT SIMPLE.
Our homes are some of the most intimate places in our lives. It’s where we celebrate life and where we grow. As we change, so do our needs. You want a team behind you to help you achieve your dream home, and Innovative Design Concepts is here to help.
The Chino Valley-based company was established in 2007, serving the Inland Empire for over 15 years. Innovative Design Concepts provides services that cover all remodeling options, from DIY renovators needing to purchase specific materials, to homeowners wanting to revamp their entire kitchen or home. Whatever your remodel journey looks like, IDC has a collaborative design-to-build process that is flexible to your interior design ideas.
Their retail showroom has a vast and continually updated selection of material samples including
custom-built and stock cabinetry, backsplashes, stone slab countertops fabricated on-site, and an array of flooring options as well. While their location features a showroom, they are also a design studio where clients can make appointments with IDC’s designer on a remodeling project, and set up design meetings at the project site.
One standout quality of Innovative Design Concepts is their commitment to understanding their client's goals and making them happen. Leave your stress behind with IDC’s team of builders who are dedicated to constructing your dream home with your needs in mind.
If you want a team who works with integrity and ensures the best quality for your everyday spaces, Innovative Design Concepts is the company to trust.
We asked Chino Valley Locals about their beloved neighborhood spots you must try and what they had to say.
Noodology is great for food and a chill vibe. Her favorite dish is Beef Noodle Soup. It’s spicy and savory. For tasty desserts, try Cafe 86’s delicious desserts and handcrafted drinks. Raina recommends the Ube Cupcake with Flan on top. You probably won’t find this elsewhere!
LORI ARIASVisual
Our local neighborhood treasure, The Pub at Chino Hills has a delicious Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich. The taste of spicy buttermilk-brined chicken, lemon aioli, Nashville sauce, pepper jack cheese, green leaf lettuce, and tomato on a brioche bun is delicious! Stop by this Modern Gastropub and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere with the feel of an upscale restaurant.
Trio Sol De Amores
If you want to try delicious food in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, Yoshiharu Japanese Ramen is it! Our favorite dish is Tonkotsu Black Miso Ramen. It’s so savory and tasty! For desserts, try the Baked Dessert Bar at the Shoppes. They have a variety of unique flavors of pastries!
ArtistIG: @arias.arts ariasarts.com
I love Cannataro’s. It’s cozy, and personal, like being at a good friend’s house. The Chicken Cacciatore is simply delicious! For dessert, their Tiramisu is a must! Cannataro’s does a lot for our community, so when you give them your business you are helping to give back to our community and getting great food while doing it.
Mascot for Quilted Legacies. I love everything delicious from Kahoot’s Pet Store in Chino Hills. My favorite treat is their grain-free peanut butter and honey biscuits! Made by Kahoot’s!
We can help you with more than 25 years of experience, our customers are 100% satisfied, if you need storage, we have solutions. Home offices? Closets? Garage Cabinets, Pantries, and Entertainment Centers!
The Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce (IERCC) supports commerce and economic prosperity throughout Riverside & San Bernardino Counties. The IERCC provides a platform for senior-level executives to engage, cultivate relationships, and conduct business with like-minded business professionals from the Inland Empire region. Many of our members are stakeholders actively contributing to the Inland Empire business economy’s growth and advancement.
Cannataro's is a family owned restaurant offering mouth watering Italian cuisine conforming to fresher, more flavorful options. The restaurant offers organic and low carb as well as cage free, antibiotic free chicken as well as gluten friendly dishes!
Julie is a fan of healthy eating and long ago added zoodles to the menu! Zoodles are a wonderful low carb option, made fresh, out of zucchini noodles usually with a turkey meat sauce! Any of the pastas at Cannataro's can be made with zoodles. When you
come to Cannataro's, if you are looking for a healthier option, all you have to do is ask for zoodles and substitute any sauce! You can add mushrooms, different veggies, you can make it primavera style, whatever you like. These are the things Cannataro's does to cater to people on a diet or who think Italian has to be fattening. It doesn't have to!
Julie was asked what she thought about al dente. If you don't know, 'al dente' is an Italian term meaning cooked so as not to be too soft; firm to the bite.
CONTINUED >
Friends of Cannataro’s frequent the lunch specials. A favorite is the pasta bolognese with ground beef and Italian sausage sauteed in olive oil, garlic, basil, herbs, marinated in tomato sauce. Janette Caballero and her husband, Mario, have been coming to the restaurant for 20 years. It is their family’s favorite Italian spot. Janette told us with great enthusiasm, “The food always tastes delicious and authentic. It offers a wonderful family environment. No mainstream commercial Italian restaurant funny business at this place,” she says. Another patron, Nancy Gonzalez says, “It’s how they greet you and I just had the Pasta e Fagioli and it’s unbelievable! Not like other restaurants.” Nancy drives all the way from Montebello about an hour away in traffic just to experience a taste of Italy here in Chino Valley!
“Cannataro’s is a family owned restaurant offering mouth watering Italian cuisine conforming to fresher, more flavorful options.”
The moms and the mother figures in our lives mean everything to us. They deserve the best every day, of course. But at least one day out of the year, we get to shower them with the same love and thoughtfulness they give to us so selflessly.
This year, we hope you’ll consider some memorable ways to make lasting memories with the mom or mother figure in your life. If you haven’t already planned something special, take a look at our list of ideas and circle your favorites. If you have kids, let them join in the fun too!
Whether you decide to spend a day at home or enjoy a day on the town, these innovative celebration ideas will include fun for the whole family and make Mom feel loved. Whatever activity or surprise you land on to show your mom, wife, sister or maternal figure your appreciation for all they do, the most important thing is that you all get to spend some quality time together.
Mother’s Day arrives just as spring is in full bloom. Take advantage of the season by going to a flower arranging class with mom.
If Mom likes strategizing, challenge her to a friendly board game competition. (And, no, you don’t have to let her win just because it’s Mother’s Day.)
This activity is especially fun if you have a lot of kids who want to get in on the action. Then, when you all get home, you can whip up a treat for Mom with your selections. (Maybe give her a strawberry in a Champagne glass while she waits.)
There’s no day like Mother’s Day to be impulsive! Book a weekend trip for the two of you at a cute B&B in a city Mom has always wanted to visit.
Find a puzzle with an image you know your mom will love (or make a custom one using a photo of the two of you) and put it together over wine and snacks. You’ll be amazed at how much chatting you can get done while puzzling.
Go to a play or a musical — lots of towns even host outdoor theater events.
Whether you make the brews and treats yourself or head out to an official tea house, Mom will love sipping her beverage out of fancy china and snacking on tea sandwiches.
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OUR VISION
The OTIS Academy is the Golden Pond and the Golden Bridge for Academia & Business.
Where do we start? We will start where our services are needed most: the Great City of San Bernardino.
THE GOLDEN POND
Unwind, Connect, Rejuvenate at one of our newest Five Room Micro Resorts
Adults Only Private Cabanas
Salt Water Pool
Luxurious Robes
Located in the Heart of Temecula Wine Country Minutes from all Local Wineries
951.514.6159 | temeculavacationvillas.com
Discover a Whole New World Just an Hour Away
The OTIS Academy is the Golden Pond, where youthful talent from high schools and colleges are trained for companies to find and recruit.
THE GOLDEN BRIDGE
The Golden Bridge is where talent finds the connection that takes them from academia to the business world through internships and apprenticeship programs.
OUR MISSION
• Help our youth of all cultures and ethnicities find and develop their talents.
• Provide our youth with a platform and environment to succeed in the 21st Century Economy. Connect youth to internships, case studies, and Project-Based Learning (PBL).
• Support small business with knowledgeable & talented industry professionals.
• Build mutually beneficial partnerships that will benefit OTIS and the community alike. Set the standard for personal & professional development.
Help OTIS Create a Better Tomorrow
For more information contact Eddy Sumar: Call (909) 481-9869 or email eddy@iechamber.org
“OTIS will be one of THE LARGEST initiatives this region has ever seen.”
A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.
MAY 6TH
Lightwire Theater’s The Ugly Duckling
12505 CULTURAL CENTER DRIVE RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA 91739 | 7:00 PM
The Ugly Duckling classic tale gets a modern twist in an unforgettable theatrical experience by Lightwire Theater— NBC’s America’s Got Talent semi-finalist and winners of Tru TV’s Fake Off. Lined with electroluminescent wire, the beloved story of The Ugly Duckling plays out on stage through a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology, and dance. For tickets visit goldstar.com/events/rancho-cucamonga-ca/lightwire-theaters-the-ugly-duckling-tickets
MAY 13TH
Lady Antebellum
1101 W MCKINLEY AVE, POMONA, CA 91768 | 7:30 PM
Country music royalty, Lady Antebellum has set out on the more intimate Request Line Tour, where fans call in their favorite songs. No two shows will be the same. Dave Haywood said "...there's something truly special about being close to your audience and having the flexibility to include the fans in how the show goes" For tickets visit los-angeles-theatre.com/theaters/los-angeles-county-fair/lady-a.php
MAY 14TH
Mama Mimosa's Market
33233 RANCHO CALIFORNIA RD, TEMECULA, CA 92591 | 12:00 PM
Mark your Calendars for the Inn at Churon Winery Mother's Day Champagne Brunch followed by a Mamas market! Enjoy live music and hilltop wine country views with Mama while shopping locally-owned small businesses. Visit innatchuronwinery.com or call 951-694-9070 for more information. 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
MAY 19TH-20TH
Miss Saigon
562 W. FOURTH STREET SAN BERNARDINO, CA 92401 | 8:00 PM
A tragedy of passion and beauty, Miss Saigon, is one of the most stunning theatrical spectacles of all time. Nominated for an incredible number of Olivier, Tony, and Drama Desk Awards, Miss Saigon is the second massively successful offering from the creators of Les Misérables, Claude-Michel Schönberg, and Alain Boublil. For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com/miss-saigon-san-bernardino-california-05-20-2023/event/09005CF109393EB2
MAY 20TH-21TH
2000 E. CONVENTION CENTER WAY ONTARIO, CA 91764 | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM | 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Comic-Con fever hits the Inland Empire with Comic-Con Revolution. So suit up in your best cosplay and get ready for a jam-packed fun day. Expect over 300 exhibitors including comic creators, new comic dealers, vintage comic dealers, comic publishers, toy & collectibles vendors, crafts, costumes, clothing, cosplayers, fan groups, media stars, and more. For tickets and information, visit goldstar.com/events/ontario-ca/comic-con-revolution-tickets
MAY 20TH
1101 W. MCKINLEY AVE., POMONA, CA 91768 | 7:30 PM
Chaka Khan is one of the world’s most gifted and celebrated musicians, with a rich musical legacy, the 10-time GRAMMY® Award-winner is looking forward to a celebration of a lifetime. Chaka Khan has influenced generations and has the rare ability to sing in seven music genres, including R&B, pop, rock, gospel, country, jazz, and classical. For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com/chaka-khan-pomona-california-05-20-2023/event/09005E24FFA65595
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/ChinoValley
MOTHER’S DAY EVENT
May 14th, 10am - 5pm
CHAMPAGNE MIMOSA BRUNCH 10AM-2PM
HAND-CRAFTED GOODS & LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS MARKET 12 PM-5 PM
LIVE MUSIC
CHURON TASTING ROOM OPEN LIKE USUAL 10 AM-5 PM
AWESOME GIVEAWAYS FROM CHURON & OTHER LOCAL BUSINESSES