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May 30, 2025
Season 7, Episode 8
Airdate: May 29th, 2025
In our May episode of Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America, in our Impact segment, we interview the head of Beacon Economics for insight into the current state of the economy. Then, our Spotlight highlights Mission Hope’s Empowerment Village, a nonprofit that assists single mothers struggling with housing and food insecurity. Plus, our Community Roundtable segment discusses what’s currently happening with the Southwest Riverside economy. Our Voice of Innovation segment shines a light on Young Black & N’Business, a networking organization created to help small business owners and entrepreneurs. With temperatures rising, Aryn’s Corner provides great suggestions for local, fun summer activities. DigiFest 2025 and our Spring Showcase were both massive successes! Check out both recaps to catch a glimpse of the connections, creativity, and magic! We also look ahead to our annual Summer Camp and our upcoming three-day Arts Across America event. Don’t miss these promos for a taste of what’s to come! Finally, in our Good-To-Know, we discover how a school of endangered Southern California Steelhead Trout is thriving after a big move.
Impact – Economic Update
Over the past few months, the news has been talking about the falling consumer confidence index.. But are consumers really spooked, setting us up for a weakened economy? Or are there other factors at play? Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America Executive Director and Co-host Diane Strand interviews Dr. Christopher Thornberg, the head of Beacon Economics., to break down the real story behind the headlines.
Spotlight – Mission Hope
Mission Hope, a nonprofit organization based in California’s Temecula Valley, has a mission to “partner with our community to provide access to healthy food, housing programs and resources that equip and empower those we serve to live life to the fullest.” The organization’s Empowerment Village gives single moms comprehensive support, empowering them to thrive as confident leaders in their families and community.
Community Roundtable
The economic outlook for Southwest Riverside County takes center stage at the roundtable, as Christine Damko, Economic Development Manager for the City of Temecula, and Gina Gonzalez, Director of Economic and Legislative Affairs for the City of Lake Elsinore, discuss growing industries, infrastructure, and other key topics.
VOI – Young Black and N’Business
Founded by Roosevelt Williams III, Young Black and N’Business is a networking organization created to help provide a platform for emerging entrepreneurs.
Aryn’s Corner
With temperatures heating up, our SOI team highlights some fun summer activity options in Riverside County!
Coin- Op
28588 Old Town Front St, Temecula, CA 92590
Diamond Stadium of Lake Elsinore
500 Diamond Dr, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
Epic Rollertainment
39809 Avenida Acacias, Murrieta, CA 92563
Dropzone Waterpark
2165 Trumble Rd, Perris, CA 92570
Motte Historical Car Museum
28380 CA-74, Sun City, CA 92585
Spring Showcase / Summer Camp Tease & Recap
Another incredible Spring Showcase is in the books! We transported audiences to a whole new world with our musical theater production of Aladdin Jr. Plus, we also celebrated the hard work of our filmmaking class as they premiered their films. Summer camp is right around the corner! There are only 20 spots available! Don’t miss the fun and secure your spot now!
Arts Across America Promo
Calling all creatives! Arts Across America – the latest business venture launched by JDS Creative Academy co-founders Diane and Scott Strand – is here to help you turn your passion into a profit. Learn more at our three-day Arts Across America event on August 21st, 22nd, and 23rd.
DigiFest Recap
DigiFest 2025 was a huge success! From our incredible speakers to our amazing live music entertainment and captivating film, video, and animation screenings, we pushed the boundaries of digital creation! Submissions for DigiFest 2026 open in October 2025, so mark your calendars for the festival’s 10th anniversary on April 24th, 25th, and 26th, 2026.
Good-To-Know
Over 200 endangered Southern California Steelhead Trout were moved from LA County’s Topanga Creek after surviving the Palisades fire, to Santa Barbara County’s Arroyo Hondo Creek, and the fish are flourishing.
