Inland Empire Weekly December 11 2014

Inland Empire Weekly

IECN

Features, Lifestyle & News You Can Use!

Vol 10, NO. 17

Free Healthcare Enrollment Fair in San Bernardino

Highland Senior Center Serves Up Thanksgiving Meal

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Breast Cancer Survivors “Pay it Forward” A10

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

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Sophia Gomez, 8, and Ginny Zahm shop for Christmas gifts for Sophia’s family as part of a holiday shopping spree for Redlands youth. of being in the holiday spirit. gifts for her family before choosBy Yazmin Alvarez One of more than 80 elementary ing any items for herself. t only eight-years-old, school children from the Redlands “If I have enough, I want to get Sophia Gomez under- area that was treated to a $100 holstands the true meaning iday shopping spree at Walmart, Shopping, cont. on next pg.

Sophia chose to pick Christmas

Asistencia, Heritage Park hold first holiday celebration

Community organization seeking toothbrush donations A20

INSIDE ONE SECTION, 20 PAGES

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HOW TO REACH US Inland Empire Community Newspapers Office: (909) 381-9898 Fax: (909) 384-0406 Editorial: iecn1@mac.com Advertising: sales@iecn.com

December 11, 2014

Redlands youth treated to holiday shopping spree

THISWEEK

Calendar Classifieds Legal Notices Opinion Service Dir. Sports

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IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Santa joins in on pioneer-style games during a holiday celebration at The Asistencia in Redlands.

By Yazmin Alvarez

t was a step back in time last week as the holiday season was celebrated at the historic Asistencia and Heritage Park in Redlands.

From handmade wooden toys to making fruit ornaments, children and guests were excited about the opportunity to celebrate Christmas just as those did in the 1800’s.

The event—a collaboration between the San Bernardino

County Museum, the Redlands stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other community organizations—was an opportunity for the Asistencia Holiday, cont. on next pg.

union of healthcare workers invites the public to attend a free healthcare enrollment event Dec. 16 at St. Bernardine Medical Center, 2101 N. Waterman Ave., in San Bernardino.

The health fair will run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and is designed to help people sign-up for free and low-cost health coverage through Medi-Cal or Covered California.

The event is sponsored by SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW), a healthcare workers union with 150,000 members in California which enrolled 12,000 Californians in health coverage during the last open enrollment period.

Each person enrolling needs to bring: 1) Proof of identity such as a photo ID, driver’s license or passport; 2) Proof of address such as a piece of postmarked mail; 3) Proof of income such as the last 30 days of paystubs or tax filings from 2013; 4) Proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate, permanent resident card, or certificate of citizenship or naturalization; and 5) Date of birth, social security number, and home ZIP code for each family member.

For questions about enrollment, the public may contact the SEIU-UHW hotline at (888) 920-4517. Open enrollment in Medi-Cal and Covered California runs through Feb. 15, 2015.

Got News?

Have news, an event or want to recognize someone in the Inland area?

Send information to Community News Editor Yazmin Alvarez at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com or call 909-381-9898 ext. 207.

Page A2 • December 11, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers • Inland Empire Weekly

Santa arrived by motorcycle, escorting nearly 100 children to participate in a $100 holiday spree at Walmart in Redlands.

Shopping, cont. from front

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Sophia, as did the other children, shopped with the help of a volunteer, some youngsters were even paired up with Redlands police.

“It’s great to see their eyes light up with joy,” said Ginny Zahm, who shopped with Sophia. “This opportunity definitely reminds you what the holiday season is about.”

this puppy,” she said of stuffed animal. “But first, I want to get my mom jewelry, my dad some cologne and my baby cousins some toys. Christmas is about being kind, giving and being thankful for lots of family. It’s nice that I get to do this and it feels good, so I want my family to have a good Christmas, too.”

The annual spree was made possible by Youth Ministries at Pathway Church, Redlands Christian Yazmin Alvarez is a reporter Center and the Redlands Police De- with Inland Empire Community partment, who made Santa’s arrival Newspapers and can be reached at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com. by motorcycle possible.

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Sophia Gomez, 8, and Ginny Zahm. After selecting gifts for her family, Sophia chose to take home a stuffed animal with the remaining funds from her $100 shopping spree.

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Redlands police were among the volunteers heling children shop for Christmas gifts.

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

2014 Holiday shopping spree at Walmart for Redlands youth.

Children crafted ornaments out of oranges and cloves as part of the holiday activities at The Asistencia’s first holiday celebration Dec. 6.

Holiday, cont. from front added. to 3 p.m. Admission fees are: $5 As part of the festivities, guests adult, $4 senior/military, $2.50 stuto come to life again, said the mu- and volunteers were dressed in dent/child, under 5 free. seum’s interim director, Kim 1880’s style clothing and made orTurpin. naments from oranges and cloves, “It’s great to see so much life here sipped on apple cider and played once again,” Turpin said. several pioneer-style games.

Yazmin Alvarez is a reporter The hope is hold several other The Asistencia is at 26930 Barton with Inland Empire Community community events to draw in Road in Redlands and is open Tues- Newspapers and can be reached guests to the historic site, she day through Saturday from 10 a.m. at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 11, 2014 • Page A3

Words to Think About: James Francis Durante

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By G. W. Abersold Ph.D.

ames Francis Durante was affectionately known as Jimmy Durante. However, he was better known by his unique name of Schnozzola. (From the Yiddish schnoz-nose) Jimmy was born on February 10, 1893 and died on January 29, 1980. He was the youngest of four children. Both of his parents were migrants from Salerno, Italy.

Durante dropped out of school in the eighth grade to become a full-

time ragtime pianist. Along with being a pianist, he was a unique singer, a comedian and an actor.

His voice was gravelly, his accent typical New Yorkese, his language was pure botchery and he always had a unique persona.

My adopted parents- Charles and Betty Miller- ran a string of racehorses, and I often visited them at the Del Mar racetrack. Inevitably Durante, Bing Crosby and Desi Arnes were in their own box.

Jimmy really loved the horses.

Jimmy Durante was a star on stage, the radio, movies and television. His personal sayings were famous. “Inka Dinka Du,” “Good Night, Mrs. Calabash,” “Dat’s Moral Turpentine,” “I’ve Got A Million of ‘Em,” were only a few of his crazy sayings.

But my favorite of all of them is one that has a powerful truth in it.

“Everybody has a Schnozzle.” His nose was an aberration. He made fun of Danny Thomas’ nose by calling him “Little nose.” Jimmy had an unusually large schnoz.

Just think about it. Everyone, just about all, really do have something about them that is out of the ordi-

Crafton Hills College accepting applications for 2015 Fire Academy

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rafton Hills College in Yucaipa is accepting applications for its spring 2015 Fire Academy, which begins with a cadet orientation on January 20, 2015. Applications will be accepted through January 5, 2015.

The CHC Fire Academy is an extremely intensified training program with heavy emphasis on personal safety through self-discipline, teamwork and skills development. The 16-unit Academy is completed in 13 weeks and will be conducted at the CAL FIRE Headquarters Facility at 3800 N. Sierra Way in North San Bernardino. As a bonus, cadets who complete the Academy will not only meet the State Fire Marshal’s Basic Skill requirements for Firefighter I Certification, but also receive CAL FIRE Basic Wildland Firefighter Certification.

Applicants must have the following prerequisites: • Completion of FIRET 100 (Fire Protection Organization) or equivalent.

• Completion of FIRET 101 (Fire Prevention Technology) or equivalent.

• Current copy of EMT Certification.

• Completed medical clearance for firefighters.

• Physical Abilities Test (C-PAT or Biddle) certificate current through April 30, 2015.

Once an application is received, an interview with the Fire Academy Chief will be scheduled.

For more information on this premiere Fire Academy or to access the application, go to www.craftonhills.edu/fireacademy or call 909-389-3418.

nary. Oprah has a weight problem.

President Obama has big ears.

Danny DeVito is very short. Jim Nabors is homely. To name a few.

But what about those that have “buck” teeth; or too skinny; or bow legged; or cross-eyed; or stutter like Mel Tillis; or one leg that is shorter; or a harelip; or pigeontoed; or a double chin; or a prominent birth mark; or a lisp. On and on.

Durante was right. “Everyone has a schnozzle.”

Durante was well known for his support of a number of agencies that benefited children. Above all he was strongly supportive of Veteran Hospitals and all servicemen.

One particular incident that was told about him, I’ve never forgotten. He had been invited to put on a show for wounded veterans at a hospital. His agent informed them that he was so busy he could only do a thirty minute show.

As Durante was introduced he was standing off stage. As the crowd roared with approval, they clapped with excitement. Looking from his vantage spot he saw two wounded veterans enthusiastically

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applauding. One had lost his left arm and the other his right arm.

They were clapping-each with the other using their good hands and arms. Jimmy Durante changed the time. He did a two hour performance.

At his funeral, four days after his death, scores of celebrities and well-wishers attended the service.

He was interred at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California.

It is impossible to calculate the influence and benefits he brought to others in his lifetime.

However, it seems to me there was a two-pronged message that his life and words projected: The word is COMPENSATE. Beginning with Sigmoid Freud many psychologists like Adler, Maslow, Glasser and Rogers defined compensate as a “defense mechanism.” As in making up for some defect or weakness.

Often couples that cannot have children “compensate” by adopting children, or becoming elementary school teachers.

Another major use for compensation is as a “coping strategy.” For

example many individuals that cannot make it themselves as a sports participant, use coaching as a coping strategy.

So it was with Jimmy Durante.

He was not handsome (big nose); he was a mediocre pianist; he was a lousy singer with a gravelly voice; and he wasn’t very smart-dropping out of school in the eighth grade.

He compensated, adapting humor into his looks using his schnoz. He played jazz-not having to read music. He made up melodies and used strange words in singing.Inka, dinka doo.

Durante was funny. His persona was attractive and he made the audience laugh. He was entertaining.

He possessed another quality that every public performer needs; whether they be comic, a minister or a politician-compassion. A caring attitude for the audience.

The memory of Jimmy the Schnoz Durante will last as long as we who heard him will live-and then longer.

Amen. Selah. So be it.

CalRTA Division 90 to hold bi-monthly meeting

alRTA ( California Retired Teachers Association) Division 90, including Fontana, Colton and Rialto, will be having their bi-monthly meeting on: Date: Wednesday 17 December

2014 at 11:00 at Blessed John Pork will be served. Price is XXIII Catholic Church, 222 E. $12.00. For reservations call or eEaston St., Rialto, CA. 92376 mail Wendy Bettar at (909) 9893194 or Program includes Leslie whbettar@verizon.net to confirm Knowles - Photo Presentation your attendance.

Baked Swiss Steak and Roast

OPINION&EDITORIAL Page A4 • December 11, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

A free health care enrollment event sponsored by SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West is scheduled in San Bernardino at St. Bernardine Medical Center, 2101 N. Waterman Ave. The health fair will run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and is designed to help people sign-up for free and low-cost health coverage through Medi-Cal or Covered California.

For information on enrollment requirements call 888-920-4517.

Yazmin Alvarez

Keep it simple, head out to Holiday Happenings

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s much as I’d like for my amazingly witty self to astound my fabulously fantastic avid readers with some insightful stellar writings for this week, I have some shocking news instead… I’ve got nothing.

Seriously.

I’m blank.

Sure I have plenty of things I’d like to spaz out about like the princess driver yesterday that was so busy reading her novel as she sped through a parking lot nearly squishing me into a pancake because well, she clearly mustn't have any other free time to read than while driving, or the fact that I pay a hefty phone bill for service that sucks with AT&T and can’t get reception in any place surrounded with oxygen or can’t hook on to wifi because towers or whatever makes only my phone work are down (yes, I hope someone from the company comes across this).

I spent a lot of time the last few days thinking about what to bring you guys this week, and finally when I stopped thinking (yes, insert joke here) it came to me!

KISS. Keep it simple, stupid.

So instead of rambling on filling space with nonsense like I usually do, I’m sticking to the basics here and providing some information on a few can’t miss happenings this month throughout the area and wherever else comes to mind.

Here you go, news you can use: Dec. 16 Healthcare Enrollment

Holiday Luau Luncheon Put on your favorite Hawaiian shirt and join the Joslyn Senior Center for a fun, holiday spirited luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m, at the center 21 Grant Street in Redlands. Dan Damon will provide the entertainment and a delicious meal will be provided

by Thomas Catering. The price is $5 per person with a patron card, $10 without.

Information and registration: 909-798-7550.

Dec. 18 Joy for Jackets Coffee Nutzz in Rialto presents a holiday event free for the community. Children will have the opportunity to meet Santa, enjoy Christmas stories and several activities. The event runs from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at coffee shop, 119 E Foothill Blvd.

Information: 909-874-2222.

Dec. 20 Santa in Rialto It’s a bird, it’s a plane it’s Santa arriving by helicopter.

The man of the season will fly into Rialto at Sunrise Church to visit with all the good boys and girls, ready to read their Christmas lists.

The free event begins at 2 p.m. but the line to meet Santa will start forming at noon and will close at 2:30 p.m.

Information: Call Cpl. Nelson at 909- 820-2515.

Dec. 26- Jan 1 Redlands on Ice The Redlands Chamber of Commerce will host the first-ever ice rink in downtown for the holiday season.

The rink will be open for one week from noon to 10 p.m.

Special events, classes and open skate times will be available.

General admission prices: $12 per hour ages 13 and up, $9 per hour for children 12 and younger.

Skate rental is $3.

Information: 909-793-2546.

YOUR COMMUNITY COMMENTARY!

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Great strides made in ‘five percent’ role-model goal

Earlier this year, I was able to meet Operation HOPE Founder, Chairman and CEO John Hope Bryant at a book signing for his newest book “How The Poor Can Save Capitalism.” He noted a study by the University of Chicago and cited in Malcom Gladwell’s “The Tipping Point” which said it only takes five percent of a community to act as role models to stabilize a community.

Incredible. Only five percent of positive role models are needed for our young people to be inspired by, aspire to be and view themselves in a new, more positive way.

I am a resident of Rialto (for more than 40 years), longtime employee of the Rialto Unified School District, parent of four RUSD high school graduates and grandparent of three students currently in RUSD schools. I believe we made great strides toward a five percent role model goal last month.

The district attorney missed the point and is perhaps campaigning too soon. Jon Stewart was talking about white cops killing black men. Although Stewart may be wrong about the cause of Dante Parker’s death, it fit in the category Stewart was referring.

The only way I can consider the DA Ramos’ numbers is if he breaks them down into the same context alluded to by Stewart.

How many of those 600 felony inToll lanes are very quickly coming to the 91 and 15 freeways in Riverside County and are the preferred alternative for the 10 Freeway expansion in San Bernardino County. Toll lanes are a resourcebased decision and reflect the need for transportation improvements which are, as of yet, unfunded.

Deadline is Tuesdays at noon. Readers may also submit their perspectives online at iecn1@mac.com • For advertising inquiries email iecnads@yahoo.com Colton Courier

Gloria Macías Harrison Bill Harrison Diana G. Harrison General Manager Diana G. Harrison Managing Editor Community News Editor Yazmin Alvarez Community News Editor Anthony Victoria Advertising/Classified Sales Bruce Martinez

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Teacher Sheri Garcia, and parent Dianna Mower represented Werner Elementary School. Other parent volunteers were Irene Mendoza of Jehue Middle School and Maria Rodriquez of Rialto Middle School.

Thank you to all of the mentors and role models who participated.

You made a difference to not only the youth in Rialto, but to youth visiting from throughout the region as well. Thank you for being a part of the five percent. I, and our students, appreciate you! I am Rialto Proud.

Rod Campbell, Rialto

cidents involved a white cop vs. black man? How many of the 2,300 San Bernardino County peace officers who fell victim to crime was the result of a white cop v. black man?

ter of white cop v. black men.

C’mon Mr. District Attorney, play it right. There was no mass demonstration favoring the LAPD’s bad Officer Christopher Dorner. There was great empathy and support for the families and peace officers vicAnd I absolutely disagree with timized by Dorner’s rampage. But the DA’s assertion there is little there is also remembrance of Rodcare about the harm or death to our ney King and there is a difference. peace officers. Our community is still in full support of Officer Norman E. Edelen, Gabriel Garcia. And as tragic as San Bernardino that incident was, it was not a mat-

Toll roads improve region’s transportation system

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In addition to myself, the other three coaches from RUSD were William Patterson of Jehue Middle School; Shelly Gates of Kolb Middle School; Ron Kovich of Kolb Middle School. We had 13 coaches from competing schools that invested time and money to create a First Lego League team.

Yamoto, Ms. Capalla, Ms. Alva and Ms. Hetzer. Ms. Pool, Ms. Erickson and Ms. Richardson volunteered from Kolb Middle School.

Eisenhower High School’s Waahida Manson and Anthony Marroquin are advanced science, technology, engineering and math students from Mr. Atkinsons High School STEM program.

Ramos misses the point

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 110, Colton, CA 92324 • Office Location: 1809 Commercenter West, San Bernardino, CA Letters are printed in the order they are 92408 received and are subject to editing for clarity.

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hosted the Inland Empire’s First Lego League Robotics Qualifying Tournament, which received participation from 11 schools in the region. We had over 70 mentors from ages 12 to 60 who assisted in our tournament and represented proudly the city of Rialto and Rialto Unified School District to our visiting teams.

RUSD Board Member Joseph Martinez and Thomas Haldorsen, the associated superintendent of personnel served as judge and referee. Ricardo Carlos of RUSD Communication Services kept up the social media posts, press releases, including picture-taking and interviewing student participants. Staff from Rialto Middle Rialto Middle School and Kolb School included Ms. Mims Middle School Robotics Clubs Williams, Ms. Smalls, Ms.

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We are award-winning newspapers, having been so recognized by the Inland Professional Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists In addition to mail subscriptions a combined total of 20,000 copies are distributed to approximately 400 locations in Redlands, Mentone, Highland, San Bernardino, Colton, Rialto, Bloomington, Grand Terrace Loma Linda, Moreno Valley, Riverside

The alternative is to do nothing.

The bottom line is that without Unless and until our highways are toll lanes, you have fewer choices more adequately funded, the beneand less investment in the state fits of toll roads should be clear. highway system. Most toll roads establish new freeway lanes or Paul C. Mim Mack, routes, not requiring the converOntario sion of existing lanes, and benefit those who don’t use them by taking cars off of the non-toll lanes.

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Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 11, 2014 • Page A5

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Two-time CIF dual meet champion Carter High to wrestle CBL

By Harvey M, Kahn

acob Lopez overcame a lot to pin his 195-pound Yucaipa High School opponent in Carter's first Citrus Belt League wrestling match in five years.

Carter won the last two CIF-Eastern Division dual championships out of its former San Andreas League.

Lopez is the perfect example of what Carter needed to win those two CIF crowns. Lopez weighed in at 170 pounds against Yucaipa last week, yet agreed to face the much bigger opponent. Lopez was bloody and bruised after he took a 15-4 lead before pinning his tough 25-pound heavier opponent with 21 seconds left in the match.

"Yea. I can easily get down to 145 pounds if needed. That's what I weighed last year and as a freshman I weighed 138 pounds. Lopez is one of the reasons that Carter coach Kevin Hennessy says he is enjoying this season. "We're young but our guys expect to win. We will battle as a team all year," said

onship and that Carter's two-year division title run could be over.

"We lost a lot of our CIF qualifiers and have many freshmen replacing them. But this year you can call us 'a team." Carter did lose its CBL opener to Yucaipa, 45-21. Along with Lopez, Juan Heredia and Miguel Gallardo both earned pins.

Allen Bonilla had to work harder for his 4-0 win over defending CBL champ Arick Lopez at 182 pounds.

Still just a junior, Jacob Lopez has already earned two CIF championship rings, more than most people can earn in a lifetime. "It is just a great feeling," said Lopez.

"Naw. I don't wear my rings or championship patches. I don't have a letterman jacket yet. That's not PHOTO COURTESY what it's all about." Lopez is the only two-time CIF dual winner left from the team two years ago.

Returning members of Carter High School's two-time defending Bonilla, Wilmer Ardon, Joseph CIF-Eastern Division champion wrestling team; Bottom from left; Reynoso, and Jonathon Palafox reWilmer Ardon; Jonathon Palafox; Joseph Reynoso; Back left: turned from last season's team.

Jacob Lopez; co-coach Kevin Hennessy; and Allen Bonilla.

Bonilla and Palafox were SAL champions in addition.

Hennessy, who along with co- Hennessy acknowledges that Yu- Similar to what he learned from coach Aaron Loepp has led Carter caipa and Cajon are probably the the older guys at Carter when he to five league titles as well. front runners for the CBL champi-

was a freshman, Lopez is aware of his responsibility to those currently younger than him. "We had Kenny Clark on the team when I was a freshman. He was one the best wrestlers ever at Carter. Maybe a pro football prospect," recalled Lopez. "He was really humble. I learned from him."

Bonilla also realizes his role as an ambassador to the Carter wrestling program. He welcomes the challenge of stepping up against more balanced competition in the CBL. "I'm glad where I am at today. I assume the change of leagues will be good," said Bonilla, who wants to attend the Cornell University School of Business in New York after his graduation this year.

Bonilla pointed out that there's only two seniors among Carter's 14 starters. "For being so young, they impress me. This loss to Yucaipa could be expected. We'll improve and by the end of the season, we'll be ranked. I'm excited for the future. We'll be great next year," stated Bonilla, even though he plans to be 3,000 miles away.

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UC Riverside hosts “Objects of Get Knott’s Merry Farm for the holidays Devotion” conference

PHOTO COURTESY ALINKA ECHEVERRIA / GAZELLI ART HOUSE

UC Riverside will feature a two-day conference beginning this Friday that will explore the different sacred objects, rituals and visual culture of Latinos and Latin America during the “Objects of Devotion / Objetos de Devocion” conference, which also coincides with Mexican-British photographer Alinka Echeverria’s exhibition “The Road to Tepeyac.” Above is an image from Echeverria’s photographic series.

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By MJ Duncan

his weekend the public is invited to UC Riverside to explore the different sacred objects, rituals and visual culture of Latinos and Latin America during the “Objects of Devotion / Objetos de Devocion” conference, which also coincides with Mexican-British photographer Alinka Echeverria’s exhibition “The Road to Tepeyac.” The photographic series portrays pilgrims and the objects they carry on their backs on their trek to Tepeyac Hill in Mexico City to honor the Virgin Mary on her feast day.

“It was important to us in planning this conference to highlight the connections between Latin America and U.S. Latino experiences,” explained Jennifer Nájera, associate professor of ethnic studies and co-organizer of the conference. “Latino immigrants and their children maintain, challenge, and infuse new meaning into their religious practices and iconographies.”

The Friday and Saturday conference is free to the public, and will take place at UCR’s Culver Center of the Arts, located in downtown Riverside in the 3800 block of Main Street. The center is part of

UCR ARTSblock, a cultural complex that includes the Culver Center, Sweeney Art Gallery and the California Museum of Photography.

“There’s something about these photos that has captured people’s imaginations,” said Jennifer Scheper Hughes, associate professor of history at UCR and co-organizer of the conference. “This conference picks up themes from Echeverría’s work about devotion, Latin American religion and sacred vision.”

The two-day conference will feature three Latin American/Latina women artists: Echeverria, who speaks on both days; Alma Lopez, a public artist who has appeared in over 100 exhibits globally; and Colombian artist Adriana Salazar, who builds kinetic sculptures.

Additionally, over 30 papers will be presented by both national and international scholars on the topics of religious materiality in the Latin American and Latino context – relics, pilgrimage, devotional practice, transgressive saints, and sacred objects and materials of the pre-Hispanic period, to name a few.

Friday, the opening day of the conference, coincides with the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a religious observance that pays tribute to the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus and Mexico’s patron saint, appeared to a poor Indian in Mexico City twice in 1531.

On Friday conference sessions begin at 3:30 p.m. and concludes with a 2013 documentary that follows six pilgrims from 3 to 73 years old on a 500-mile journey to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, “Walking the Camino: Six Ways to Santiago.”

Saturday conference kicks off at 9 a.m. and the day will also conclude with a screening of the documentary at 7 p.m.

The conference is free and open to the public, and those interested in attending are encouraged to register online at the UC Riverside website.

hat: Do your holiday shopping at Inland Center Mall and you could get a very special Holiday Bonus….a ticket to Knott’s Berry Farm! Redeem $350 or more in same day mall receipts for a Free Knott’s Berry Farm Regular Admission ticket, a $65 value at Guest Services. Give the ticket as a gift or keep for yourself, either way Inland Center Mall is giving you an added incentive to shop early and get Knott’s Merry Farm for the holidays. Who knew holiday shopping could be so fun?

In fact, make fun part of your holiday tradition at Knott’s Merry Farm!

Don’t miss the new “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” Ice Show, Christmas Crafts Village, Snoopy’s Merriest Tree Lighting, Santa’s Christmas Cabin, thrilling rides and more!

Knott’s Berry Farm offers something for everyone in the family and we are thrilled to partner with them, especially during the Holiday Season. Plus, you can pick up Knott’s Berry Farm discount coupons at Guest Services and save up to $24 on Regular Admission. Knott’s Merry Farm runs November 22 – January 4, 2015. Visit www.knotts.com for details.

While supplies last. Total mall receipts must be purchased in a single day and from one mall. One ticket per customer, per day. Tickets expire 12/31/15. Some restrictions, including blackout dates, apply to tickets.

Not valid with any other offer or on previously purchased items. Void where prohibited. See Guest Services for terms and conditions.

When: Get Knott’s Merry Farm For The Holidays Promotion - December 4-19. Knott’s Merry Farm runs November 22-January 4, 2015

Where: Inland Center Mall,500 Inland Center Drive, San Bernardino, CA 92408. Guest Services - Location. www.inlandcenter.com

BUSINESSES & SERVICES Page A6 • Decembr 11, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

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Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 11, 2014 • Page A7

Calendar

C

ity Council Meetings

Colton: First and third Tuesday, 6 p.m.; 650 N. La Cadena Dr. Highland: Second and fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m.; 27215 Base Line. No meetings in August.

Loma Linda: Second and fourth Tuesday, 7 p.m. (check city Web site as dates are subject to change); 25541 Barton Rd. Redlands: First and third Tuesday, 3 p.m.; 35 Cajon St. Rialto: Second and fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m.; 150 S. Palm Ave. San Bernardino: First and third Monday, 3 p.m.; 300 N. “D” St.

A

fternoon Delight Dance Socials

All seniors, couples and singles, welcome at free dance socials.

Opportunity to make new friends and remember music of our youth.

Joslyn Senior Center: First and second Tuesday 2 p.m., 21 Grant St., Redlands (909) 798-7550.

Redlands Community Center: Every third Friday 2 p.m., 111 Lugonia Ave., Redlands (909) 7987572.

Highland Senior Center: Every fourth Tuesday 2 p.m., 3102 E. Highland Ave., Highland (909) 862-8104.

Center, 400 N. Pepper Ave., are held each Tuesday Morning. at Colton. For more information, St. Paul’s Methodist Church, 785 No. Arrowhead Ave., San please call (909) 887-3472. emocratic Lunch- Bernardino, CA 92401 (corner of Arrowhead and 8th).

D

eon Club of San Bernardino

The Democratic Luncheon Club of San Bernardino meet at noon on Fridays at Democratic Headquarters, 136 Carousel Mall (near the central glass elevator) in San Bernardino. For additional information visit website www.sbdems.com Speaker Schedule: Friday 12/12 Holiday Party and Potluck Friday 12/19 Hon. Marsha Slough, Presiding Judge, SB Superior Court: SB Justice Center and Court Update HAPPY HOLIDAYS Friday 1/9/2015 ~ Kenneth Munoz, Director, Yucaipa Valley Water Dist.: Water Crisis and Drought Prospective Members and Visitors are Welcome. NOTICE: 2015 Dues of $15 are now due and payable. Please bring to the meeting or mail a check to PO Box 451, SB 92402.

Visit us at www.sbdems.com or our new Facebook page at www.facebook/SBDems.

Craft Boutique in the hospital’s main lobby and at the café on the lower level. The event will feature gift baskets, skin care products, hand-crocheted items, scented candles, clothing, scarves, specialty foods, badge holders, purses, blankets and more! Proceeds from the event will benefit patient care programs at ARMC. ARMC is located Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 1 at 400 North Pepper Avenue, in p.m. in front of the hospital. Stop Colton. For more information, call by on your lunch break for certi- 909-580-6340. fied fresh produce and artisan breads. ARMC partners with the Southland Farmers Market Association on the weekly market to help promote health and wellness to the community.

A

RMC weekly Farmer’s Market

4

0th Annual Festival of Music & Lights Concerts agical Train Christmas Friday, December 19 at 6pm Saturday, December 20 at Ride to see and 4pm and 7pm. The 40th Annual Festival of Music and Lights ChristSanta

M

mas Concerts presents Christian vocal trio, Selah. The acclaimed group will present “Christmas with Selah” as part of their national Christmas tour at three concerts at the Calimesa SDA Church, 4th & Myrtlewood Dr., Calimesa.

Recorded information about these concerts is available by calling the Calimesa concert series line (909) 795-4960. All concerts require tickets which much be purchased in advance. Reserved seating tickets ($20, $15, $10) are available via the internet (itickets.com) or by calling 800-965-9324 to place an order.

Most major credit cards are accepted. No tickets will be sold at the door. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to purchase tickets early for best seating since seating is limited.

Mondays 5:30-6:30 5-11yrs, Mondays 6:30-8:30 11-adult. No charge. 951-233-7027. Knights of Columbus, 740 Pennsylvania St., Colton, Ca.

December 13, 14, 20, 21 Ride the train where elves will lead families in Christmas songs, holiday trivia games and story telling. Santa greets the guests as they arrive at the workshop. Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus at a play area where children can experience Thomas train tables, a child-powered roller coaster and crafts. Enjoy holiday treats while waiting to board your train and a child-size train ride ($2).

Train times are 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m, 5:30 p.m and 7 p.m. Trains fill up fast. So it is advised to call the museum for reservations. 951-9433020. Prices are: Non-members, ages 12 & up, $15; ages 5-11; $10; ages 2-4; $5. Members: Ages 12 & up $8; ages 2-11, $5. More info at www.oerm.org.

Saturdays from 10am-12pm Come Sing with The Inland Empire Prime Time Choraliers as they begin a new season on Tuesday, January 7, 9:00 AM. Rehearsals

Thursday, Dec. 11 and Friday, Saturday, December 20 at Dec. 12 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Ar7:30pm The San Bernardino Symrowhead Regional Medical Center’s Volunteer Management phony will present their first holiDepartment will host a Holiday day concert in many years. The

B

allet Folklorico Cultural Classes

A

“Home for the Holidays” concert will feature music from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite, Anderson’s Festival of Carols, Handel’s Messiah and Judas Maccabaeus, Williams’ Home Alone, and more. All regular season concerts will be performed at the historic California Theatre, 562 W. 4th Street, San Bernardino.

Both season and individual tickets may be purchased by calling (909) 381-5388 or visiting the Symphony box office at 198 N. Arrowhead Ave., San Bernardino.

E

-Waste Recycle Day

Saturday, January 31 from 8am-12pm. Join the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley and Go Green Electronics Recycling Services at the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley parking lot for this one day electronic recycling fundraising event. Electronic items will be accepted, whether in working condition or not. Items accepted will include: VCRs, DVD players, speakers, gaming systems, projectors, cameras, LCD monitors & TVs, telephones, cell phones, keyboards, computer monitors and towers, printers, fax machines, calculators, spare parts, laptops, and typewriters. The Humane Society’s Veterinary Clinic will be open hosting its regular low-cost vaccination Saturday Shot Clinic from 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM. The Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley is located at 374 W. Orange Show Road in San Bernardino. Proceeds generated from the recycled items will benefit the Humane Society. Contact Jill Henderson, at 909-386-1400, ext. 224.

BUSINESSES & SERVICES C

ommunication Classes

Mondays at 6 p.m.: Town & Country Toastmasters Club offers classes in the Sequoia Room at Arrowhead Regional Medical

T

he Inland Empire Prime Time Choraliers

MUSIC LESSONS

RMC Will Host Holiday Craft Boutique

H

PARALEGAL TRAINING

ome for the Holidays Concert

Email your calendar items to iecn1@mac.com

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Automatics • Manual Trans Transfers • Clutches Axles 116 S. Stoddard Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92401

Tel 909-889-1192 • Fax 909-889-5026

Page A8 • December 11, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

It’s beginning to sound a lot like Christmas as Salvation Army Bells Ring in San Bernardino

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Steve Pinckney has volunteered his time ringing the bells as part of his ministry work with the Salvation Army Corps. He is graduate of the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Center and participants in the Salvation Army Corps's Path-To-Prosperity program.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

At the 40th Street Stater Bros. market, Joyce Fierri, another Salvation Army bell ringer stands by her kettle. Joyce attends the Salvation Army Corps church and is a supporter of the organization. While taking Joyce's photograph, Mr. Andrew Williams stepped up to the kettle to make his donation. Andrew is a long time supporter of the Salvation Army and is also an employee of Stater Bros. at a different store location. The next donation in Joyce's kettle came from a homeless man by the name of "Josh".

As Josh walked up to the kettle and dropped in a few coins he apologized to Joyce for his small contribution and wished it could have been much more.

O

By Ricardo Tomboc

n Friday November 21, the Salvation Army Corps of San Bernardino began its "Red Kettle" Bell Ringing Campaign. Twenty-four bell ringers were deployed throughout the various San Bernardino retail stores.

The tradition of the Salvation Army "Kettle" during the Christmas Holidays started in 1891 in San Francisco, by Captain Joseph McFee, in an effort to collect enough money to provide a free Christmas dinner to the poor. Now the tradition has spread worldwide.

During the Christmas season, the sounds of the ringing bell have been recorded into the musical and film history. The song "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" written in 1951 by Meredith Wilson, was made famous by Perry Como, The Fontane Sisters, Bing Crosby, and many more. The

last chorus of the song says, "It's beginning to look a lot like Christ-

mas, soon the bells will start, and the thing that will make them ring, is the carol that you sing". In another song, "Silver Bells" reference is made to the "silver bells in the City". There are many film and TV shows that portray the Salvation Army Bell Ringers in the backgrounds when depicting a Christmas scene.

On this first day of bell ringing, there are two volunteers at the Walmart shopping center on Highland Avenue. Steve Pinckney and Bill Sassa have volunteered their time ringing the bell as part of their ministry work with the Salvation Army Corps. Both Steve and Bill are graduates of the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Center and are participants in the Salvation Army Corps's Path-To-Prosperity program.

At the Food-for-Less market on Highland Avenue, Gloria Reyes is ringing the bell by her kettle. Gloria is a single mom of four girls and would normally be volunteering her time at the Salvation Army Corps in San Bernardino. However, this year Gloria wanted to earn some extra Christmas money for her girls by ringing the bell. At one time Gloria lived at the Salvation Army Corps shelter for about four months, until she was financially stable enough to find her own place. Gloria was posing for a photograph when eight-year-old Jaylene Reyes of San Bernardino stepped up to the kettle and dropped in a donation.

At the 40th Street Stater Bros. market, Joyce Fierri another Salvation Army bell ringer stands by her kettle. Joyce attends the Salvation Army Corps Church. While taking Joyce's photograph, Mr. Andrew Williams stepped up to the kettle to make his donation. Andrew is a long time supporter of the Salvation Army and is also an employee of Stater Bros. market at a different store location. The next donation in Joyce's kettle came from a homeless man by the name of "Josh". As Josh walked up to kettle and dropped in a few coins he apologized to Joyce for his small contribution and wished it could have been much more.

Donations collected during the Christmas kettle campaign in San Bernardino are used to provide food baskets and other essential items during the Christmas season.

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PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Bill Sassa has volunteered his time ringing the bells as part of his ministry work with the Salvation Army Corps. Bill is graduate of the Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Center and is a participant in the Salvation Army Corps's Path-To-Prosperity program.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

At the Food-for-Less market on Highland Avenue, Gloria Reyes is ringing the bell by her kettle. Gloria is a single mom of four girls and would normally be volunteering her time at the Salvation Army Corps in San Bernardino. However, this year Gloria wanted to earn some extra Christmas money for her girls by ringing the bell. At one time Gloria lived at the Salvation Army Corps shelter for about four months, until she was financially stable enough to find her own place. Gloria was posing for a photograph when eight-year-old Jaylene Reyes of San Bernardino stepped up to the kettle and dropped in a donation.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 11, 2014 • Page A9

Highland Senior Center Serves Thanksgiving Meal

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

About 30 Southern California Gas Company workers volunteered their time to setup the facility, dish up the food, and serve the patrons at their tables. The Gas Company has been volunteering for the Thanksgiving event since about 2006.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Dennis Hernandez from the San Manuel Youth Committee is helping with one of several hundred patrons at the Highland Senior Center Thanksgiving meal.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

One of the volunteers running up and down the aisles while carrying multiple food plates in her hands was Cal-Fire Chief Liz Brown.

O

By Ricardo Tomboc

n Saturday November 22 the Highland Senior Center fed over 300 seniors.

Every chair and table was used as seniors filled up three large rooms at the center. A line of patrons stood outside the main entrance waiting for a seat.

About 30 Southern California Gas Company workers volunteered their time to setup the facility, dish up the food, and serve the patrons at their tables. The Gas Company has been volunteering for this Thanksgiving event since about 2006.

For the fourth year in a row, seniors at the Thanksgiving meal have also been treated to free portrait photographs compliments of the students at the Digital Photography class held at the Highland Senior Center. Mr. James Clarett and Mrs. Denise Boyd have taken the photography class multiple times and have volunteered their time to the Senior Center on several occasions.

Penny Lilburn, Director of the Highland Senior Center, opened the festivities by thanking her staff and volunteers. City of Highland Mayor Sam Racadio gave the invocation and John Rozzi sang God Bless American to the patrons.

One of the many guests at the Thanksgiving meal was John

Lowe, a retired member of the Campus Crusade for Christ. Accompanying John was Bettie Richardson. Both are members of the Highland Senior Center.

One of the volunteers running up and down the aisles while carrying multiple food plates in her hands was Cal-Fire Chief Liz Brown.

Jasmine Martinez, Bella Murillo, and Dennis Hernandez from the San Manuel Youth Committee were there as well to help serve the several hundred slices of pumpkin pie!

Vince Vega and Fernando Del Rio, both with the Southern California Gas Company, worked traffic control in the parking lot and then later on the food service line by dishing up plates.

Highland Senior Center is located just inside the main entrance of Patton State Hospital. The Highland Senior Center services seniors from the entire Inland Empire community. They offer several activities including: Free Ballroom Dancing, Ukulele Lessons, Bible Study classes, Exercise programs, Aerobics, Spanish and French classes, Water Color classes, Computer Classes, Bingo, and much more. The Highland Senior Center also offers a unique Transportation Assistance Program, which helps seniors with transportation issues; i.e. going to the doctor's office or going shopping for groceries. For more information, call 909-862-8104.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

John Lowe (left) and Bettie Richardson (right), are members of the Highland Senior Center.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Penny Lilburn, Director of the Highland Senior Center opened the festivities by thanking her staff and her volunteers. City of Highland Mayor Sam Racadio gave the invocation.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Vince Vega and Fernando Del Rio are both with Southern California Gas Company. They worked traffic control in the parking lot and then later on the food service line by serving plates.

Casa De Flores 342 S. Mt. Vernon Ave., San Bernardino, CA 92410

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

For the fourth year in a row, seniors at the Thanksgiving meal have also been treated to free portrait photographs compliments of the students at the Digital Photography class held at the Highland Senior Center. Mr. James Clarett and Mrs. Denise Boyd have taken the photography class multiple times and have volunteered their time to the Senior Center on several occasions.

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Page A10 • December 11, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Breast Cancer Survivors Receive Designer Handbags, then “Pay it Forward” with Handmade Blankets for Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

PHOTO COURTESY

F

PHOTO COURTESY

With their new designer handbags donated by Miche Bag in hand, members of St. Bernardine Medical Center’s breast cancer support groups gather for an evening of celebration and joy.

or those living with or affected by breast cancer, Dignity Health St. Bernardine Medical Center hosts monthly breast cancer support groups. On October 28, members of the two support groups, Breast Cancer Survivor Group and Esperanza Para Mujeres, were given extra special support and gifts – handbags, valued at $75 each.

Jill Damato, a regional Miche Bag representative, presented 24 Miche Prima Hope Bags to the breast cancer survivors. To support the fight against cancer, Miche Bag, a designer handbag company, donates a portion of proceeds from the sale of their ―Hope‖ shell to cancer research. Damato, a frequent vendor at St. Bernardine’s annual Holiday Boutique, said

she’s grateful to work for a company that is compassionate and supports patients fighting cancer. ―Breast cancer touches the lives of so many. It is our pleasure to support and bring a little joy to these women through a gift of a Miche handbag.‖ After the women received the handbags, they ―paid it forward‖ and made several flannel blankets for women who are newly diagnosed with cancer and who need to have chemotherapy treatment. ― Chemo rooms tend to be cold, so the blankets will be well received,‖ said Michelle Melancon, RN, breast cancer navigator.

Melancon said breast cancer continues to be the most common type of cancer found in women in the United States and it is the second

leading cause of cancer death among women age 40-59. ―This means that one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and a woman will die every 74 seconds from the disease.‖ The breast cancer navigator at Dignity Health’s St. Bernardine Medical Center offers coordinated services, with a focus on preventative care, early detection and ongoing support, including monthly breast cancer support groups, in English and Spanish, for those affected by or undergoing treatment for the disease. The support groups meet at St. Bernardine’s Baby and Family Center. For more information, call Melancon at (909) 8838711.

J

oin Sinfonia Mexicana as it celebrates the holidays with its Annual Mariachi Christmas concert on December 13th at the California Theatre of the Performing Arts in San Bernardino.

The 7:30 p.m. program will feature Grammy winning, Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea with special guest Ballet Floklorico Ollin and a special presentation by Sinfonia Mexicana’s Mariachi Youth Academy. Ticket prices are $25, $35, $45 and $55 and are available by calling the California Theatre at 909.885.5152. Sinfonia Mexicana is one of Southern California’s premier presenters of culturally enriching events.

The month of December in Mexico is filled with a myriad of regional fiestas. Some of them trace

their roots to the customs of native Indians celebrating their various winter feast days. Later Indian deities were replaced by Christian ones and some celebrations have evolved into popular traditions.

The best-known example, presented in this concert, is the Fiesta of La Posada.

The Posada began in the 16th century as a liturgical event to celebrate the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. Processions were added in the 17th century to involve more people.

Celebrated between December 1624, participants begin the nine day ceremony by asking for symbolic lodging. The involvement of communities serves to enrich the tradition, coloring the festivities with local and regional characteristics.

S

Holiday performances, activities for young and old

an Bernardino City Uni- Cost: Free fiedSchool District schools Date & Time: Friday, Decemare holding holiday per- ber 12 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. formances and activities. Everyone Location: Jones Elementary is invited to attend.

School, 700 North F Street, San Bernardino Band/Instrument Assembly Contact: Jones at (909) 386-2020 Cost: Free Date & Time: Friday, Decem- Food Bank ber 12 at 2 p.m. and repeated at Cost: Free to needy families; 2:45 p.m. contact the school for more inforLocation: Anton Elementary, mation 1501 Anton Court, San Bernardino Date & Time: Thursday, DeContact: Anton at (909) 386- cember 18 at 10 a.m.

2000 Location: San Bernardino High School agriculture area, 1850 Arroyo Valley High School North E Street, San Bernardino Singing Hawks Choir Concert Contact: Jamie Rios at (909) 881Cost: Free 8217 Date & Time: Saturday, December 13 from 7 to 9 p.m.

San Gorgonio High School Location: Arroyo Valley High, Orchestra Holiday Concert 1881 W. Base Line St., San Cost: Free Bernardino Date & Time: Thursday, DeContact: Arroyo Valley at (909) cember 11 at 6:30 p.m.

381-4295 Location: Gary Walker Theater, San Gorgonio High School, 2299 Jones Elementary School Pacific Street, San Bernardino Winter Community Festival (feaContact: Bob Satterfield at (909) Organizing and preparing the celturing the 66ers mascot, Bernie) 388-6524 ebration is passed from father to son. Families and friends decide on a schedule of homes to be visited. The host home or neighborhood is decorated and food and drink prepared for the evening’s visitors. The first Posada begins on the night of December 16th with the participants divided into two groups: the guests who ask for lodging, and the hosts who provide it.

The host and guests recreate Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging by singing a traditional song.

The guests gather outside the home to request a place to stay and the hosts answer, first by refusing and then welcoming them, signaling the start of the evening’s fiesta.

The musical journey of Mariachi Divas begins with the traditional petition for lodging (the Posada), but the real fiesta starts with the breaking of the traditional piñata.

The first part of the journey begins in the state of Jalisco.

The journey ends with the mariachi version of traditional Christmas carols. Audience members may join Mariachi Divas in singing Noche de Paz (Silent Night) Campanitas (Jingle Bells), Agui Viene Santa Claus (Here Comes Santa Clause and more.

Area High School students interested in attending this wonderful experience are invited to call Sinfonia Mexicana office at 909-8843228 as special priced tickets are available on a limited basis.

Sinfonia Mexicana presents Annual “Mariachi Christmas”

PHOTO COURTESY

After receiving new designer handbags, three breast cancer survivors “pay it forward” with handmade flannel tie blankets for women who are newly diagnosed with cancer and who need to have chemotherapy treatment. Pictured l-r, Carolyn Henderson and Jacquelyn Cannon, San Bernardino, and Denise Gondos, Highland.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 11, 2014 • Page A11

Hundreds show for fundraiser at San Bernardino cafe in support of wounded officer

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

The San Bernardino Police Officers Association and The Mexico Cafe in San Bernardino hosted a fundraiser for San Bernardino police Officer Gabriel Garcia, who is recovering after being shot in the line of duty in August.

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

San Bernardino police officers John Dimola (front) and Clint Watson (back) tend to customers at The Mexico Cafe in San Bernardino during a fundraiser for fellow officer Gabriel Garcia Dec. 8.

L

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Many showed their support for Officer Gabriel Garcia by wearing “Fight on Gabe” shirts during a fundraiser Dec. 8.

By Yazmin Alvarez

ocal law enforcement put a spin on their duty to protect and serve Monday by serving up dishes to the community instead.

Trading patrol shifts for table service at The Mexico Cafe in San Bernardino, dozens of police officers and members of the San Bernardino Police Department served up lunch and dinner all day at the eatery as part of a fundraiser—“Fight on Gabe”—to benefit SBPD Officer Gabriel Garcia, who is recovering after being shot in the line of duty in August.

The day’s shift included everything from serving chips and refilling drinks to wiping down tables, booths and sweeping floors—all hard work to earn tips and donations toward a fund to help with costs of Garcia’s recovery.

Garcia was shot in the head August 22 after an early morning gun battle in San Bernardino. He remained in critical condition until recently, police said, and is now making progress at an area rehabilitation center.

Hosted by San Bernardino Police Officers Association along with the restaurant, Mexico opened its doors at 11 a.m. and within 30 minutes, a line of hungry supporters formed out the door and

through the parking lot. San Bernardino and Pomona police department officials, Los Angeles, Rialto, Colton and San Bernardino City fire officials and a group of Rialto city officials, including Mayor Deborah Robertson, showed in support.

San Bernardino police Officer Clint Watson along with his part-

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

San Bernardino police Officer Ernie Luna serves chips to customers during a fundraiser for police officer Gabriel Garcia at The Mexico Cafe Dec. 8 in San Bernardino.

ner Ofc. John Dimola were among those serving customers and bussing tables, sweating bullets for their tips.

“This is no joke,” said Watson, as he took a breather. “But by no means am I complaining. I think we’d all go to great lengths to

show our support and do what we can to help. The proof is here today even with the community.”

The crowd attendance in support of Garcia and his family was overwhelming, added Watson.

“You know it’s only noon,” Dimola said to Watson.

“It’s only been an hour,” Watson questioned in disbelief. “I feel like I served about 100 people already.

But hey, we’re working for one of us. I’ll just wipe the sweat and keep moving.”

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Page A12 • December 11, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

REV wins first ever CIF title

R

By Richard Dawson

edlands East Valley has consistently pumped out good teams over recent years but none had been able to call themselves CIF champions.

This year’s squad can.

In a game that wasn’t decided until the final minutes, REV defeated Riverside Poly 36-33 to win the CIF-SS Inland Division title in front out a packed house at Ramona High School on Friday, December 5.

The Wildcats (13-1) found themselves trailing with the ball in the fourth quarter and in need of a big play to shake up the game’s momentum.

On a third-down pass, quarterback Armando Herrera threw a quick slant to Carter Flowers, the ball was tipped and Flowers made a highlight reel catch to keep it from hitting the ground at the Poly 35.

Sure enough, the next play ended up a touchdown pass from Herrera to Kris Vaughn for what would be

the game-winning points, 36-31, with 8:28 remaining.

Out of timeouts, Poly was driving later in the fourth. Bears quarterback Chandler Drachslin heaved a deep fade toward the endzone to Ykili Ross, but Isaiah Armstrong read the pass and jumped for the interception to essentially clinch the game for the Wildcats with under two minutes to play. It was Armstrong’s second pick of the night.

The Wildcats nearly ran out the clock but had to take a safety on the games last play.

Herrera had to overcome a shoulder injury suffered in the teams semifinals win over Citrus Hill the week before. He finished with 300 yards and 3 touchdowns to lead the offense.

Following the win, REV was invited to play in the State playoffs and will host Bakersfield Ridgeview at Citrus Valley High School for the regional title on December 13.

PHOTO/RICHARD DAWSON

Quarterback Armando Herrera overcame a shoulder injury from the previous week to throw for 300 yards and three touchdowns.

PHOTO/RICHARD DAWSON

Kris Vaughn reacts to teammate Joey Harmon scoring a Wildcat touchdown.

PHOTO/RICHARD DAWSON

The Redlands East Valley football celebrates after defeating Riverside Poly 36-33 to win the CIF-SS Inland Division title on Friday, December 5.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 11, 2014 • Page A13

Page A20 • December 11, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Community organizations are asking for toothbrush donations to help SBCUSD students

Photo/AssistAnce LeAgue of sAn BernArdino

T

By Anthony Victoria

he Assistance League— with the help of the San Unified Bernardino School District (SBCUSD), the Kiwanis Club of Greater San Bernardino, the San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce, Cal State San Bernardino student organizations and dental professionals collected approximately 4,500 toothbrushes and delivered them to the Dr. Earl Crane Dental Center, located at 588 W. 6th St. on Thursday December 4.

Last year Loma Linda University dental professors Margie Arnett and Bonnie Nelson presented a research study that demonstrated the need for dental hygiene education and assistance in the city of San Bernardino. In assessing 3,097 first grade students from the dis-

Members of the Assistance League of San Bernardino, the Kiwanis Club of Greater San Bernardino, and the San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce gather around san Bernardino city unified school district officials Dr. Margaret Hill and communications director Linda Bardere (Bottom center) at the dr. earl crane dental center, located at 588 W. 6th st in san Bernardino. A study conducted by Margie Arnett (top center-left) and Bonnie nelson shed light on the need for dental hygiene among sBcusd students.

trict’s 42 schools, the study found that 15 % (465 children) share a toothbrush with other family members, 10 % (280 children) do not own a toothbrush and do not use toothpaste and around 25 % (785 children) reported some type of mouth pain.

The study prompted the aforementioned organizations to help collect toothbrushes in order to help SBCUSD students.

“While we were conducting our first grade dental screening program at one of the local schools a child asked if the bristles of a toothbrush were supposed to be white. We were surprised at the question and it occurred to me that there could be a systemic problem with children sharing toothbrushes and thus the study was born,” said Arnett.

During their study, the two doctors and members of the Assis-

Photo/corinA Borsuk (sBcusd)

kiwanis member and horace Mann insurance agent Joseph Guerra Jr. of San Bernardino.

tance League of San Bernardino left bags with brand new toothbrushes and toothpaste along with an informational flyers for each student.

“Visiting one of the schools last year I was involved in a conversation with a staff member and teacher where the teacher was surprised to hear that one of her students had one toothbrush in a house of thirteen people. That staff member then decided to start a toothbrush drive to get a toothbrush in the hand of every student at their school,” shared Assistance League of San Bernardino President Deborah Karalun.

Chamber of Commerce chief executive officer Judi Penman and SBCUSD board member Margaret Hill were among the several dignitaries present on Thursday to officially hand off the toothbrushes to dental professionals at the Crane Dental Center, while also taking a tour of their facilities.

The study demonstrated the need for dental attention, said Horace Mann insurance agent and Kiwanis spokesperson and member Joseph P. Guerra, Jr. Guerra further explained that dental hygiene is an important issue that needs to be addressed by community leaders and organizations.

“Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and community at a time,” said Guerra. “We realized this was a good project for us and asked other service clubs, dentists, the school district, and the Chamber of commerce to donate toothbrushes for the cause.”

Guerra said the toothbrush collection drive is an ongoing project and residents are encouraged to donate toothbrushes. The Kiwanis, according to Guerra, looks to continue to encourage other service clubs to “help [them] aid children in the city.”

“It’s about the community coming together,” he said.

For more information, contact Joseph Guerra, Jr. at (909) 3830370 or Michael Arteaga at 909254-1969.

Anthony Victoria is the Community Editor for the Colton Courier and El Chicano newspapers and can be reached at victoriaanthony91@gmail.com