Inland Empire Weekly December 25 2014

Inland Empire Weekly

IECN

Features, Lifestyle & News You Can Use!

Vol 10, NO. 19

THIS WEEK

Redlands youth Shop with a Cop for Christmas

A11

C

COURTESY PHOTO/CITY OF REDLANDS

Redlands Police Department’s Sgt. John Moore helps a young girl with her Christmas shopping as part of Shop with a Cop Dec. 22 at Target in Redlands.

strolled through the aisles of Target, the Redlands Unified Target in Redlands with police School District and community hristmas came early for officers as part of the annual holi- volunteers to make the effort posmore than a 100 children day program, Shop with a Cop. Monday morning as they Redlands Police partnered with Shop, cont. on next pg.

By Yazmin Alvarez

A19

Art Institute of California -Inland Empire inspires children through holiday party

Ice Rink Coming to Downtown Redlands A20

INSIDE ONE SECTION, 20 PAGES

A7 A13 A14 A4 A6-7 A12

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 25, 2014

HSSBV “Happy Neuter Year” campaign offers low cost sterilizations in January

T

Christmas for the children

Calendar Classifieds Legal Notices Opinion Service Dir. Sports

.com

T

COURTESY PHOTO/ART INSTITUTE INLAND EMPIRE

A group of children from the Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern California were treated to a holiday party hosted by the Art Institute campus in San Bernardino. of holiday fun—Ai arts and crafts Christmas party to remember that

By Yazmin Alvarez style, of course. included visiting with Santa, cookThe San Bernardino campus ies and tons of holiday fun. he Art Institute of hosted a group of children from Taking on the role of some Ai California - Inland Empire opened its doors to a select the Childhood Cancer Foundation students on campus, the children group of younger students recently of Southern California Dec. 10, Ai Christmas, cont. on next pg. helping them dabble in a little bit throwing the youngsters a

he Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley wants you to ring in the New Year by making a resolution to neuter your male dog or cat during their “Happy Neuter Year” campaign.

The HSSBV will provide 50 “Happy Neuter Year” neuter surgeries for $20 for male dogs and cats during the month of January.

Spaying and neutering is one of the most effective ways to reduce the homeless pet population and is safe for puppies and kittens as young as eight to 10 weeks old, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.

“Neutering male pets is a simple surgery that reduces unwanted behaviors, like roaming, fighting, and urine marking territories,” says Jill Henderson, Development & Community Outreach Coordinator for the HSSBV. “It also guarantees your dog or cat never fathers a litter of puppies or kittens.”

This special $20 rate is even less than the organization’s normal low-cost price and is available to all residents of the Inland Empire. Pet parents who wish to take advantage of this offer must mention the “Happy Neuter Year” campaign when they schedule their appointment. This campaign is based on availability.

Please visit www.hssbv.org or call 909-386-1400 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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 25, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers • Inland Empire Weekly Shop, cont. from front

to provide the holiday shopping spree to underprivileged children, the news release said.

Among the volunteers helping children shop included 31st District Congressman-elect Pete Aguilar, County Supervisor James Ramos, Redlands Chief of Police Mark Garcia and his wife Carolyn, Redlands school board member Neil Waner, members of the Redlands Police Department, Citizen Volunteer Patrol and Citizen Volunteer Park Rangers units, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and County Probation Department and Redlands Human Relations Commissioners Gail Howard and Carole Coley.

sible for 104 children, all youth selected from Redlands Unified School District students.

Police officers and community volunteers were paired up with the youngsters, helping them shop for toys, clothes and other basic necessities that they would otherwise go without because of financial hardships, said organizers.

Each child was given a $125 gift card to pick out things they wanted for Christmas, with many of the children also choosing something for their parents and siblings too.

This year’s effort was made possible with the help of eight donors, including Target, which all contributed $1,000 each to the shopping spree. Target also provided gift bags for each child, pictures with Santa along with coffee and doughnuts for the volunteers, acYazmin Alvarez is a reporter COURTESY PHOTO/CITY OF REDLANDS cording to a news release. with Inland Empire Community Redlands Police and community Newspapers and can be reached Redlands police Cpl. Kelvin Bryant helps a group of boys with Christmas shopping as they particimembers raised more than $15,600 at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com. pate in Shop With Dec. 22 at Target.

DS

COURTESY PHOTO/ART INSTITUTE INLAND EMPIRE

A group of children from the Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern California were treated to a holiday party hosted by the Art Institute campus in San Bernardino. Children were able to decorate holiday cookies baked by culinary students from the campus.

COURTESY PHOTO/ART INSTITUTE INLAND EMPIRE

The Art Institute campus at San Bernardino hosted a holiday party for children from the Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern California. Many children who attended were inspired to become bakers and pastry chefs after decorating cookies and other holiday treats.

Santa, Ai media arts students printed and provided digital copies of photos from the event for famiplayed pastry chefs—wearing Ai lies to share.

Chef hats—and decorated cookies whipped up by students from the culinary department.

The opportunity even sparked a bit of baker into some of the children, inspiring the pursuit of bak- Yazmin Alvarez is a reporter ing and pastry as future careers. with Inland Empire Community To help children remember their Newspapers and can be reached special holiday party and visit with at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com.

Ai Christmas, cont. from front

Got News?

COURTESY PHOTO/ART INSTITUTE INLAND EMPIRE

Children from the Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern California were treated to a holiday party hosted by the Art Institute campus in San Bernardino. Media arts students from the campus took photos of the children with Santa and provided them with digital copies as a keepsake.

Have news, an event or want to recognize someone in the Inland area that is actively involved in their community?

Send any information along with photos to Inland Empire Weekly Community News Editor, Yazmin Alvarez at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com or call 909-381-9898 ext. 207.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 25, 2014 • Page A3

Guest Commentary by Supervisor Josie Gonzales -Air Quality improved but still a challenge-

I

Supervisor Josie Gonzales

By Josie Gonzales

n response to the Dec. 18 El Chicano article titled, “Smog pollution continues to plague Southern California, particularly Inland Empire region,” I would like to assure your readers that air quality has dramatically improved within our region and throughout Southern California in recent decades. These significant advances can be attributed to the

F

PHOTO COURTESY

work of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and its state and federal agency partners.

Not too long ago—before any air quality regulation was in place— open burning was permitted at dumps and wrecking yards, emission-reducing catalytic converters were nonexistent, and our beautiful mountains would disappear behind a curtain of thick smog on most summer days. Fast-forward to today, we enjoy a clear view of those mountains almost every day,

year-round.

We at SCAQMD understand the serious impacts of air pollution and know it is a significant health problem for those that live in Southern California. I want to do everything we can to limit air pollution while allowing businesses to grow and create jobs for our residents.

Despite increases in population and the number of motor vehicles on roadways, fine particulate pollution (known as PM2.5) has declined by about 50 percent during the past 15 years in the Inland Empire. Levels of ground-level ozone, also known as summertime smog, have been reduced by about 35 percent during the same time period.

These reductions are directly attributable to regulations adopted

by SCAQMD – some of the toughest in the nation – along with state and federal air quality laws. In addition, our team of about 100 field inspectors helps ensure compliance to those rules.

However, the Inland Empire still suffers from some of the highest ozone and PM2.5 levels in the nation. Our climate and geography puts us at a great disadvantage.

Prevailing winds typically push smog from the west toward San Bernardino and Riverside counties where our mountains keep it contained.

Because the Southland faces a greater challenge than any other area in the nation in cleaning up smog, the federal government has allowed our region to rely on advanced technologies that are not yet in widespread use to show how we plan to achieve healthful air quality. This is not a “polluter

Temporary Expanded Branch Hours during Feldheym Library’s Closure for Re-Carpeting

eldheym Central Library is scheduled to be closed to the public for approximately two weeks starting Monday, January 5th because of re-carpeting.

The three branch libraries of the San Bernardino Public Library plan to offer expanded public service hours beyond their usual 20 weekly hours during that period.

Library expanded branch service days and service hours starting Monday, January 5 during the Feldheym closure are as follows: Inghram (1505 W. Highland): Tuesday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Friday 2 – 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and closed Monday and Sunday.

Rowe (108 E. Marshall): Monday and Tuesday 11 a.m.– 8 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 10 a.m.

–6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and closed Friday and Sunday.

Villaseñor (525 N. Mt. Vernon): Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and closed Friday and Sunday.

Materials that are checked out may be returned to the book drop at Feldheym when it is closed, or any of the branch libraries.

Feldheym, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2015, still has its original carpeting. Most of the funding for this project comes from an insurance settlement following a 2013 flood and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. Almost all of the

carpet in the 64,000-square-foot facility is to be replaced.

“This project will be a major upgrade for Feldheym,” Erjavek said.

“We’d like to thank the Mayor and Common Council, City Manager Allen Parker, Public Works Director Tony Frossard, Brandon Mims of the City Manager’s office, Rick Moreno of City Facilities, the SBPL Board of Trustees and everyone else who has supported and contributed to this muchneeded project.”

All city libraries will be closed on Saturday, January 17th and Monday, January 19th because of the

Martin Luther King Holiday.

While regular hours at all libraries are scheduled to resume Tuesday, January 20, patrons are encouraged to check the library’s web site at www.sbpl.org or call 381-8201 for updates.

The January 8th Library Board of Trustees meeting at 3 p.m. will move to Villasenor since Feldheym will be closed to the public.

Further information including a wide range of electronic services and the ability to renew materials online are also available at the library’s web site.

IM INC, Inter-Prevention Meaningfully Intercepting The Negatives Toward Children

Free Music Lessons, Saturday’s 8:00 A.M.- 12:00 P.M. Instruments Provided by IM INC

Lessons for electric guitar, electric bass, drums and piano.

Music theory, voice and stage presence. Registration: January 3, 2015, 9:00 A.M., 3358 North “E” Street, San Bernardino, CA 92405. For youth ages 8, through 17.

First come basis: Lessons start January 10, 2015, At, 3358 North “E” Street, Between 33rd & 34th.

“See You There”.

Mr. Dennis Morgan Brown/Program Administrator/CEO (909) 496-5112

loophole” but rather recognition of the immense challenge we face in reaching our clean air goals.

Since my January 2009 appointment to the SCAQMD governing board, I have been proactive in adopting new clean-air policies and incentive programs.

For example, San Bernardino was one of two communities chosen (the other is Boyle Heights) for SCAQMD’s Clean Communities Program, an innovative effort to further reduce toxic air pollution and health risk to our residents.

This has included using EPA grants to fund job training in the use of new, low-polluting solvent cleaning systems and spray equipment, and deep discounts for residents on cordless electric lawn mowers and clean fireplace units.

Although we have made tremendous progress in reducing pollution in our region, we still have a lot of work to do. Emissions of a key pollutant, nitrogen oxides, will have to be further reduced by about two-thirds to meet current standards for ground-level ozone.

This will require widespread commercial and personal use of lowemission technologies, from the cars we drive to the trucks that bring goods to local warehouses.

SCAQMD has a comprehensive, scientific Air Quality Management Plan to further reduce air pollution to achieve federally mandated clean air standards.

Even greater reductions will be needed to achieve a new, tougher standard proposed just this month by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. SCAQMD is now developing an update to its clean air plan and we invite everyone to join us at our upcoming conference, “Environmental Justice for All: A Conversation with the Community,” on Friday, Feb. 27, 2015, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Center at Cathedral Plaza, 555 W. Temple St., Los Angeles. The conference is free but pre-registration is required at www.aqmd.gov/ejconversation.

As my track record will show, I continue to advocate for and promote the use of clean air technology countywide. I encourage you to read my office’s story on the new LNG truck fleet operating in the county, and my thoughts on green energy projects published in my newsletter, Josie’s Press. You can access it from my website, www.sbcounty.gov/Gonzales.

Josie Gonzales represents the Fifth District on the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. She also represents the county as a Governing Board Member of the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

For more information on SCAQMD and its programs, go to www.aqmd.gov or call 1-800CUT-SMOG. Spanish-speaking operators are available.

OPINION&EDITORIAL Page A4 • December 24, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Yazmin Alvarez New laws for employers in 2015

W

ith the Christmas holiday now in the past and plans stirring on how to ring in the new year, many also should be preparing to implement policies to comply with a number of new California laws expected to go into effect in 2015, especially employers.

The new laws cover a range of points in employment, including wage and hour issues, paid sick leave and discrimination.

While a list of new laws are also coming to residents, employers should take time and review their current policies to ensure compliance for the new year, according to The California Chamber of Commerce.

Below is a brief overview from a Dec. 2 publication of The National Law Review and The California Chamber of Commerce of a few of most notable new laws affecting businesses in California.

For a complete list of the policies taking effect visit, natlawreview.com or calchamber.com • Mandatory Paid Sick Leave – AB 1522 – The “Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act of 2014” requires California employers to provide paid sick leave benefits to their employees, including all full-time, part-time, temporary, migrant and seasonal employees. Employers must provide paid sick leave to these employees if they work 30 or more days within a year from the commencement of employment.

Under the new law, employees are entitled to accrue paid sick days at a rate of no less than one hour for every 30 hours worked. Employers may limit the employee's annual use of paid sick leave

benefits to 24 hours or 3 days per year, and cap the accrual of paid sick leave to 48 hours or 6 days per year.

• Expanded Coverage for Emergency Duty Leave – AB 2536 – California protects employees from discipline or discharge for taking time off for performing emergency services as volunteer firefighters, reserve peace officers or emergency rescue personnel. However, the state previously limited the definition of "emergency rescue personnel" to those providing emergency services in government agencies, sheriff's departments, police departments or private fire departments. The new law now expands the definition of "emergency rescue personnel" to include those providing emergency services as part of a disaster medical response entity sponsored or requested by the state.

• New Statute of Limitations for Liquidated Damages for Failure to Pay Minimum Wage – AB 2074 – Previous law required that a lawsuit to recover liquidated damages for minimum wage violations under California Labor Code § 1194.2 be filed within one year of the alleged violation. The new law amends Section 1194.2 to extend the statute of limitations period to three years.

• Nondiscrimination: Driver’s Licenses for Undocumented Persons AB 1660 makes it a violation of FEHA for an employer to discriminate against an individual because he/she holds or presents a driver’s license issued to undocumented persons who can submit satisfactory proof of identity and California residency.

Such discriminatory actions will constitute national origin discrimination under FEHA. These driver’s licenses are often referred to as “AB 60 driver’s licenses,” after the name of the bill passed last year.

AB 60 driver’s licenses are scheduled to start being issued on January 1, 2015.

AB 1660 clarifies that actions taken by an employer that are required to comply with federal I-9 verification requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) do not violate California law.

~California Chamber of Commerce list of new employment laws scheduled to take effect in 2015 can be found at www.calchamber.com.

Views expressed in Opinion & Editorial do not necessarily reflect the views of IECN

YOUR COMMUNITY COMMENTARY!

All letters must be signed. Please include your name, address & phone number for verification purposes only. Anonymous letters will not be printed.

Accentuating the Positive

Lyrics of a once popular song said that we should accentuate the positive and eliminate the negative. Many of our youth are engaged in great humanitarian endeavors, however, their good works are too often overshadowed in the news media by negative, sensationalized acts of barbarism.

The elementary school scholars at Henry Elementary School in San Bernardino are engaged in a Global Studies program. Recently, 4th and 5th graders researched Global indigenous tribes around the world. They studied tribes such as The Awa in Brasil, The Matses in Brasil, The Wichi in Argentina, The Bushmen in Botswana, The Ogiek in Kenya, The Aboriginal people of Australia, The Batak in the Philippines, The Dongria Kondh of India, and the Siberian Tribes of Russia, among others.

Each scholar presented a major power point film documentary of their research, complete with credits at the end of the film. The young scholars filmed, narrated, and operated all of their equipment. I was absolutely amazed!

During the research, scholars found that many native people were in danger of having their lands destroyed. The scholars found a website on international tribal survival, and planned a “Tea for Tribes” to raise funds for tribes that are endangered due to deforestation and loss of resources. Donations were forwarded to help these less fortunate tribes around the globe.

Our youth were giving instead of taking, providing food instead of drugs, making friends and collaborating instead of fighting. The young scholars were smiling and excited rather than sullen and bullying. Their skills and researched

knowledge was absolutely “off the charts”! They deserve Kudos for the great humanitarian activities in which they are engaged.

Congratulations to the young Henry Elementary School scholars for their sensitivity, to their superlative principal, Dr. Marcus Funchess, and to the great Henry staff, for truly Accentuating the Positive. They truly live up to their artistic expression, “We are smart, We are Intelligent, We are full of greatness!”

Come on Adults, the children are leading the way. Let’s get on board, reach out and touch, and make this world a better place!

We can!

Mildred Dalton Henry, Ph.D. San Bernardino

4,000 Attend Winter Wonderland, THANK YOU!

Good afternoon City Employees derful event. drecreation; you are also welcome and Community Members, to send pictures to Aviana, and she We are already working to make can share them).

On behalf of the San Bernardino next year’s event bigger, more orParks, Recreation & Community ganized and, of course, more WonThanks, Services Department, we want to derful :_) Our hope is that you will take the time to thank you, for your collaborate with us again and that Mickey Valdivia, Director & time and support, for our first Win- you and your family have a Merry Aviana Cerezo, Community ter Wonderland that was held on Christmas and Happy New Year.

Recreation Manager Saturday, December 13th. A Parks, Recreation & tremendous undertaking, we had at (To view more pictures and Community Services least 400 volunteers, vendors & videos, please check out our FaceDepartment staff and an estimated 4,000 par- book page at: ticipants. And it truly was a Won- www.facebook.com/sbparksan-

New San Bernardino school police chief gets it

A police officer witnessing an adolescent assaulting another adolescent will make an arrest. San Bernardino City Unified School District police officers seek why the adolescent got into the fight.

Did his father hit him that morning? Did his mother abuse him before school? What is going on with the student and how can the officers model good behavior and mentor for life success?

Chief Joseph Paulino gets it: He knows adolescent mistakes can destroy a life, mistakes we can correct with mentoring and modeling good behaviors. Chief Paulino and San Bernardino City Unified School District board member Abigail Medina are working on school policing as a discipline separate from beat policing. Paulino and Michael Gallo, president of the San Bernardino school board, want to develop a program for

troubled youths — those most likely to bully others, where staff mentor and model good behavior.

The students, families and citizens of San Bernardino County are well served with Chief Paulino as the new school police chief.

Daved van Stralen, Loma Linda

Terrorists win when the U.S. caves to threats Sure, we all fear terrorist threats will keep doing this and expanding Inland Empire Community Newspapers stemming from Sept. 11, so what on it. On top of that, we now have IECN (909) 381-9898 • FAX 384-0406

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.

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

Published weekly on Thursday.

Adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of San Bernardino County, State of California, case #73036 and therefore qualified to publish legal notices.

Legal Advertising & Receptionist

Established 1910.

Publisher

Co-Publisher

Established 1876.

RIALTO RECORD

Denise Berver Published weekly on Thursday.

El Chicano

Established 1969.

Published weekly on Thursday.

Adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of San Bernardino County, State of California, case #154019 and therefore qualified to publish legal notices.

Inland Empire Weekly Established 2005.

Published weekly on Thursday.

Adjudicated as a newspaper of gen- As a community newspaper of Fictitious Business Name Danielle Castaneda eral circulation by the Superior Court general circulation. & Accounting of San Bernardino County, State of Graphic Artist/Web Mgr. Michael Segura CIRCULATION California, case #26583 and thereVERIFICATION fore qualified to publish legal notices.

OF CALI FO R-

Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Colton Courier • RIALTO RECORD El Chicano • Inland Empire Weekly

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

are Americans to do? Hide and President Obama giving back tergive up our freedom? rorists to Cuba and kissing their hind ends.

So we get these threats from our enemies and we pull the movie. This country was built for standMaybe this was a good move, but ing up for what is right and we what’s next? Baseball games, the never backed down from doing the Super Bowl, Disneyland, flying on right thing. Now we have to give vacations, buying groceries, drink- in to every whimpering threat and ing water, and so on? adapt to their lifestyle?

Once these low-life terrorists see we back down and that Americans are giving up their freedoms, they

Steve Portias, San Bernardino

E-mail us your opinions, photos, announcements to iecn1@mac.com.

Letters limited to 500 words www.iecn.com

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 25, 2014 • Page A5

LLU's Dr. Stephen G. Dunbar gets pioneering sea turtle mating, --Sea turtle conservationists face perils in Costa Rica

PHOTO COURTESY

Dr. Stephen G. Dunbar with Olive Ridley species of sea turtle off Carribbean coast of Honduras.

L

By Harvey M. Kahn

oma Linda University associate professor Dr. Stephen G. Dunbar and colleagues are wrapping up a productive 2014 with the December publishing's of two articles on the endangered sea turtle. One story appearing in the Journal of Endangered Species Research explains Dunbar's use of a new computerized photo identification system to more accurately track turtle migration habits.

Dunbar's second co-published article appears in the Journal of Endangered Species Research. It details the Olive Ridley species of sea turtle and its ability to lay eggs fertilized by more than one father. Dunbar's collaborative re-

search was based off the Caribbean coast of Honduras in the Gulf of Fonseca.

Dunbar feels the research of the endangered sea turtle is crucial to the preservation of the entire marine ecosystem and the overall balance of nature. Sea turtles weighing more than 4,800 pounds thrived as far back as 80 million years. Of the seven current species of sea turtle alive today, all but the Olive Ridley is declining, said Dunbar.

Speaking from his office at Loma Linda University, Dunbar said, "Sea turtles play a key role as engineers of the ecosystem.

They feed on destructive algae, sponges and sea beds that if left to grow, can destroy coral reefs.

Without the sea turtles, Dunbar says the entire commercial fish-

ing industry could some day be eliminated. "Sea turtles stop disease," said Dunbar.

Starting from birth, sea turtles face many obstacles, explained Dunbar. Only one out of onethousand makes it to maturity.

Turtle eggs have been traditionally eaten by humans. Hatchlings are eaten by all animals. Once growing past initial threats, mature sea turtles must avoid a host of human threats. Adult turtles are harvested for their meat. Others are accidentally caught in commercial fishing nets and die.

Furthermore, they are losing their nesting grounds do to beach front encroachments.

"We want to teach that sea turtles are worth more alive than dead," said Dunbar. In his long list of published articles, Dunbar describes the importance of turtle research in making future land management decisions, primarily to improve conservation projects set aside for turtle nesting habitats.

He feels the new digitalized tracking device is going to increase public involvement in the plight of the sea turtle. Dunbar called the new computer identification system, "citizen science."

It allows the general public to join a global database whereby they can upload photographs of turtles, thus help researchers more accurately identify them as

they migrate as far as 1,500 miles from their Honduran nesting sites. "Tourists and divers will now be able to help researchers document citings at more migration locations."

Likewise, the new computer system will use face ID recognition to more rapidly and accurately chart turtles opposed to the former time consuming method of manually viewing thousands of photos. Duncan said the digital system will provide more information than the costly satellite tracking units currently used.

Duncan hinted that sea turtles have a yet to be confirmed intelligence. He said turtles appear to congregate in marine protected areas where they seem unfazed by humans, while those in the open waters seem to swim away from people.

Along with teaching marine biology courses and researching in partnership with Loma Linda University, Duncan owns the Colton-based proTECTOR firm that works with the government of Honduras in education and research projects. His support base includes grants from U.S. Fish and Wildlife and ESRI. His seven-year-old firm includes a fundraising turtle adoption program.

Although Duncan said he's never had problems in Honduras, reports from Costa Rica claim

those promoting the preservation of sea turtles have been threatened and in at least one case murdered. A family visiting the San Bernardino area from Costa Rica said biologist Jairo Mora Sandoval was bound, shot in the head and dumped on the beach.

The visitors from Costa Rica, who wished to remain anonymous, explained that coca traffickers are involved in the lucrative turtle egg poaching trade and that Sandoval was in their way.

Dr. James Spotila from Philadelphia's Drexel University told NewScientist.com that Costa Rican fisherman have inadvertently netted about 720,000 sea turtles from 1999 to 2012 which has led to the decline of the Olive Ridley nesting population. That does not take into consideration the thousands of turtle eggs that drug gangs buy for a dollar each. About 80 clutches of eggs are found in a nest. Most visiting scientists agree that overall, Costa Rica is a safe place to study.

The Costa Rican visitors said turtle eggs are sought by beer drinkers who use the eggs as appetizers. "The recent immigration of Costa Rica by Asians has also increased the value turtle eggs," said the visiting family.

"They eat them as an aphrodisiac."

BUSINESSES & SERVICES Page A6 • Decembr 25, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

AUTO GLASS REPAIR Mention this Ad and get $10 off

Reliable Auto Glass

All makes & models•We do Motorhomes!!

We come to you! • Same Day Service!

We Repair Cracks & Chips! Call Craig

909-723-4125 • 951-892-4612

AVON

Your Local

AUTO REPAIR/SMOG

R&E

L&R Smog

AUTO CAR CARE

TEST ONLY Complete Service • Foreign & Domestic 909 889 2852 •Computer Diagnostic •Air Conditioning •Fuel Injection •Timing Belt •Brakes •Electrical

•Rebuilt Motor •Rack & Pinion •Heads •Suspension •Clutch

909-885-6830 402 E. Rialto Ave. San Bernardino, Ca. 92408

BAIL BONDS

BAR & GRILL WOODEN NICKEL Bar & Grill Great Food & Drink Specials!

Come in & see Randy Lee 842 Kendall Dr. San Bernardino, Ca. 92407 909-883-4317

CLASSIC AUTO PARTS

Classic Parts Source

COMPUTER SERVICE

CONCRETE

HEATING & AIR

INSURANCE

www.classicpartssource.com 951-977-1408 9860 Indiana Ave #1 Riverside Ca. 92503

CRAFTSMAN

Heating & N & C Air Conditioning Inc. S • S ALE VIC E • S ER ON LLATI A T S • IN

Office/Fax: 909-873-2612 Cell/Pager: 951-522-3495 348 E. Third St. Rialto 92376

LIFE INSURANCE

License#C-20#562023

LIMOUSINE SERVICE TCP#15491

LIVE MUSIC Featuring the band

Don’t Drink & Drive Rent a Limo or a Party Bus for your next Holiday Gathering!

(909) 796-8079 • Fax (909) 383-5086 1-888-Starr-99 • Web: starr-al.com 384 E. Orange Show Rd. San Bernardino, CA 92408

fclivemusic.com (909) 796-8079 • Fax (909) 383-5086

384 E. Orange Show Rd. San Bernardino, CA 92408

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 25, 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

Colton. For more information, begin a new season on Tuesday, January 7, 9:00 AM. Rehearsals please call (909) 887-3472. emocratic Lunch- are held each Tuesday Morning. at St. Paul’s Methodist Church, 785 eon Club of San No. Arrowhead Ave., San Bernardino Bernardino, CA 92401 (corner of The Democratic Luncheon Club Arrowhead and 8th). 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.sb- Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 1 dems.com p.m. in front of the hospital. Stop Speaker Schedule: by on your lunch break for certiFriday 1/9/2015 ~ Kenneth fied fresh produce and artisan Munoz, Director, Yucaipa Val- breads. ARMC partners with the ley Water Dist.: Water Crisis Southland Farmers Market Associand Drought ation on the weekly market to help 1/16 Clifton Harris, Retired promote health and wellness to the Deputy Sheriff, From Ferguson community. to Victorville: Black America's struggle for civil rights 1/23 Hon. Marsha Slough, Presiding Judge, SB Superior Court: SB Justice Center and Chaffey College is hosting a six Court Update Prospective Members and Visi- week baseball camp starting January 4. Chaffey assistant coach tors are Welcome.

NOTICE: 2015 Dues of $15 are Chris Walters will direct the pronow due and payable. Please gram in conjunction with U.S. bring to the meeting or mail a Baseball Academy. Classes are check to PO Box 451, SB 92402. available for players in grades 112 and are limited to six players Thank you! ~ FPPC #1222022 per coach. Sessions are offered in ~ FIC #C0040845 Visit us at www.sbdems.com or advanced hitting, pitching, catchour new Facebook page at ing, fielding and baserunning.

Space is limited. Registration is www.facebook/SBDems. now under way. For more informaallet Folklorico tion, visit www.USBaseballAcadCultural Classes emy.com, or call toll-free 866-622-4487.

D

A

RMC weekly Farmer’s Market

Y

outh Baseball Camp

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. Mondays 5:30-6:30 5-11yrs, Highland Ave., Highland (909) Mondays 6:30-8:30 11-adult. No charge. 951-233-7027. Knights of 862-8104.

Columbus, 740 Pennsylvania St., ommunication Colton, Ca.

B

C

ounty of San Bernardino Behavioral he Inland Em- Health Commission pire Prime Time Meeting Thursday, January 5 from 12

invited and input is welcome.

2

1st Annual Noche Cultural

Saturday, January 24-Chicano student programs presents their annual Noche Cultural: an evening of variety entertainment.

Doors open at 6pm and sho starts at 6:30 at the University of California, Riverside, University Theatre. Parking is $5/Lot 6. Tickets are $12 general and $10 student.

For more information contact Chicano Student Programs at (951) 827-3821.

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.

C

ommunity College Day

Friday, February 27 from 8:30am to 2:30 pm.-at University of California, RiversideCommunity College Day is structured to provide students with pertinent information regarding the transfer process, support services, academic programs and student life.

Workshops will include Chicano/Latino and Native American cultural awareness and empowerment.

In addition, workshops and resources will be provided for undocumented students. For information call (951) 827-3821.

A

RMC to Host Free 9th Annual 5K Walk/Run & Fitness Expo

Saturday, March 28-Join Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) at the free 9th Annual 5K Walk/Run & Fitness Expo. .

Check-in begins at 7 a.m., and the Walk/Run begins at 8:30 a.m. An awards presentation will immediately follow the Walk/Run. The Walk/Run is an outreach effort designed to raise interest in regular exercise and healthy eating to help combat rising obesity and diabetes rates. The goal is to encourage individuals of all ages to improve the quality of their lives. The free Expo will offer basic health screenings, stay-healthy information, fun fitness activities and challenges for the entire family.

ARMC is located at 400 North Pepper Ave., in Colton. Please, for everyone’s safety, no pets, skates, skateboards or bicycles. For more information go to: www.arrowheadmedcenter.org.

BUSINESSES & SERVICES C

Classes

T

Mondays at 6 p.m.: Town & Choraliers Country Toastmasters Club offers Saturdays from 10am-12pm classes in the Sequoia Room at Come Sing with The Inland Empire Arrowhead Regional Medical Prime Time Choraliers as they Center, 400 N. Pepper Ave.,

MUSIC LESSONS

noon to 2pm at County of San Bernardino Health Services Auditorium, 850 E. Foothill Blvd., Rialto, CA 92376. The public is

PARALEGAL TRAINING

PODIATRY

MDS Schools Be an Immigration or Bankruptcy Paralegal. $395 includes Certificate, Portfolio and Placement. (Classes in all counties) www.mdsandassociates.com

626-552-2885

REGLAZE

Reglaze & Restoration •Porcelain/Fiberglass Repairs •Kitchen & Bath Restoration

909-798-6700 reglazeandrestore.com

TATTOO

PUNCTURE WOUNDS Tattoo & Piercings

$50 Tattoo Tues $100 Palm Fridays blk & grey/excludes portraits

2”x2” blk & grey/excludes portraits

Gift Certificates Available

909-222-4096 - Colton 951-358-9442 - Riverside 1230 E. Washington St. Ste. #8 Colton Ca. 92324 10330 Hole Ave #5 Riverside Ca. 92505 PUNCTUREWOUNDSTATTOO.COM

TRANSMISSIONS

Armando’s Transmissions Foreign & Domestic Specialists Transmission Repair • Computer Diagnostics

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 25, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Words to Think About: The cruising lifestyle

I

By G. W. Abersold Ph.D.

have been on 129 cruises; many of them as a destination lecturer. My favorite cruise is to Alaska. Second is cruising through the Panama Canal.

I have never been on a bad cruise.

Each one has been an adventure.

Every destination was interesting: Mexico, Hawaii, Caribbean, Central America, South America,

Greek Isles, Baltic countries, East coast & West Coast of the U.S. The longest trip was for 28 days.

The shortest was from San Pedro to Ensenada and back-a week-end, Friday afternoon until Monday morning. This article is about my recent cruise to Ensenada.

When I have been questioned by someone who is afraid of cruising, I suggest they go on the short week-end cruise. It has the same things as a longer cruise: rooms, entertainment, activities and foodonly less time.

Cabins with balconies, cabins with views, inside cabins and suites. All cruises now have cabins for those that are handicapped. The rooms are larger and have a much larger bathroom with safety bars.

The doors are wide enough for wheel chairs and walkers.

Every ship also has a casino.

They are closed only when the ship is docked. Food is available 24 hours –even delivery to the cabins.

Activities while at sea usually in-

clude bingo, specialty lectures, painting auctions, ice carving, vegetable carving, kitchen and engine room tours, water sports, dancing lessons and group meetings like A.A. and singles.

Every ship has several swimming pools and a library. Of course, shopping is always available when at sea.

A popular eating time that many ships are now endorsing is called “anytime dining.” It is an innovation to the traditional style of same seating and time. I prefer it.

As with all cruises, excursions (tours) are available and encouraged. Deep fishing, city tours and the well-known blowholes are a few of the excursions on the Ensenada cruise.

Specialty restaurants are a recent addition on cruises. With a minimum cover charge, a few of the specialty finds are: Italian, Asian, Steak and Sushi.

Shopping is not limited to off ship buying. Opportunities for spending go from clothes, books,

jewelry to massages, pedicures, manicures, pharmacy items and plenty of sales.

I’m often asked, “What if I get sick?” Every ship has a doctor and nurse on 24 hour call. Last May while on an Alaskan cruise I developed a severe nose bleed. Stella called the nurse, she immediately sent a wheel chair for me, and called the doctor. She stopped the bleeding, explained what happened and back to our room I went, by way of the wheel chair.

The bill came to $170.00 which was included on our statement. I was reimbursed by my HMO within three weeks. I cannot say enough good things about the efficiency and care of the doctor, the nurse and the lab technician.

Embarkation and dis-embarkation and safety checks are traditionally a pain. But not so these days. Efficiency and speed are the norm.

Basic ship (Golden Princess) is in order. It is operated by Princess Cruises and its registry is in

Hamilton, Bermuda. It has a gross registered tonnage of 108,865 tons and a net tonnage of 72,270 tons.

The Golden Princess is 950 feet in length and 118 feet in breadth.

The builders were Italian and it was delivered on April 27, 2006.

The maximum number of passengers is 3100. Crew members total 1060.

The bridge command and control team are mostly Italians. The ship is manned 24 hours a day by two officers working four hours on and eight hours off.

A few years ago I met a lady who traveled every day on a cruise.

Often moving only to board a different ship. Her reasoning? Where else could she get 3 meals and snacks a day; her room cleaned every day; entertainment, doctor’s care as needed; and if she died, buried at sea. But best of all she said, “It is cheaper than a nursing home or an apartment.”

Our next cruise is in February; and the one after in April.

Amen. Selah. So be it.

Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino breaks ground

PHOTO/LOMA LINDA UNIVERSITY

Health Officials break ground for the Loma Linda University – San Bernardino project. Pictured(L to R) are: Ted N.C. Wilson, PhD, president, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists; Nancy Young, MHES, president and CEO, SAC Health System; Patrick J. Morris, JD, former mayor, City of San Bernardino; Dale Marsden, EdD, superintendent, San Bernardino City Unified School District; Tommy Ramos, education committee member, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians; Ken Ramirez, tribal secretary, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians; Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health; Pete Aguilar, congressman-elect, California 31st District; R. Carey Davis, MBA, mayor, City of San Bernardino; Lowell Cooper, MDiv, MPH, vice president, General Conferenceof Seventh-day Adventists and chair, Board of Trustees, Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center

T

By Mj Duncan

he city of San Bernardino recently received a jumpstart to its struggling economy thanks to the major groundbreaking of a new health care and educational initiative in downtown: Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino. The ceremony, which was attended by local and regional officials, took place at 250 S. “G” St where the center will be constructed across the street from San Manuel Stadium.

“This represents a great opportunity to revitalize our downtown area,” San Bernardino Mayor R. Carey Davis said. “It will also begin to change the image of San Bernardino as a result of the building that is going on. It will show that economic activity is returning.

We see the collaboration and partnership as one that is very important to the rebirth of our downtown.”

According to Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda

University Health, the project will help support the San Bernardino economy and promote health in the community.

“Studies of the infrastructure of San Bernardino have found that there are two large unmet needs in this community,” Hart said. “The first is a lack of skilled workers.

The second is a lack of quality health care. Our new project will shore up both of those sectors of the economy by providing career education and health care for area residents as well as creating employment opportunities.”

The project includes three distinct, but related components. The first is an educational center to be named San Manuel Gateway College, funded in part by a generous gift of $10 million by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

It will provide a variety of six- to 12-month certificate training programs to prepare graduates for career options in the healthcare field.

The second component is a medical clinic to be operated by Social Action Community Health System (SACHS), currently located on E.

Third St. in San Bernardino.

SACHS, started by LLUH students in the 60’s and has since become the largest provider of health services in San Bernardino, will relocate to the expanded facility.

“SACHS is the second-largest teaching health center in the nation,” said Nancy Young, MHES, president and CEO of SACHS. “Research shows that physicians trained in a community health center are three times as likely to stay working in community health throughout their careers.”

The third component of the initiative involves a vegetarian restaurant that will showcase the longevity benefits of a veganbased diet.

According to Hart, the architectural elements of the new building is designed as a LEED-certified structure (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), and will beautify the downtown area with trees and gardens.

The new center is a comprehensive partnership between local organizations that include the city of

San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, San Bernardino Community College District, San Bernardino City Unified School District, select non-profit organi-

zations and SACHS, all of which are partnering with the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Loma Linda University Health.

BUY 2 WHOLE CHICKENS FOR At any location!

COt couUponPatOtimNe of order

Must presen

$

FOR

15

99

2 WHOLE CHICKENS, Choice of Corn Tortillas or

INCLUDES:

Flour Tortillas and 11 oz. of Hot or Mild Salsa Not valid for catering or party orders • May not be combined with any other offers • 2 orders per customer

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 25, 2014 • Page A9

Shop with a Cop at Walmart in San Bernardino brings smiles to many

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Officer Walton is looking over the variety of video games with a young man.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Officer Olvera took an active role in helping select colors and types of clothing for his assigned child.

O

By Ricardo Tomboc

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Sergeant Shauna Gates was paired with two young girls about 7 to 8 years old; which turned out to be a hand full! However, with Sergeant Gates' supervisory skills and strategic negotiation abilities, they were done shopping in no time.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Officer Echeverria was paired with a three year old girl. Having younger children of his own, Officer Echeverria was able to successfully handle his assignment.

n Wednesday December 10, about 15 youngsters enjoyed the afternoon shopping with several San Bernardino Police Officers at the Walmart shopping center on Hallmark Parkway in San Bernardino.

Detectives and Police Officers who have had prior contact with the kids or families, as victims, witnesses or other related circumstances, selected these kids. Due to the confidentiality concerns, none of the names or faces of the children will be shown in this article.

Funding for this event was provided by a Walmart Foundation Grant. Walmart also helped by providing some assistance from store associates to help setup a meeting area in the Garden Department.

The children, with the assistance from the officers, were able to spend up to $100.00 dollars each.

The kids selected a verity of items including toys, bicycles and clothing. A few of the older kids decided to purchase all clothing items as their selections.

Community Services Officer (CSO) Cheri Williams organized the event and was able to coordinate the officers and families together. Most of the officers volunteered their time to shop with the kids. The ages of the kids ranged from about 2 to 17 years old.

It was an inspiring sight watching the uniformed officers pushing Walmart shopping carts with the child they were paired with. Kids seem to be responsive to the officers and seemed to appreciate the time they spent together.

Officer Walton was paired with a younger teenager who went directly to the electronic games! Officer Echeverria was paired with a three-year-old girl.

Having younger children of his own he was able to successfully handle his assignment.

Officer Granado was paired with a two-year-old child and her mother. Officer Olvera was paired with a preteen girl and her mother as well. Officer Olvera took an active role in helping select colors and types of clothing for his as-

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Waiting for the officers at the Garden Department cash registers was CSO Cherie Williams. Although she issued each officer a $100 gift card to spend on each child she was there to pay for any overages. After the shopping was done, the kids, parents and officers were treated to pizza!

signed child.

Sergeant Shauna Gates was paired with two young girls about 7 to 8 years old, which turned out to be a hand full! However, with Sergeant Gates' supervisory skills and strategic negotiation abilities, they were done shopping in no time.

Waiting for the officers at the Garden Department cash registers was CSO Cherie Williams. Although she issued each officer a $100 gift card to spend on each child she was there to pay for any overages. After the shopping was done the kids, parents and officers were treated to pizza!

Page A10 • December 25, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Support Small Business: Family owned business aims to provide music and education to Inland Empire youth

Y

PHOTO/ANTHONY VICTORIA

Victor and Fernando Ibarra: Son and Father, as well as business owners of IB Music Center in Colton.

By Anthony Victoria

ou can consider the IB Music Center in Colton to be in its infancy: it opened just four months ago in August. Its owners, the Ibarra family, opened the store to meet the incoming demand of instruments that came as a result of the re-introduction of music programs in the Colton Joint and Rialto Unified School Districts.

“My father and I worked at Colton Music,” said Victor Ibarra, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the store. “Unfortunately, it closed down in 2010. It’s been a few years since then so we decided to open a store to provide kids an opportunity to learn how to play instruments.”

The center already has a wide following, mostly due to their emphasis in providing children and adolescents an outlet for musical

resources and education, but also because they have a large following among the Mexican community’s bands.

IB Music’s starting point came when they were allowed to set up vendor booths at Rialto Unified School District school sites to provide students and their parent’s easier access to instruments and music books.

Ibarra said he believes doing things such as sponsoring organizations or individuals, and offering their use of equipment and volunteers for community events may help generate interest to the music store.

Ibarra, 25, has been around music for most of his life. At age 16 he began working alongside his father, Fernando, at Colton Music and was mentored into knowing the ins and outs of managing a music store.

“Music has been important to

me,” he said. “I’ve been around it my whole life and that’s because my dad taught me basically everything I know from music to sales.”

The Riverside Community College business student said music was the catalyst that pushed his entire family forward.

“We weren’t struggling or anything” he said. “We always had food on the table because my father worked a day job at a restaurant and also played music in the evening. He would later move on and work for Colton Music and was able to take advantage of the opportunity. It may not sound like a big career, but the opportunity was there for him.”

Today Fernando has a pivotal role in his family’s business. He manages the center’s ordering logistics, which deals with ensuring orders match up with what’s in demand and if the product is in request due to season.

“His knowledge is what’s driving the store,” Victor said. “I’m trying to take in as much knowledge as I can.”

IB Music’s short-term goal is to create an approach to contact residents about music classes that are offered at the store.

“Sometimes students have a lot of questions they can’t ask because they have limited time,” he said.

“They would be able to come here and ask similar questions free of charge. It’s important we encourage these kids to continue music.

There’s nothing wrong to quit after trying, but most things can be fixed by asking questions.”

Giving most of the credit to his older brother Mauro (the store’s owner and financial consultant), his father Fernando, and to his cousin Adrian (the store’s accountant), Victor remains humble and expressed that music changed his life for the better.

“Music has paid for my school,” he said. “I’ve been able to perform at the Latin Grammy’s and work inside music studios. That’s all great, but there’s always a fine line. I’m always grateful to come back here to Colton and provide musical opportunities to other youth.”

T

IB Music’s recent contribution to community

“Operation Santa, the Highland police department, Paul Rasso, and anyone else involved made this Christmas happen for us. We were about to close the rental for his saxophone to cover other expenses like rent. I didn't think that was around anymore; that people that don't even know you would worry about you. It brought tears to my eyes and I am grateful because I believe that music and education will provide a better future for my son.

Thanks to all the people that helped my son on this project.”

- Marisol Suarez, on her son’s saxophone gift. Colton Parks and Recreation Commissioner and IB Music Center worked together to bring joy to 9-year-old Alexander and his family this holiday season.

The men behind the campaign: Rusty Palmer and Cesar Gomez

By Anthony Victoria

wo young social entrepreneurs—Rusty Palmer, 29, and Cesar Gomez, 26, of San Bernardino—are aiming to change the way residents view the significance of small business.

Despite living in a city that has struggled to invest in its local businesses and attract more establishments, Palmer believes a change will commence with the altering of the local consumer mindset.

“People need to fall in love with the value of small business,” he said. “And there is no reason that businesses should feel what they’re doing is not big enough.”

Palmer and his “Support Local” project intends on providing a platform for local competition, as well as for the development of new commercial culture, smallbusiness education, and partnerships.

“You can’t have an educational event at McDonalds or Starbucks,” Palmer said. “If we create a localized culture that creates small business education and a culture that will encourage small business owners to help promote one another, I believe our area can have a thriving business economy.”

One of Palmer’s first steps is to find local individuals and businesses that are seeking to be a part of what he refers to as, “a small team that’s looking for something more valuable.” The current Cal State San Bernardino (CSUSB) graduate student has influenced CSUSB’s Coyote Radio, their radio personality Lacey Kendall, Epiphany Marketing’s Rasheed Louis and Tammy Martin-Ryles of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce to help him achieve his goal.

Palmer claims he’s the “behind the scenes” person, conducting social media marketing and advertis-

ing. However Gomez suggested Palmer is much more than that. “[Palmer] is placing resources together to create synergy for the betterment of the community,” Gomez said. “I think this project will benefit everyone. Since we don’t have exceptionally strong media outlets, I believe it’s important that we come together to create a unified plan.”

One of Palmer’s first steps was to help suggest business candidates and topics for my Support Small Business articles. In partnership, we both believe it is vital to elaborate on why small businesses are needed in our community and provide opportunities for business owners to highlight their respective establishments.

“Long term I want to allow for projects like this to inspire others to make changes they value,” said Palmer. “This is a voluntary project with only change and impact in mind as a goal.”

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 25, 2014 • Page A11

It’s all about the children during the holidays

PHOTO/ELOISE GOMEZ REYES

PHOTO/ELOISE GOMEZ REYES

The Jara Family welcomes the children.

PHOTO/ELOISE GOMEZ REYES

Children from Las Posadas with Eloy Sanches, Jessie Gomez, Assemblywoman Cheryl Brown, Eloise Gomez Reyes and Mayor Richard Dela Rosa.jpg

T

PHOTO/ELOISE GOMEZ REYES

Helpers at Immaculate Conception Church

By Eloise Gomez Reyes

hroughout the Inland Empire, families are celebrating the meaning of the Season. Many are showing the spirit of Christmas by giving gifts.

Others are re-enacting the journey of Joseph and Mary as they look for shelter through Las Posadas, a Latin American tradition. Others are celebrating the lighting of the Menorah for Hanukkah; others are celebrating the meaning of Kwanzaa. Wherever you look, there is evidence that something different is happening in our cities.

In Colton, a group of Misioneros con Valor, have shared Las Posadas. Children dress as shepherds and angels – while three are

kings and one is Mary and another is Joseph. The community has joined every evening for nine days with the children learning from their parents about this long-established tradition. Jessie Gomez has organized the groups for over 30 years. She has involved her family, her community and her church.

“I look forward to sharing the true meaning of Christmas while bringing some of our culture to our families. So many families join us just as my own family has done for so many years,” said Jessie Gomez.

Costumes have been made by the mothers over the years and gifts have been given to the many children involved. Every evening up to 100 people gather to begin the procession stopping at pre-desig-

PHOTO/ELOISE GOMEZ REYES

Eloy Sanchez, Rev. Bonifacio Velasquez, Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, Pete Carrasco and Eloise Gomez Reyes.jpg

nated homes to ask for shelter.

The last home welcomes them and there is a grand celebration with food and gifts for the children as well as sharing of the story of Christ’s birth.

Many local churches gave food baskets and gifts. At Immaculate Conception Church, Eloy Sanchez, Director of the Dinner Hour Ministry, organized his annual toy giveaway, serving over 800 children. The local Marines came to help give the gifts while Mayor Richard DeLa Rosa and Assemblymember Cheryl Brown stopped by to share in the festivities. Every year, Eloy prepares for the children seeking donations and contributions from the business community. The number of children grows every year, but somehow he is always able to give each one a gift. “It’s important that the children know that they are not forgotten,” according to Eloy.

In Fontana, Francisco and Carmen Jara of the Pancho Villa Restaurants held their annual Posada and toy giveaway. In addition to Santa Claus, the Mariachi Internacional performed to over 1,000 people who attended. Gifts for boys and gifts for girls abounded as the line circles the parking lot. The children got pony rides, train rides and entertainment from a clown. Francisco remembers his early years without gifts while living in Tijuana. He was especially touched by a woman who arrived with no children and no ticket. She needed three gifts for her grandchildren living in Tijuana. Her eyes welled up as she received the gifts. Francisco said, “We have been blessed and we want to be sure the children have a day full of entertainment with a special gift at the end of the day.”

The evidence that this is a season for giving is clear. The communities step up to help their neighbors and, in the end, everyone benefits from giving and from receiving.

PHOTO/ELOISE GOMEZ REYES

Isabela & Gabriela Gomez-Bennett light the Menorah.

Nacimiento with the Children.

PHOTO/ELOISE GOMEZ REYES

Page A12 • December 25, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

REV football wins first state title Wildcats fall in IE

Classic semifinals

A

By Richard Dawson

PHOTO/RICHARD DAWSON

M

PHOTO/RICHARD DAWSON

Kris Vaughn caught a third quarter touchdown that gave REV the lead.

By Richard Dawson

alik Lovette scored three touchdowns but it was unlikely hero Jaelan Phillips’ two big plays that propelled Redlands East Valley’s football team to a thrilling 34-33 win over Concord Clayton Valley to claim the CIF-state Division II championship at StubHub Center on Saturday, December 20.

It is the first state title for any sport in school history.

Phillips, a sophomore linebacker, blocked the game-tying extra point following a 17-yard touchdown run by Clayton Valley quarterback Nate Kesisel, preserving the 34-33 lead for REV with 7:39 left in the

game.

Things look like they turned for the worst when the Eagles recovered a Wildcats fumble on the ensuing kickoff. The Eagles drove to the REV 8, when star-studded senior running back Miles Harrison botched a handoff and Phillips was there to recover the fumble and save the game.

REV had struggled to stop Harrison, who totaled a beastly 323 yards on 50 carries with three touchdowns for Clayton Valley.

The Wildcats took over and needed two first downs to seal the win. It seemed only appropriate that quarterback Armando Herrera would find Lovette for a 27-yard gain to pick up the second to clinch it.

Malik Lovette scored three touchdowns to lead Redlands East Valley's football team to a 34-33 win over Concord Clayton Valley Charter for the CIFState Division II Championship at StubHub Center on Saturday, December 20.

Herrera toughed out another complete performance despite an injured shoulder he battled throughout the playoffs, completing 22 of 38 passes for 290 yards.

Lovette hauled in 9 of those passes for 154 yards and a score while adding 35 yards on the ground and two scores.

REV trailed most of the game until Taimon Faimalo scored at the 6:44 mark in the third to give the Wildcats a 28-21 lead.

Herrera found Kris Vaughn for a 19-yard scoring strike with just over a minute left in the third to make it 34-27.

big second quarter run

by Rancho Cucamonga proved costly to the Redlands East Valley boy’s basketball team and to a 76-69 semifinals loss during the Inland Empire Classic at Rancho Cucamonga high school on Friday, December 19.

Senior guard Chris Harper led the Wildcats on offense with 23 points followed by fellow senior Alex Ziska with 14. Both players made four three-pointers.

It was a close game through most of the first half but Rancho Cucamonga (8-1) closed out the first half with a 16-2 run, including a 3-point buzzer-beater by Tamer Jabsheh, to head into the break ahead 46-30.

Jabsheh and Julien Ducree each scored 16 points to pace the Cougars.

REV only trailed 30-28 before the run, but a 3-pointer by Kyle Lounsbury was followed by Ducree, Jabsheh and Elijah Whitfield making five of six free throws to increase the deficit to 38-28.

The Cougars run continued when Jabsheh made one of his five threes on the night. Matt Bradley stole the ball on the Wildcats next possession and drove the length of the court for a layup to make it 43-28.

After a basket my Ziska, Jabsheh took the inbound pass right back down and heaved a buzzerbeater for the 46-30 lead.

Kim Aiken and Austin Bryant both reached double figures with 10 points while Aiken also added 11 rebounds.

REV (8-1) is not finished with tournament action, meeting San Bernardino Pacific to open up the San Bernardino Kiwanis Tournament on December 26 in a final tune up before Citrus Belt League action starts on January 6 at home against Rialto Eisenhower.

PHOTO/RICHARD DAWSON

Senior guard Chris Harper led Redlands East Valley with 23 points during a 76-69 semifinals loss to Rancho Cucamonga at the Inland Empire Classic at Rancho Cucamonga High School on December 19.

PHOTO/RICHARD DAWSON

Sophomore Kim Aiken looks to make a pass during a Wildcats possession.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 25, 2014 • Page A13

Paulino new San Bernardino school district police chief

PHOTO COURTESY SAN BERNARDINO CITY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Colton resident and veteran police officer Joseph Paulino was recently sworn in as the new chief of the San Bernardino City Unified School District on Tuesday, Dec. 9.

J

By MJ Duncan

oseph Paulino was recently sworn in as San Bernardino City Unified School District Police Department’s new chief at

T

the Board of Education building on Tuesday, Dec. 9. Superintendent Dr. Dale Marsden did the honors of swearing Paulino into office at the afternoon ceremony attended by law enforcement leaders from across Southern California.

Paulino first joined the District as a patrolman in 1997 and worked his way through the ranks to hold the position as interim chief since July 2010.

“Chief Paulino has a strong vision for making hope happen for our students and our community,” Marsden said. “With Chief Paulino in this key leadership position, our District, our schools, and our students will be safer.”

As police chief, Paulino oversees a department of 26 sworn police officers, 55 campus security officers, and more than 10 support staff. The department is responsible for ensuring the safety of the District’s 53,000 students, as well as protecting District property.

Paulino’s strong ties in the community, his problem-solving skills and passion for making a positive difference in students’ lives contributed to his appointment, Marsden said.

Paulino’s goals include ensuring the police department continues to foster and maintain a positive connection with students and the community, and to utilize technology that will ensure the safety of students and district employees.

“Young people are the future of this community,” Paulino said. “It is our duty to ensure that they stay on the right course to a successful and productive future.”

Under Joe’s leadership, the District formed a Safe Schools Task Force in 2012 to improve school safety. In addition to parent and student members, the task force includes representatives from the San Bernardino Police DepartPHOTO COURTESY SAN BERNARDINO CITY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT ment, campus police from Cal State San Bernardino and other local colleges, representatives Joseph Paulino, a veteran police officer recognized for creating from the faith community, and a safe environment for students to learn, grow, and succeed, was sworn in as the new chief of the San Bernardino City Unified service clubs.

Paulino’s credentials include School District Police Department on Tuesday, Dec. 9 amid a being a graduate of the prestigious roomful of law enforcement leaders from across Southern CaliFBI National Training Academy, fornia and district personnel. Pictured from left are Joseph completing the California Com- Paulino, wife Elsie Paulino and SBCUSD Superintendent Dale mission on Peace Officer Stan- Marsden doing the honors of swearing Paulino into office. dards and Training (POST) Role of the Chief Course and Executive Development Course, and being diate, Advanced, Management, for 10 years, the last three as a serExecutive Certificates. geant in the 10th Mountain Diviawarded the POST Basic, Interme- and Paulino also served in the Army sion, 1-87 Infantry.

Salvation Army Giving Tree brings Christmas to many children

By Ricardo Tomboc

he Salvation Army Giving Tree was opened in early December at the Inland Center Mall. The Giving Tree is mostly operated by volunteers from both the Salvation Army and various service clubs in the community as well as a small army of individual volunteers.

Children's names are collected as early as October when parents come into the Salvation Army Corps to register for the various services that are being offered.

The first name of the child is placed on an angel along with various other bits of information that will be needed to shop for the child. These angels are distributed at the Giving Tree where donors can select a child that would best suit them and their family.

Once an angel is adopted a toy is purchased for that angel and is returned back to the Giving Tree lo-

cation. The donor is not obligated to give the child what the child requested, however, may donors do.

On a surprise visit to the Giving Tree at the Inland Center Mall, four students from the Cajon High School Key Club (Jose Gutierrez 15, Stacy Angezy 14, Rosario Henriquez 15, and Eden Becker14) were assisting with the adoption of the angels and with receiving toys. The Key Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater San Bernardino. Rocket Rios, the current president of the Kiwanis Club was there to supervise the students.

Stacy Angezy (14), one of the members of the Key Club, donated one of her vintage Cabbage Patch Kid along with another collectable Disney doll. Stacy is a doll collector and wanted to share some of her collection at the Giving Tree.

Brenda Carlos from San Bernardino, came to the Salvation Army Giving tree with five of her children. For the past six years

Brenda and entire family have made it a Christmas tradition for everyone to adopt an angel and purchase a gift.

Many donors will blindly pick the angels, and other will select by age, gender, or type of gift the angel requested. By the end of the program many of the angels are adopted. However, every year there are many angels who don't get adopted. Some have registered late, some may have been lost in the shuffle and others couldn't find anyone to adopt them. The Salvation Army Corps has certain donors who request that their donations be used to purchase toys.

These toys that are a special request purchased by donors are used to give toys to those angels that were not adopted and to supplement the angels who might have received a smaller toy when compared to a sibling who may have received a bigger toy.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Students from the Cajon High School Key Club (from left to right, Jose Gutierrez 15, Stacy Angezy 14, Rosario Henriquez 15, and Eden Becker14) were assisting with the adoption of the angels and with receiving toys. The Key Club is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of San Bernardino. Rocket Rios, the current president of the Kiwanis Club was there to supervise the students. Standing next to Rocket is Luz Henriquez, who is a parent of one of the students.

PHOTO/RICARDO TOMBOC

Brenda Carlos from San Bernardino came to the Salvation Army Giving tree with five of her children. For the past six years, Brenda and her entire family have made it a Christmas tradition for everyone to adopt an angel and purchase a gift.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • December 25, 2014 • Page A19

Memorial walk celebrates, honors children living and departed

PHOTO/THE UNFORGETTABLES FOUNDATION

On Wednesday, Dec. 31, The Unforgettables Foundation is presenting its 15th annual Lights for Little Lives Memorial Walk in celebration of children, and in honor of children who have passed. The community is invited to attend the event that will commence at 3:30 p.m. at the parking lot of the Ronald McDonald House across from Loma Linda Children’s Hospital, where attendees will proceed on a 3-block walk to Campus Hill Church. a child will release a dove at sunset, joined by 20 doves in a memorial flight. Many say the dove flight, symbolic of a heavenly journey, is a key highlight of the celebration.

Three physicians (Amy Young, MD, Timothy W. Mackey, M.D. and Clare Sheridan-Matney, M.D.) will receive the Top Doctor Pediatric award for their compassionate care toward area children.

Booker Huling of the Uptown Kiwanis Club will receive the Unfor-

PHOTO/THE UNFORGETTABLES FOUNDATION

The Lights for Little Lives Memorial Walk celebrates the lives of children and honors children who have passed. Following the 3block walk from the Ronald McDonald House to Campus Hill Church a ceremony will take place where attendees are able to light candles and read the names of their children who have departed, such as this family (names unavailable).

A

By MJ Duncan

t the end of each year hundreds of families come together in Loma Linda to celebrate the lives of children – those still with us and those who have departed. On Wednesday, Dec. 31 at 3.30 p.m. The Unforgettables Foundation, which provides families with burial assistance for children who have passed away, will present its annual Lights for Little Lives Memorial Walk for the 15th year. TUF founder Chaplain Tim Evans expressed his gratitude to the community for their endless support that has enabled him and his foundation to help so many families in need.

“Ninety-plus percent of charities don’t last ten years, and for the community to embrace and support us makes (for) a tremendous sense of gratitude,” Evans said during a telephone interview. “I started as a devoted volunteer, not knowing where this would go, but we filled a need and hoped it would expand. It’s spiritually gratifying and humbling now, after 15 years, that it’s not unusual for me to speak at a community gathering where people recognize me.”

The Light for Little Lives Memorial Walk brings together families, friends and the community to remember the many children who

have died too soon, added Evans.

“The event is another way the organization is able to further touch the lives of family members and loved ones in a caring way,” he said. “It’s especially satisfying to present the walk this year as we have now reached milestones like 5,000 families helped, 15 years of operation and over $1,000,000 given in direct service to local families.”

The specialized event is free and open to the public. According to Evans by the sheer nature of the event it’s a celebration of the lives of children and to honor the lives of children who have passed.

Families return year after year, showing the significance the event has on many. Attendance has increased from under 100 to 400500.

“The event’s therapeutic to families, you get to talk to them and it makes you feel grateful to do something for these people who have gone through such a tragedy,” Evans said.

A woman who lost her child in the 1950’s who is now in her 90’s has continuously attended the event, and this, Evans said, is a visual reminder that people never forget those they have lost.

During the memorial walk, which will convene at the parking lot of the Ronald McDonald House, 11365 Anderson St., Loma Linda, three mothers who have lost

gettable Kiwanis Friend of Children award for his tireless work on getting dictionaries into local schools.

After the ceremony, a 3-block walk will commence led by boy scouts, children, physicians, firemen, funeral professionals, volunteers and faith community leaders.

The walk continues down Anderson Street and ends at the Campus Hill Church where there will be a 45-minute ceremony of candle lighting and name reading.

TUF, a non-profit organization founded in 1999, has helped over 5,000 families with limited resources by paying for funeral expenses involving the death of a child. It is the mission of the organization that every family that goes through the terrible tragedy of losing a child should be able to afford a dignified burial. For more information, please call (909) 3351600, (909) 335-1655, or visit www.unforgettables.org.

Page A20 • December 25, 2014 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Ice rink brings holiday fun to Downtown Redlands

COURTESY PHOTO/ALL YEAR SPORTS GALAXY

A synthetic ice rink was assembled by All Year Sports Galaxy at the northwest corner of the Redlands Mall Dec. 26. The rink, made of a high-tech plastic, is eco-friendly and made from a non-toxic, recyclable acrylic material.

COURTESY PHOTO/ALL YEAR SPORTS GALAXY

The Redlands Chamber of Commerce brings a holiday ice rink to downtown for one week. The synthetic ice rink, located at the northwest corner of the Redlands Mall, is open daily through Jan. 1.

T

By Yazmin Alvarez

he Redlands Chamber of Commerce is bringing a little bit of Rockefeller Center ice skating to downtown as they transform the northwest corner of the Redlands Mall into Redlands On Ice. A 40-foot by 40-foot synthetic ice rink was assembled Thursday morning near North Eureka Street and Redlands Blvd. and will be up for the remainder of the week — through Jan. 1— to provide all the fun of real ice skating without the chill, said Kathie Thurston, executive director of the chamber.

“It’s a winter California style,” she said. “Ice skating fun in the sun.”

Thurston hopes the rink to be a successful holiday attraction that will not only benefit the chamber, but the Redlands downtown area

as well by drawing people in to shop locally at the surrounding businesses and eateries.

The ultimate goal, she said, is to make Downtown Redlands a holiday destination.

“We thought the ice rink would be a good cornerstone for this,” she said.

“A downtown holiday —Christmas trees, lights, Santa and carolers— would be extraordinary.”

But the future of that is dependent on the rink’s success, Thurston added.

“We’re hoping for something that’s well received so we can bring the rink back next year and continue on with bigger plans,” she said. “So far, we’re getting an incredible response from the public and they seem to be embracing the idea of a holiday downtown.”

The rink accommodates 40 people and offers a spectator area. It’s

open daily with evening and night hours, which include open skating and private figure skating lessons.

Reservations for skating times can be made by calling the Redlands Chamber at 909-793-2546 or online at redlandsonice.com.

Skating cost is $15 per hour for adults and $12 per hour for children, skate rental is included in the price.

For a complete Redlands On Ice schedule and more information visit, redlandsonice.com.

Yazmin Alvarez is a reporter with Inland Empire Community Newspapers and can be reached at iecn.yazmin@gmail.gmail.com

COURTESY PHOTO/MICHAEL PATRICK

Redlands On Ice will be open daily through Jan. 1. Open skating and night skating, along with private figure skating lessons are available to the public.