The Rotary Club of Colton hosted its 4th Annual Teen and Miss Colton Pageant on Saturday, June 22, 2024, in a dazzling celebration of beauty, talent, and community spirit.
The event culminated in the crowning of Reyna Chaves as Miss Colton 2024 and Mia Perez as Teen Miss Colton 2024.
Four princesses were also honored: Jennifer Puga and Aurora Calderon in the Miss Division, and Yaiza Mesa and Sienna Fernandez in the Teen Division.
The evening was electric with anticipation as Dr. G entertained the crowd, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. The Colton NJROTC Color Guard presented the colors, and the audience was moved by 6-year-old Victoria Perez’s stirring rendition of the
By IECN Staff
The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Anthony Parnther, will host its annual “Symphony Under the Stars” concert, “America, the Beautiful,” on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 7:30 p.m. at San Bernardino Valley College's football field. The event will feature a grand fire-
National Anthem. The pageant festivities began early in the day, with contestants participating in interviews at the Colton Chamber of Commerce. They then moved to the Whitmer Theater, where they showcased their athleticism and passions in the sportswear division.
Contestants displayed their favorite sports, hobbies, and future professions, adding a
works display and a world record-breaking piccolo performance.
“Our annual July concert has quickly become a community staple as well as our largest crowd of the year. It's great to see so many people from throughout the Inland Empire joined together as we celebrate America and put on this spectacular show!" Maestro Parnther said.
The concert will include a special performance by Los Angeles-based vocal group DC6, who will join the Symphony in performing music from "The Wizard of Oz," "The Wiz," and "Wicked," along with traditional patriotic pieces. The evening will culminate with Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, accompanied by a fireworks display.
Miss Colton, cont. next pg.
PHOTO COLTON ROTARY
From left to right: Teen Princess Sienna Fernandez, Teen Princess Yaiza Meza, Teen Miss Colton Mia Perez, Miss Colton Reyna Chaves, Miss Princess Jennifer Puga, and Miss Princess Aurora Calderon. The second picture features Ballet de Gary Ferrer. The third picture shows Victoria Perez, Little Miss Princess and singer of the National Anthem. The fourth picture highlights Teen Miss Colton Mia Perez, and finally, Miss Colton Reyna Chaves.
PHOTO SBVC
Maestro Anthony Parnther at last year’s event, also at the SBVC football stadium.
PHOTO SBVC SBVC’s mascott Blue entertaining children outside of the food trucks and vending areas at the college’s football stadium.
Miss Colton
unique personal touch to the competition.
The elegance of the evening gown segment, combined with the poise and intelligence shown during the on-stage questions, impressed both judges and audience members alike. As the judges deliberated, the crowd was treated to a captivating folkloric dance performance by Ballet de Gary Ferrer. Aurora Calderon and Mia Perez received Photogenic Awards for their radiant smiles and captivating presence. Calderon also took home the Miss Congeniality title, while Yaiza Meza was named Teen Congeniality, reflecting the camaraderie and support among the contestants.
The Rotary Club of Colton expressed heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors who made the event possible, including Terri and James Ramos, CR&R, So CA Gas Company, Sayaka Japanese Restaurant, The Dental Center of Colton, Dr. Gill’s Family Dentistry, Colton City Council Members Dr. G and John Echevarria, Assembly Majority Leader Emeritus Eloise Gómez Reyes, Gomez Professional Services, Inc., Grand Terrace Smog Center, 5th
Symphony
In a unique addition to this year’s event, a world record attempt will be made for the largest piccolo performance during John Phillip Sousa’s “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” Symphony piccoloist Kathleen Dyer is spearheading the effort to break the current record of 189 players, set on July 4, 2016, at the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, Texas.
“It has been an absolute joy to receive the registrations - the enthusiasm is contagious – and more will be accepted all month long!” Dyer expressed.
The Symphony is also focusing on welcoming veterans to this year's concert and encourages community partnerships to support this initiative.
"One of the highlights of each summer concert is the performance of The Armed Forces Medley where, traditionally, members of the branch of the service which is being recognized in song stand to the applause of the audience," said Symphony Executive Director Dr. Anne Viricel. “As the mother and mother-in-law of US Army Veterans, and as someone working in a city made strong by the work of our Service Personnel, this moment is something I look forward to every year."
Through a longstanding partnership with VetTix, the Symphony has invited thousands of service members to their concerts. San Bernardino Valley College, known for its Veterans programs, serves as a significant location for this concert.
"We are delighted to host the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra’s concert under the stars at San Bernardino Valley College again this year," said San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez. "This event is a fantastic opportunity to bring our community together in celebration and unity. We look forward to welcoming our military veterans and their families from our Valley College and Crafton Hills College Veterans Resource Centers to join us. Their service and dedication inspire us, and we are honored to celebrate Independence Day alongside them. This evening will be an unforgettable blend of live music, connection, and com-
District Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., Sylvia RomoMiss National Classic Route 66, and the Colton Chamber of Commerce, Nickelodeon Pizza, and Karla’s Flowers for their in-kind donations.
Looking ahead, the Rotary Club announced that the Little Miss Colton Pageant will be held on October 20, 2024, at the American Legion Post 155. Applications are now available at Inland Valley Insurance, 183 W. H Street, or by contacting Pageant Director Erlinda Armendariz at (951) 833-3306. In conjunction with the pageant, a Father-Daughter Dance is set for September 27, 2024.
For those interested in joining the Rotary Club of Colton or learning more about their local and global initiatives, meetings are held every Friday at Denny’s Restaurant on Valley Blvd. at 12:15 PM. The next meeting is scheduled for July 12.
Congratulations to all the winners, and a warm thank you to our sponsors for their unwavering support. This year’s pageant was a testament to the vibrant spirit and unity of the Colton community.
munity pride."
The public is invited to arrive at 5 p.m. to participate in the College’s annual SUMMERFEST, which will offer information on the Veterans Resource Center, various educational opportunities, children's activities, campus tours, and a selection of food trucks. Attendees may also bring their own picnic baskets into the stadium.
Members of the public who wish to sponsor a $10 General Admission ticket for local heroes can visit the Symphony Sponsorship Page, select "Seats for Service Personnel," or mail donations to PO Box 109, San Bernardino, CA 92402. Donations can also be made via credit card by calling (909) 381-5388. All donors will be recognized at the concert and in program books for the following year.
Last year's concert saw over 3,000 attendees, with both reserved table seating and general admission lawn seating available until event time. "Once again, Maestro Parnther has curated a concert that will exceed expectations! This annual evening under the stars has never failed to bring the entire community together to share in the uniting power of music," said Symphony Board of Directors President Donna Marie Minano.
Assigned table seating tickets for "America, the Beautiful" range from $30 to $100 per seat and can be purchased online at www.sanbernardinosymphony.org or by calling (909) 381-5388, Monday through Friday. General admission lawn seats are $10 per person, with children under 12 admitted free.
Attendees with general admission tickets are encouraged to bring low lawn chairs or blankets. San Bernardino Valley College is located at 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino, with free lighted parking available throughout the campus. General admission tickets will also be on sale at the event.
Piccoloists who register, rehearse, and participate in the performance of “The Stars and Stripes Forever” will receive General Admission tickets for themselves and their families.
San Bernardino City Council Faces Tough Decisions as 2024/2025 Budget Exceeds Revenue
By Manny Sandoval
For the first time in nearly five years, the City of San Bernardino’s proposed budget for the fiscal year 2024/2025 projects higher expenditures than revenues, leading to intense debate among city council members during the June 26th special meeting.
Councilman Theodore Sanchez highlighted the fiscal discrepancy, stating, “We have $236.6 million in revenues and the proposed budget is $237.7 million. This is the first time in at least five years that we are projected to spend more than we are projected to make in revenues from all sources. This city unfortunately has one of the most dubious reputations for being one of the largest cities to go through bankruptcy. I want to make sure that the decisions we make here are fiscally sound.”
Sanchez pointed out the impact of adding nearly 150 positions over the last 16 months, noting, “What that does is it expands the bandwidth of the work at city hall but it cuts into capital improvement projects; such as streets getting repaved, bridges getting built, and parks getting cleaned up.” He proposed cuts to previously approved positions, including an additional administrative assistant for the Mayor, which was met with opposition from Mayor Helen Tran.
“Council, I only have one staff in my office and this is just asking for one administrative assistant and I would like to ask the council to help support my office,” Mayor Tran pleaded. Despite her appeal, the council voted to remove the position, with only Councilwoman Sandra Ibarra dissenting.
The council also reconsidered other city positions, leading to further debate. Sanchez proposed eliminating two additional City Council administrative assistant positions, which was re-
futed by Councilwoman Ibarra.
“When I came on board there were four full-time employees in the city council office and now we have one person carrying the burden of four full-time employees. If anyone has tried to call the council office, you tell us, are we responding? If the answer is no, then you know why. We don't have the bandwidth to address all of our citizens,” Ibarra argued.
During the public comment period, Christian Flores of Inland Congregations United for Change urged the council to increase community development and housing funding by $1.5 million to support the general plan update. “For years, community members living in mobile home parks and apartment complexes have been hit with regular rent increases and additional fees that are levied against them from their landlords. I want to express frustration with state-released funding to the county to address homelessness and the amount of times the City of San Bernardino doesn't apply for said funding, and I don't want that to continue to happen,” Flores stated.
Animal services also faced scrutiny, with many community members unhappy about the budget allocation. Lydia Zavala, from animal services, criticized the city's reported 92 percent save rate, calling it “fudged data” and highlighting the need for competitive veterinary salaries. “You’re adding more staff, more space, more programs, and none of this is going to resolve having too many unwanted pets,” Zavala said.
Sharon Negrete echoed these sentiments, labeling the veterinary salary of $150-$168,000 per year as “an embarrassment and a clear indicator of the lack of value this position holds in our community.”
Read the full story at IECN.com.
Supporting Men's Mental Health: A Guide for Women
By Alyssa Hunt, LLUH public relations specialist
In recent years, the conversation around mental health has gained significant traction, highlighting the importance of emotional well-being for everyone, regardless of gender. However, reports from Statista show that men are still far less likely to receive mental health treatment compared to women, and the suicide rate among men is around 3.6 times higher than that of women.
“Men face unique challenges when it comes to mental health that discourages them from pursuing professional support, resulting in untreated conditions that may worsen over time,” says Paola Vidauri, LMFT, Clinical Therapist II in the Substance Abuse and Recovery Program at the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medical Center. “Women can play a crucial role in supporting the men in their lives to help them navigate the stigma around mental health and foster an environment of understanding and acceptance.”
Acknowledge the ‘unspoken rule’
Mental health stigmas in men are often formed early in life, shaped by societal, cultural, and familial influences. As adolescents, boys are typically told to “stop crying” or “suck it up” when faced with emotional stress. This type of emotional discouragement is just one facet of what Vidauri calls the unspoken rule, which includes stereotypes such as:
If a man shows his feelings, he is weak.
A man is the provider of the family, his worth is tied to financial success.
Men are independent and should rely on self-sufficiency to not burden others.
When adolescent boys have feelings of sadness, anger, or grief, they may feel pressure to conform to masculine norms and suppress their emotions, which can lead to unhealthy coping skills.
When adults downplay young boys' emotions, it essentially tells them not to talk, which leads to men feeling uncomfortable if they talk about their feelings as adults, Vidauri says.
“When we get men in our programs who don’t want to talk, it has a lot to do with the unspoken ground rules
they learned growing up, the idea that expressing emotions is reserved for women,” she says.
How women can help
If you are supporting a male loved one through their mental health journey, “don’t give up,” Vidauri reinforces. “I know it’s hard, especially because men must first express themselves in ways they were told wasn’t okay when they were growing up, but don’t give up.”
Here are some ways women Vidauri says can help men navigate their mental health journey:
Sharing Experiences
Discussing mental health helps normalize and destigmatize the topic. Exposure to the topic helps serve as a motivator for men to talk more openly about what they are going through.
Pausing to Listen
Women often find it easier to discuss their experiences, but when conversing with a man who might not be accustomed to opening up, Vidauri suggests taking a moment to listen, as it's important to include his opinions and viewpoints in the conversation.
Invite Them to Your Therapy
When dealing with a man who is reluctant to attend therapy, Vidauri suggests inviting him to your sessions so that they can see what the process is like. “If a woman tells a man he needs to go to therapy, he might get defensive and resist. However, it’s different if she invites him to join her as a part of her supportive network.” The idea is that when a hesitant person sees someone benefiting from therapy, they may become interested and start to view mental health care more positively.
Set Boundaries
Nobody likes feeling uncomfortable, so it's essential to be patient and set boundaries for yourself. While it's important to help those around us, women must remember not to overextend themselves to the point where they become passive and neglect their boundaries.
What if they don’t want help?
Dealing with a loved one who doesn’t want help can be tricky because you don’t want them to shut down or shut you out. “Love them, but don’t work harder than them,” Vidauri says, “because that can make them push
Obituary
Edward Killgore
back.” The more you ask them to get help, the more likely they will avoid discussing personal topics with you.
To help with this, Viduari suggests using the “three rules” method. Instead of bombarding a loved one with texts, calls, and visits, you check on them every three days. This lets them know that you are still there for them, but you respect them enough not to unintentionally burden them or push them away.
Tips for Men
It can be challenging for men to deal with their mental health. Vidauri offers these simple tips to help men manage and improve their mental health.
Exercise: Regular exercise can help reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Vitamin D: Boosting your vitamin D levels by going outside or being near a window helps regulate the mood and ward off depression.
Avoid isolation: Maintaining in-person friendships rather than relying solely on online friends fosters interpersonal support with loved ones.
Build a community: If you can’t surround yourself with friends and family, or you need additional community, there are numerous support groups for issues like depression and addiction.
Eat well: Processed foods might taste good, but a balanced meal benefits the body and mental health.
Get a checkup: Sometimes, a person experiencing mental health issues may have a deficiency in a specific hormone or vitamin, which a doctor can assess.
Self-care: In today's fast-paced society, taking a mental break can be challenging, but stepping back to relax and express gratitude can help a man regain focus on the positive aspects of life.
Click here to explore adult mental health care at Loma Linda University Behavioral Health or call 909-5589275 for personalized assistance and treatment planning.
*Originally published at news.llu.edu
Edward Killgore, a cherished figure in Rialto, California, left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he touched throughout his life. Born on March 1, 1943, in El Centro, CA, Ed passed away peacefully on June 4, 2024, surrounded by his family.
Ed's career as a real estate broker, land developer, and contractor spanned multiple states. His professional achievements, however, were only a part of his remarkable life.
One of Ed's greatest joys was spending time with his loved ones. As a devoted husband to Lucy, a caring father to Brad, Tina, Tim, Briana, and Erik, and a doting grandfather and greatgrandfather, he instilled values of kindness and respect in his children and grandchildren, teaching them the importance of hard work and dedication.
Ed’s passions included classic cars, painting, playing the guitar, and living life on his own terms. He was often seen at local events, sparking conversations and friendships, showcasing his ability to connect with people
from all walks of life.
Ed’s generosity extended beyond his family. He was a pillar of the Rialto community, an elected official, a land developer, and a past president of various charitable organizations. His kindness and willingness to help others made him a beloved figure far and wide.
We reflect not only on his accomplishments but also on his character. His warm smile, hearty laugh, and genuine concern for others made him truly one-of-a-kind. Ed was indeed a great man, loved by many and missed by even more.
Let us each carry forward the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the joy he brought into our lives.
Ed Killgore’s legacy will forever be a beacon of love, integrity, and community spirit in Rialto and beyond. Rest in peace, Ed; your memory will always be a treasure in our hearts.
San Bernardino City Unified And Making Hope Happen Foundation Honor NFL Star
Alexander Mattison With Jersey Retirement Celebration
Community News
In a moving ceremony on June 27, San Bernardino High School (SBHS), the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD), and the Making Hope Happen Foundation (MHHF) honored one of their own, Alexander Mattison, by retiring his jersey.
The star running back for the Las Vegas Raiders returned to his alma mater to a boisterous and warm embrace from the community that saw him rise from a dedicated student-athlete to an NFL standout.
The hour-long ceremony held at the SBHS football stadium was not just about celebrating Mattison’s professional achievements but also his unwavering commitment to his roots. It was an evening filled with emotional reunions, heartfelt speeches and a palpable sense of pride and unity. Family, friends, former
coaches and community members gathered on a balmy evening to pay tribute to a young man who has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for his hometown. Mattison, who graduated from SBHS in 2016, has not only excelled in his professional career but has also remained a dedicated and inspirational figure in his native San Bernardino.
“Seeing my jersey, #22, retired at San Bernardino High School, the place where my dreams began, is incredibly humbling,” Mattison shared, his voice filled with emotion. “This community has always been my foundation. It’s here where I learned the values of hard work and perseverance, and it’s these lessons that have carried me through my career. That’s why I hope to inspire the next generation to dream big and work hard.”
Mattison’s journey from SBHS to the NFL is a story of resilience and dedication. Born and raised in San Bernardino,
he excelled in both academics and athletics. As a dual language immersion graduate, he began learning Spanish at Lincoln Elementary School, attended Arrowview Middle School and graduated from SBHS as a fluent Spanish speaker. His former Pop Warner Coach, Michael Aragon, reminisced about his determination and leadership on the field, traits that have defined his career with the Minnesota Vikings and now the Raiders.
SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano spoke of Mattison’s influence beyond his athletic prowess.
“Alex is a shining example of what our students can achieve,” said Arellano, himself an SBHS alumni. “His powerful story is a testament to the strength of our community and the power of dreams. He has not only made us proud through his achievements on the field but also through his unwavering commitment to giving back.”
Mattison’s impact extends far beyond football. He has remained actively involved in community service, using his platform to inspire and uplift the youth of San Bernardino through his I Am Gifted Foundation. His visits to his alma mater and his involvement in youth sports programs have made a significant difference, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved with dedication and support.
The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of Mattison's retired jersey, which will be displayed in the halls of SBHS. It stands as a symbol of excellence, hope and the limitless potential within every student.
As the event concluded, the sense of community pride was unmistakable. Mattison’s story is not just about athletic success; it’s about the power of dreams, the importance of community support and the enduring impact of giving back.
Jager to Lead County Fire’s East Valley Division Covering San Bernardino, Grand Terrace and Mentone
Community News
San Bernardino County Fire Chief Dan Munsey has appointed Gary Jager as the new Assistant Chief of Division 2, County Fire’s East Valley Division.
Chief Jager will oversee fire, rescue, and emergency medical response for the division. Division 2 encompasses the eastern half of the San Bernardino Valley and includes the City of San Bernardino, City of Grand Terrace, and community of Mentone.
Chief Jager's journey with County Fire started in 1998 as a paid call firefighter in the North Desert Division.
Over the years, he ascended through the ranks, accumulating a wealth of experience across various divisions. His promotion to Battalion Chief in 2016
saw him take on a pivotal role in the East Valley Division, where he managed an array of responsibilities, including training, facilities management, and overseeing the division's budget.
"Chief Jager represents the best of what it means to serve in the fire service," said Fire Chief Dan Munsey. "His dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence are unparalleled. Chief Jager is not just a leader within our ranks; he's a mentor, and a teacher. We are excited to have him overseeing the East Valley Division.”
Chief Jager is a major advocate for continuous learning and improvement. He has been instrumental in the development and implementation of a mentor program for entry-level firefighters.
His commitment to excellence extends beyond the fire station. He is currently advancing his
education in Fire Science at Columbia Southern University and contributes as an adjunct faculty member at Victor Valley College's paramedic program.
Chief Jager is eager to embrace his new responsibilities. He is committed to serving the residents of San Bernardino County and supporting the dedicated men and women of the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District. His leadership and experience will bring about positive changes and continue the tradition of excellence within the department.
For more information about the County Fire Protection District, please visit https://sbcfire.org.
PHOTO SBCUSD
Alexander Mattison (left), a Las Vegas Raider and San Bernardino High School (SBHS) alumnus, is joined by 2023 Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, himself a Cajon High School alumnus, during the ceremony retiring Mattison's SBHS jersey, #22.
Celebrate
Independence Day with FREE and Low-Cost Events Around the Inland Empire
By Manny Sandoval
We've gathered all the information you need for free and low-cost Fourth of July events happening around the Inland Empire. From symphony concerts to fireworks shows, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Check out the details below to plan your perfect Independence Day celebration!
San Bernardino - Symphony Under the Stars
The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Anthony Parnther, will host its annual “Symphony Under the Stars” concert, “America, the Beautiful.”
Location: San Bernardino Valley College's football field, 701 S Mt Vernon Ave, San Bernardino
Date: Saturday, July 6, 2024
Time: 7:30 p.m.
The event will feature a grand fireworks display and a world record-breaking piccolo performance. The concert includes music from "The Wizard of Oz," "The Wiz," and "Wicked," along with traditional patriotic pieces, culminating in Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture. Arrive at 5 p.m. for SUMMERFEST, which offers information on Veterans Resource Center, educational opportunities, children's activities, campus tours, and food trucks. Tickets range from $10 for general admission to $100 for reserved seating and can be purchased online or by phone.
San Bernardino - Inland Empire 66ers Baseball Game and Fireworks Show
Enjoy a thrilling baseball game followed by a spectacular fireworks show as the Inland Empire 66ers face off against the Lake Elsinore Storm.
Location: San Manuel Stadium, 280 S E St, San Bernardino
Date: Thursday, July 4, 2024
Time: 6:35 p.m.
Tickets start at $12. The event features a Red, White, and BBQ Special where for $15, each person receives a ticket to the game and delicious food. This event is coined as the largest fireworks extravaganza in the Inland Empire.
Rialto - Fourth of July Celebration
Join the City of Rialto for a spectacular Fourth of July celebration at Jerry Eaves Park.
Location: Jerry Eaves Park, 1485 N. Ayala Dr.
Date: Thursday, July 4, 2024
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
The event will feature live music by the Best of Everything Band, fireworks, games, giveaways, and delicious food from local vendors. Pre-sale tickets are available for $30, which include a parking pass and five wristbands. Individual wristbands are also available for $5 pre-sale and $7 on the day of the event. Gates open at 4:30 p.m., so bring your chairs and blankets for a day of family fun.
Redlands - Sylvan Park Activities
Redlands' Fourth of July festivities kick off at Sylvan Park with live music, games, food, and booths from local vendors.
Location: Sylvan Park, 601 N University St, Redlands
Date: Thursday, July 4, 2024
Time: Activities start at 9 a.m.
The parade begins at 10:30 a.m., followed by a full day of entertainment featuring performances by DaBandRocksss and the 4th of July Band. Enjoy a variety of activities and food throughout the day.
Redlands - Fireworks Show
The celebration continues with a fireworks show at Moore Middle School, one of the largest in the Inland Empire.
Location: Moore Middle School, 1550 E Highland Ave, Redlands
Date: Thursday, July 4, 2024
Time: Gates open at 5:15 p.m.
The event features a flag ceremony, national anthem, live music by Curtiss Allen Jr., skydivers, airplane flyovers, food vendors, and a beergarten. Tickets for the fireworks show are $12 in advance and $15 at the door.
Riverside - Fourth of July Spectacular
The City of Riverside invites the community to celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display at two locations.
Location: La Sierra Park (5215 La Sierra Ave.) and Mt. Rubidoux (5000 Tequesquite Ave.)
Date: Thursday, July 4, 2024
Time: Fireworks at 9 p.m.
This free event encourages spectators to bring blankets and refreshments to enjoy the show. Note that Carlson Dog Park and Mt. Rubidoux will be closed all day on July 4th, and La Sierra Park will have limited access starting July 3rd at 5 p.m. The City reminds residents that fireworks are illegal within city limits and urges the community to report any illegal use.
Enjoy the festivities and celebrate Independence Day with your community at these exciting events across the Inland Empire!
PHOTO ALEXANDER CABRERA
A view of fireworks atop the North Hall building at San Bernardino Valley College.
