Anthony Vega in June 2024, ushering in a new era of hope and transformation for its law enforcement department.
With a vision of enhancing staffing, expanding resources for the unhoused, and leveraging advanced technology, Vega is dedicated to modernizing the department to meet the unique needs of the Colton community.
Vega’s journey to this leadership role is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and a deep commitment to family. Born in Orange County and raised across various cities in San Bernardino County, he grew up with a single mother who made countless sacrifices to support him and his brother. Moving frequently, he attended several schools, including North Park Elementary and Alta Loma High School, before he was faced with a life-altering challenge — becoming a father at just 17. This responsibility led him to leave high school, but instead of giving up, Vega chose to fight for a better future. He worked three jobs, eventually obtaining his GED and starting a path that would ultimately lead him to earn two master’s degrees.
“I’m not embarrassed to say that I had to quit school and get a GED,” Vega shared. “I fought
hard to become educated and build a career in law enforcement. When I started in this field, education wasn’t emphasized. But, I wanted to set an example for my kids — to show them that education matters.”
As he took on the demands of fatherhood and multiple jobs, Vega balanced the pressures of daily life with an unyielding drive to succeed. His commitment to education began in the early 2000s, when he enrolled in Coastline Community College, studying online while working full-time. His children were his inspiration; he didn’t want to impose high academic expectations on them without setting an example. By 2008, he had earned his associate degree, followed by a bachelor’s in criminal justice and police management from Union Institute & University. He continued his education journey, motivated by his family and his own desire to serve his community with greater knowledge and skill.
In 2013, however, Vega faced another moment of doubt. Balancing work in the Navy Reserves, a demanding fulltime job, and his children’s active involvement in sports, he questioned whether pursuing his master’s degree was taking too much time away from his family. Yet, his wife and children dispelled his fears.
By Manny Sandoval
In a powerful call for transparency and community involvement, the Just San Bernardino Collaborative and local leaders gathered on November 6 to demand a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) and an open Request for Proposals (RFP) process for the redevelopment of the Carousel Mall in down-
town San Bernardino. The coalition, composed of residents, local organizations, and labor representatives, underscored the need to build a redevelopment model that serves the entire community and addresses long-standing economic and environmental inequities.
"We’re pushing for affordable housing, local hiring initiatives, and green spaces.
Our residents shouldn’t have to choose between paying rent, putting food on the table, or commuting five hours a day for work,” said Celine Perez, Chief of Staff at the Inland Empire Labor Council and a key member of the Just San Bernardino Coalition. “We’re tired of our community being sold out to developers. Past deals have left us with displacement and envi-
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL Colton Chief of Police Anthony Vega being sworn in on June 25th, 2024.
Chief Vega (cont.)
“My wife called me downstairs one night, and she had both of my kids at the counter,” Vega recounted. “She asked them directly, ‘Do you think Dad should continue going to school? How do you feel?’ And across the board, my kids told me I was engaging with them. I thought I was neglecting them, but they reassured me that I was there.”
Encouraged by his family’s unwavering support, Vega completed his first master’s degree in public administration from National University, with his children and wife cheering him on every step of the way. Most recently, in March 2024, he earned a second master’s degree in public safety from the University of Virginia — a current, relevant program that Vega feels keeps him fresh and capable in a changing field.
“Looking back, my family and I see my education as a wise investment,” Vega said. “It has paid off, not only in my career but in showing my children that hard work and sacrifice lead to something greater.”
Throughout his journey, Vega’s grandparents were also a significant source of support. His grandmother, who was present at his swearing-in ceremony and pinned his badge, filled many of the emotional gaps in his life. His late grandfather, whom Vega cherished deeply, had a powerful influence on him, even giving him a Colt 1911 pistol upon graduating from the police academy — a memento that symbolizes the values he brings to his work every day.
Bringing a Fresh Perspective to Colton’s Law Enforcement
After serving five years with the Rialto Police Department as a captain in support services and operations, Vega felt ready for a new challenge. His familiarity with Colton and surrounding areas through his previous role as a detective in the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department made this transition a natural fit.
“Colton has always been a respected agency in the law enforcement community,” Vega remarked. “When I had the opportunity to join, it felt like the right place to bring the experience I’d gained. I was familiar with the community’s needs and wanted to make a difference here.”
Since taking on his new role, Vega has prioritized addressing staffing shortages, recognizing this as a critical step to ensuring the community receives the level of service it deserves. At his arrival, the department had ten sworn vacancies, which they have since reduced to five. Colton’s police force currently consists of 60 sworn officers and 97 total employees, including a robust community services unit. The department has successfully filled several key non-sworn positions, ensuring that calls for non-emergency situations, such as traffic collisions and car break-ins, are handled efficiently.
“Our goal is to build a team that serves Colton effectively,” Vega stated. “We’ve made progress by filling positions, bringing in officers from different agencies, and adding to our ranks through the academy.”
Innovative Programs to Address Homelessness and Mental Health
Recognizing that public safety extends beyond conventional policing, Vega has introduced innovative programs to address the complex issues of homelessness and mental health within Colton. One of his early initiatives was expanding the Multi-Agency Enforcement Team (MET), which deals with non-conventional crimes, such as trespassing and illegal camping. The team’s capacity was doubled in July 2024, allowing for a more comprehensive response to these pressing issues.
On October 1, the department introduced the Social Work Action Group (SWAG), a contracted nonprofit organization that provides services to unhoused individuals five days a week. The program focuses on guiding individuals toward resources that support sustainable living, such as obtaining identification cards to access benefits, assisting with medical appointments, and connecting them to housing and mental health resources.
“After listening to concerns from both staff and the community, I knew we couldn’t wait to act on the
homelessness crisis,” Vega explained. “We needed a program that offered real solutions — one that provided more than just enforcement but a way out for those in need. SWAG gives people that chance.”
In October alone, the city saw three individuals transition from homelessness into a pathway toward selfsufficiency, with two remaining in stable living situations. By partnering with organizations like SWAG and leveraging the resources of the MET team, Vega is committed to fostering long-term change and stability for Colton’s vulnerable populations.
A Commitment to Community Safety and Technological Advancements
Under Vega’s leadership, the department is working to modernize its approach to crime prevention through advanced technology. Plans are underway to implement Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) systems, which will help officers apprehend criminals more efficiently and solve crimes by quickly identifying suspect vehicles. Additionally, Vega has prioritized expanding the department’s body-worn camera and dashboard camera platforms to ensure transparency and accountability in all interactions.
“We’re exploring ways to integrate cutting-edge technology that enables our officers to protect the community better and respond faster,” Vega said. “These advancements will also improve our operational efficiency and address concerns around city liability.”
Vega has also prioritized staffing a dedicated traffic unit to address growing concerns in high-traffic areas like Reche Canyon. Utilizing funding from the Office of Traffic Safety, Vega aims to allocate personnel specifically for traffic-related issues, alleviating the strain on general patrol officers and ensuring focused attention on this critical area.
Empowering the Community Through Increased Engagement and New Roles
Recognizing that community engagement is at the heart of effective policing, Vega is working to enhance the department’s relationship with Colton residents. In addition to the traffic unit, he plans to establish a community liaison position to address issues such as retail theft and build partnerships with local businesses. This new role aligns with Proposition 36, which passed in California on November 5th, strengthens penalties for certain crimes affecting business owners, ensuring they feel supported and secure within the city.
“The people of Colton deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods and businesses,” Vega emphasized. “By addressing retail theft directly and prioritizing community engagement, we’re creating an environment where businesses can thrive and residents feel valued.”
Vega’s leadership is characterized by his commitment to nurturing a strong, capable team within the department. He recently announced key promotions for a captain, lieutenant, and sergeant, which will take effect on November 23. “Building a strong leadership team is essential for where we’re heading,” he stated. “It’s a necessary step to ensure we’re well-prepared to face any challenges ahead.”
Looking to the Future
As Vega looks toward the future, he plans to conduct a comprehensive staffing study in preparation for the new budget cycle beginning in July 2025. His vision includes increasing the department’s workforce to keep pace with Colton’s growth and evolving needs, with an emphasis on specialized roles that support both community engagement and investigative divisions.
“It’s an honor to lead this department, and I am grateful for the support from the community, elected officials, and the incredible team here,” Vega reflected. “Together, we’re turning the page, and I’m optimistic about the direction we’re moving in.”
Chief Anthony Vega’s story exemplifies resilience, dedication, and the power of education and family support. His commitment to building a safe, connected, and supportive community in Colton is already making an impact. With his innovative approach and unwavering dedication to public service, Vega is poised to bring lasting positive change to Colton’s law enforcement landscape.
San Bernardino CBA (cont.)
-ronmental challenges, without the quality of life improvements we were promised. We need a genuine partnership with city officials and developers— one that reflects the community’s needs, not just corporate interests.”
Perez emphasized the need for redevelopment that empowers the community, ensuring that new opportunities allow residents to live, work, and retire in San Bernardino. “Our community deserves an opportunity to build roots and thrive. The corruption and past decisions haven’t worked. We need a sustainable approach that lifts everyone.”
The coalition also called for a commitment to environmental safeguards in the redevelopment project. This includes clean air initiatives, electrification, and accessible green spaces to make San Bernardino not just a commercial hub but a place that is safe, healthy, and livable for all residents. They are pushing to ensure that small businesses and local entrepreneurs have a place in a redeveloped downtown.
Sheheryar Kaoosji, executive director of the Warehouse Worker Resource Center and member of the Just San Bernardino Collaborative, highlighted the crucial need for development that supports a locally based economy. “In the warehouse industry, we see firsthand how essential it is to have accountable, sustainable jobs that are tied to the community,” Kaoosji said. “We can’t depend on the Amazons of the world to define our economic future. We need standards that foster investment in small businesses and ensure quality jobs that contribute to the community.”
Kaoosji further pointed out the struggles local workers face with rising housing costs, a problem amplified by the influx of high-priced developments that are unaffordable for many residents.
“It’s hard for working people to find affordable housing close to work. Many are commuting from the High Desert just to afford rent,” he added. “If the redevelopment of Carousel Mall follows the same model, we’re pushing our own community further away from its center. This project needs to support affordable housing and provide local employment so people can build lives here, not just pass through.”
Duan Kellum, artist and co-owner of Creative Grounds in downtown San Bernardino, echoed these concerns about displacement and rising costs for small business owners.
“[Downtown redevelopment] is going to affect how much we pay [in rent],” Kellum said. “Right now, we’re locked in for five years at a decent rate, but after that, what’s it going to be? With the [4th Street] alley going in, I’m sure there are going to be proposals from businesses with deep pockets. What if someone offers our landlord double or triple what we pay? Where’s that going to leave us?”
The coalition’s urgent push for a CBA reflects a growing movement for San Bernardino to rebuild in a way that centers on the needs and voices of its residents, rather than allowing large developers to dictate the city’s future. A wellstructured CBA, advocates argue, would provide a framework for good-paying jobs, affordable housing, and the infrastructure needed to create a thriving, equitable downtown.
Miriam Nieto, co-director of Just San Bernardino, reinforced the need for community inclusion at every stage. “If we want anything to thrive in this city, the community should be part of the process, sitting at the table with developers and other decision-makers,” she said. “We’re here to remind those in power to include us, and we’re calling on our neighbors to join us in shaping this process.”
Op-Eds
New Report Ranks States on the Health of Women & Children
By Dr. Lisa Saul, UnitedHealthcare, National Director, Maternal Child Health
United Health Foundation recently released its America’s Health Rankings 2024 Health of Women and Children Report. The report provides a comprehensive look at the health of over 59 million women of reproductive age and over 72 million children, examining overall health across the nation, including mental, behavioral and physical health outcomes, as well as social drivers of health outcomes.
Many measures have worsened for women in recent years, such as maternal mortality and drug deaths. Meanwhile, two measures of clinical care for pregnant women — low-risk cesarean delivery and adequate prenatal care — have not changed.
There are bright spots in children’s health, including decreases in the teen suicide rate and the prevalence of overweight and obesity among youth. These were offset by the increase in child mortality.
California ranks 14th among 50 U.S. states, but ranked No. 1 in areas such as Climate Policies, Minimal Tobacco Use among Children and Cigarette Smoking among Women. The state also ranks first in Low Maternal Mortal-
By Harold Pease Ph. D., Community Member
November 5, was the most important election in our nation’s political history. American flags were everywhere so patriotism was strong and the people felt they needed to get back to freedom basics. The silent majority came forward. Donald Trump’s 900+ rallies were attended in numbers never seen before. Kamala Harris rallies had to have a concert with someone famous, or have a previous president, Bill Clinton or Barack Obama, with her to break a thousand attending; worse, or have rally goers paid to attend. As anticipated the people came out for Donald Trump.
In a truly fair election without electronic cheating, illegals voting, voter rolls cleaned up, ballot harvesting, totally uncensored information, media not weaponized and etc. Trump would have won by at least 70%, maybe 75% as we have indicated before. But cheating was off the charts the last two years, more especially the last month, with hundreds of examples, even so, he won with THEIR electronic voting system but not by these percentages. This makes his victory much more profound. No one in American history has experienced more election opposition. Why this profound victory?
ity Rates.
Key findings in our state include:
Unemployment dropped ▪ 44% among female civilians between 2021 and 2022.
Children in Poverty ▪ dropped 12% between 2018 and 2022.
Uninsured Women ▪ dropped 10% between 2021 and 2022.
Well-Child Visits dropped ▪ 7% between 2019-2020 and 2022-2023.
Strengths identified in California include:
Low mortality rate among ▪ women ages 20-44
High WIC coverage ▪ among eligible children ages 0-4
High percentage of in- ▪ fants exclusively breastfed for six months
Challenges facing California:
High prevalence of public ▪ school students experiencing homelessness
High prevalence of unem- ▪ ployment among women
Low prevalence of well- ▪ child visits
The report also highlights the national need to address health challenges and disparities affecting women and children, particularly rising maternal mortality rates. Some of the report’s key national findings include:
Long-term growth in mor-
tality rates: Maternal mortality increased 34% between 2014-2018 and 2018-2022.
Worsening physical health, depression, and drug death rates in women: The prevalence of asthma and obesity both increased in women ages 18-44, by 9% and 8% respectively, from 2019-2020 to 2021-2022. At the same time, depression increased by 11% between 2019-2020 and 2021-2022. Drug deaths also increased by 38% between 2017-2019 and 2020-2022.
Declining teen suicide rates:
The teen suicide rate ▪ dropped by 6% in 2020-2022, down from a 2017-2019 peak. But diagnosed mental health conditions increased by 12% between 2020-2021 and 2022-2023, and child mortality rose by 14% between 2017-2019 and 2020-2022.
America’s Health Rankings, produced by the United Health Foundation, is the longest-running state-by-state analysis of the nation’s health, providing important insights into the health of various populations, including older adults, women and children, and veterans. Policymakers, health officials and researchers use these reports to better understand the specific health concerns in their communities.
For more information, go to www.AmericasHealthRankings.org.
County Awarded $11.8 Million Grant to Boost Homeless Shelter and Housing Capacity
Community News
San Bernardino County has been awarded $11.82 million in the fifth round of Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) funding from the California Department of Housing and Community Development to support the creation of interim and permanent housing options at the county’s innovative Pacific Village homeless services campus in San Bernardino.
“Receiving this funding is an extraordinary step toward addressing the homelessness crisis in our region and making a meaningful impact in providing supportive services to those experiencing homelessness,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “Through this funding, we aim to make a significant contribution toward improving the quality of life in our communities.”
The Pacific Village housing complex serves as a full-service Continuum of Care campus to promote community health and housing options to the county’s most vulnerable residents. The HHAP funds will allow the county to expand housing options, support rapid rehousing efforts, provide supportive services and enhance homeless outreach efforts.
“Homelessness is a pressing challenge that is receiving our focused attention and strategic efforts,” said Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman, who serves on the Board of Supervisors Ad Hoc Committee on Homelessness. “By prioritizing the expansion of housing and connecting individuals and families to vital resources, we anticipate significant progress in addressing the needs of those who are experiencing home-
Why Trump Won and Won Big
Several reasons can be identified. The vast majority of Americans know now that Joe Biden did not win in 2020, Trump did. That Covid-19 was mostly used for mail-in-balloting, which is, and always has been, prone to cheating. That Hunter Biden’s laptop was real and held back from exposure by America’s intelligence community until after the 2020 presidential election. A fourth of Biden voter’s would have chosen Trump had they known this. That the laptop revealed 459 crimes most of which should have put the president’s son in jail for many years—but didn’t. That Biden was personally corrupt, had over 20 shell companies extracting millions from foreign countries, some potential enemies, with Hunter selling state secrets. Classified documents were in Joe’s possession as a U.S. Senator and Vice President in several different places that should have given him a lengthy prison sentence even before he ran for president in 2020,
Americans now know that the CIA was corrupted decades ago—at least since the Kennedy Assassination. That the FBI has turned rogue even leading the January 6 insurrection while dressed as MAGA. That it is the lead suspect for many in the assassination attempts on Trump both at Butler, Pennsylvania and Trump’s Florida Golf Club—it
yet suppresses the telephone conversations on several of the phones of both would be assassins that likely would have exposed accomplices, even themselves, as aiding. That the DOJ was weaponized to go after parents at school board meetings, MAGA, and everyone else exposing Deep State corruption.
Most now believe that the Deep State is real. It has been around since the McKinley presidency preceding the Spanish American War and was in both major political parties thereafter. It was a movement of monopoly tycoons, principally John D. Rockefeller and JP Morgan, seeking first power over the nation, then world economic dominance. It came out of the shadows and organized publicly in 1921 as the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), anyone of major importance thereafter, in either major political party, was CFR connected. The Deep State maintained control over both major political parties through George W. Bush. Its two principle opponents during those years were John F. Kennedy and Barry Goldwater, both destroyed by the Deep State, Kennedy by assassination and Goldwater by election annihilation. The Tea Party movement rose in 2009 against both political parties and Trump, an outgrowth of that movement although not a part of it, opposed the Deep State en-
lessness in our community.”
The state’s HHAP program provides grant funding to help communities support people experiencing homelessness by developing permanent housing and providing rental and move-in assistance, case management services, rental subsidies and other supportive services.
“I want to thank the California Department of Housing and Community Development for providing this critical funding,” said Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., who also serves on the Board of Supervisors Ad Hoc Committee on Homelessness. “The HHAP grant will enable us to improve the quality of life in our communities and provide much needed support to people experiencing homelessness.”
San Bernardino County along with the San Bernardino City and County Continuum of Care previously received $8.6 million during the fourth round of HHAP funding, which enabled them to expand shelter and housing capacity and boost outreach efforts to increase the number of homeless individuals and families accessing services.
The recent HHAP award is in addition to $11 million in Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) from the state to provide permanent housing and other support to people experiencing homelessness. The ERF grant will enable the county to enhance outreach and case management efforts as well as support the development of temporary and permanent housing solutions, including the creation of a tiny home campus.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues to serve the needs of people experiencing homelessness,” said the county’s Office of Homeless Services Chief Marcus Dillard.
tirely. MAGA people rejected their control. Today Deep State control is embedded with the Democrat Party and RINO faction of the Republican Party who both see extinction of themselves if Trump wins.
In this digital war MAGA are the patriots and the Dems and RINOS the globalists. Only the most ill-informed are unaware of this reality. As Democrats flee to MAGA for freedom from the Deep State, most notably Elon Musk, Robert F Kennedy Jr. and Tulsi Gabbard, they are replaced by illegal immigrants who are immersed with gifting for their loyalty: healthcare, food stamps, social security, placement and housing in cities and promised citizenship. These are the invisible army Barack Obama promised should be created— as big as the armed forces. These are likely to rise with chaos never seen before in America if enough cheating fails and Trump wins.
LibertyUnderFire.org has published on all of these topics over many years—793 columns. Trump has slowly, but successfully, awakened the public to this awful condition. It had to be this way to prevent a very bloody civil war in 2020. Trump had to vacate the White House so that Biden and the Deep State could rule to be exposed. Everyone is at a different place on the expo-
sure trail. Not everything we have written above is believed by all but enough is that in an election without corruption which November 5 was not, Trump would have won by at least 70%. This 9 years of awakening, with Trump the principle victim, has prevented a bloody civil war.
There is yet another reason for Trump's victory—tyranny, that most believed eventually would have come to all had he not won! Those who visibly oppose are punished. The DOJ and FBI are Deep State assets now. This last week, the week before November 5 election, nearly four years after the J6 event “suspects are still being arrested, convicted and jailed. This week alone:[a] Father and son from New Jersey [were] arrested—West Virginia man arrested—Illinois man pleads guilty—Texas man found guilty, —2 men from Virginia found guilty—Colorado man sentenced to 3 years —California man sentenced to one year” (Ep. 3489b, Nov. 1, 2024, 34:10). This, after the Supreme Court ruling June 28, 2024, in Fischer v. United States, on Section 1512(c)(2), that overturned most J6 convictions. This SCOTUS decision has been mostly ignored by the Biden / Harris Admin. as they have most other court decisions and the Constitution. The real issue as to why Trump won so big is liberty!
Community News
The HSSBV will be offering three one of a kind Christmas trees during a live auction at their Winter Wonderland Walk & Santa Paw Pet Photos event presented by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians on Saturday, November 23rd.
The first tree is the Peanuts Tree, decorated with handmade Charlie Brown and Peanuts ornaments and includes two tickets to Knott’s Berry Farm! The second tree is the Gold Tree, featuring gorgeous gold ornaments and includes a basket of Golden Oreos and a Golden Doodle stuffed animal.
The third and final tree is the Ginch Tree, featuring Grinch themed décor, the Grinch himself and a Grinch themed travel mug. The event is from 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, with the live auction taking
place at 12:00 pm hosted by Jeff Pope from Hot 103.9.
This event will include photos with Santa; free microchips for pets (while supplies last); a large vendor village to kick off holiday shopping; Winter Wonderland walking trail; amazing raffles; letters to Santa writing station; Pooch Play Area presented by Dances with Dogs Training Center; pet craft ornaments; annual HSSBV pet supply sale; line dancing with your pet and more!
Enter your pet in our Pet Contests for only $5 per pet, per entry! Categories for the pet contest include Best Dressed Female, Best Dressed Male, Most Holiday Spirit and Best Trick. There will also be food and drink vendors throughout the event. Please visit https://hssbv.org/Upcoming-Events for full event details and timeline.
Pets who attend Santa Paws must be nonaggres-
sive and the appropriate temperament to deal with a crowd. All pets must be current on vaccines and on a short, non-retractable leash.
If you would like to make a donation towards this event and/or create your own fundraising page in support of your walk through Winter Wonderland, please visit https://hssbv.org/Upcoming-Events.
All proceeds from this event will go directly to help fund the HSSBV cruelty investigation and humane education programs. Thank you for helping us to care for animals in need!
This event is sponsored by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Earhart Photography, Pacific Premier Bank, All Pro, Bowlero and 24PetWatch.
City of Riverside Fire Department Teams up with ABC7 for the Spark of Love Toy Drive
Community News
The Riverside Fire Department is collaborating with ABC7 and firefighters across Southern California for the annual "Spark of Love" Toy Drive, aiming to bring holiday cheer to underserved youth. The campaign, running from November 11 to December 13, will collect new, unwrapped toys, sports equipment, blankets, and gift cards for children and teens aged 0-17 in the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange, Ventura, and Riverside counties.
Over the last 25 years, "Spark of Love" has collected more than nine million toys, supporting community children during the holiday season. "This initiative not only helps the children receive a gift during the holidays, but it also brings the community together in a meaningful way," said Fire Public Education Coordinator Gina Perez.
Residents can drop off donations at any Riverside Fire Station between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. If firefighters are out on call, donations should be taken directly to the city's main collection point at the Cesar Chavez Community Center, located at 2060 University Ave, Riverside, CA 92507.
Community News
LifeHouse Theater is proud to announce the longawaited return of its celebrated original production, “It’s A Wonderful Life!”, just in time for the holiday season. This cherished musical adaptation brings the heartwarming tale of George Bailey and the residents of Bedford Falls to life, offering audiences an uplifting journey that underscores the true meaning of Christmas. This beloved American tale immortalized by the cinematic masterpiece features captivating performances and lively musical numbers that promise to engage and inspire.
Performances begin Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 7:00 PM and will continue on weekends through December 22, 2024. Performances are Fridays at 7:00 PM, Saturdays at 2:00 PM (except Opening Night) and 7:00 PM, and Sundays at 2:00 PM. In addition to the weekend performances, a special Thursday evening performance will be offered on December 19 at 7:00 PM.
"After six years, we're thrilled to bring back one of
our most beloved and impactful Christmas musicals," says LifeHouse Theater founder and president Wayne R. Scott. "'It’s A Wonderful Life' is as timely as ever, offering an inspiring stage experience that fills hearts with hope and the true joy of the Christmas season."
Tickets are priced at $30 or $26 for adults and $16 or $14 for children ages 3-12 (children under 3 are not admitted). Patrons can purchase tickets online at lifehousetheater.com/tickets, by phone at (909) 335-3037, or in person at the LifeHouse Theater box office. The box office is open Fridays from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM and one hour prior to showtime on performance days. Early reservations are encouraged due to high demand and potential sellouts.
“It’s A Wonderful Life!” is presented by a cast of volunteer storytellers from all over the Inland Empire. The musical stars Zac Swan Van Lent as George Bailey, Sage Manson as Mary Hatch, Willie Behrends as Henry Potter, and Nick Diliberto as Clarence. Also featured are Nathan Smith as Uncle Billy, Larry Wilson as Mr. Gower, Luke Michel as Bert the Cop, Aaron Ramos as Ernie Bishop, Julie Carlson as Ma Bailey, Michael Haro
In addition to dropping off donations, local businesses in Riverside are encouraged to support the drive by hosting a collection box. Donations can also contribute to the "Shop with a Firefighter" program, which helps families in need during the holiday season. Contributions are taxdeductible, with donations payable to the Riverside City Firefighters Foundation, a 501c3 organization.
For more information, potential sponsors or those looking to donate can contact Gina Perez at gperez@riversideca.gov or call (951) 826-5334. Further details and links for electronic donations are available on the Riverside Fire Department's website.
as Pa Bailey, Kambrie Karrow as Cousin Tilly, Brett Scrima as Cousin Eustace, Sierra Pohjola as Violet Bick and Levi Michel as Harry Bailey.
The musical is directed by LifeHouse veteran Jeremy Yeo, who also serves as music director. Yeo’s production staff includes choreographer Nina Jackson, costume designer Beth Derry, sound and lighting designer Josiah Evans, and set designer Jacob Michel.
LifeHouse Theater’s 31st season will continue with an exciting lineup in 2025, featuring “Peter Pan” (Jan. 11 – Feb. 16), “The Count of Monte Cristo” (Mar. 1 – 30), “Esther!” (Apr. 12 – May 11), “The Wizard of Oz” (May 24 – June 29), “The Music Man” (July 12 – Aug. 17), and “Jonah!” (Aug. 30 – Sept. 28). Season passes are available now, offering substantial savings for patrons.
The theater is located at 1135 N. Church St. in Redlands, next to Excelsior Charter School. Free parking is available in back of the theater. More information can be found by visiting the website at www.lifehousetheater.com.
PHOTO HSSBV
A Grinch themed table-top Christmas tree that is being auctioned at the event.
Veterans from Korean War and Vietnam War Receive High School Diplomas at Riverside County Operation Recognition Program
Community News
Two Riverside County residents who were born in New York and served in the United States military during the Korean War and Vietnam War, were presented with high school diplomas decades after forgoing their education to serve their country. William Daniels of Lake Elsinore and Stephen Tomanelli of Poppet Flats donned graduation caps and tassels as the latest graduates of the Operation Recognition Program on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at the Riverside County Office of Education.
“Today’s event offers a profound opportunity to recognize and honor two individuals who have shown sacrifice and unwavering patriotism, and who answered the call to duty when our nation needed them the most,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez, when addressing Mr. Tomanelli and Mr. Daniels at the ceremony. “This event is a way for us to express our gratitude for your service to our nation, for your selflessness, and for your courage.”
The ceremony included performances by the Rubidoux High School Chamber Choir from Rubidoux High School in the Jurupa Unified School District, and the Navy Junior Reserves Officers’ Training Corps (NJROTC) from Martin Luther King High School in the Riverside Unified School District. The Riverside County Board of Education presented the diplomas to both graduates who were joined by friends and family in the audience.
“It gives me immense pride and gratitude to receive this honor at the age of 72. This has been a personal mission and is a testimony to the enduring spirit of education,” said Mr. Tomanelli after receiving his diploma. “This is deeply meaningful and represents the closing of a chapter from more than 50 years ago. This is a reminder that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams and finish one’s schooling. Education is a lifelong journey, and I hope my story of perseverance and determination can show that everything is possible.”
“I was very young when I remember being given an American flag. From that moment, I knew that I had to go into the service. When my grandmother told me about my father serving as a paratrooper, I knew I had to be a paratrooper too.” said Mr. Daniels after receiving his diploma. “It feels really great to receive this diploma.”
A total of 380 veterans have received a diploma through Operation Recognition since 2007. The diplomas are awarded as a joint effort of the Riverside County Board of Education, the Riverside County Office of Education, and the Riverside County Department of Veterans’ Services.
To be eligible for a diploma, individuals must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces in World War II, the Korean War, or the Vietnam War with an honorable discharge, or interned in a Japanese American relocation camp during World War II; and must currently reside in Riverside County. Education Code Section 51440 authorizes the granting of retroactive high school diplomas to eligible veterans. Section 51430 also authorizes the retroactive granting of diplomas to Japanese-American citizens whose internment by federal order in World War II prevented them from graduating from their hometown high school.
About Stephen Tomanelli
Stephen Joseph Tomanelli grew up in the Bronx and attended public schools in New York City before economic pressures forced him to drop out after his sophomore year at Samuel Gompers Vocational High School.
To support himself and his family, Stephen pursued employment options that were a fit for his technical skills. His talents and interests led to employment opportunities in the nascent field of computers and technology.
With the looming prospect of being drafted to serve in the Vietnam War, Stephen decided to enlist in the United States Navy. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1969-1973 in roles ranging from a ceremonial guardsman at Arlington National Cemetery, to a fire control technician and ordnance mechanic on the USS Massey.
After returning to civilian life, Mr. Tomanelli earned his GED, and proceeded to follow multiple occupational opportunities that eventually led him to California. He utilized G.I. Bill benefits to advance his technical skills and purchase a home in the Sunnymead area of Riverside County.
His career in the technology field included providing early computer solutions to municipal and commercial customers in Riverside County. He has owned and operated his own computer sales and service business since 1986.
Mr. Tomanelli has served in various non-profit and public service roles in the region—including as a current Commissioner on the Riverside County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) since 2005.
Mr. Tomanelli is a resident of the Poppet Flats area with one of his grandchildren enrolled in the public schools in Riverside County.
About William Daniels
Shortly after he was born, William Daniels’ brother and mother passed away, and he was raised by his grandmother in Long Island, New York.
In 1952, at the age of 17, Mr. Daniels decided that he would find a way to join the U.S. Army and follow in the footsteps of the father he never met who served during World War II as part of the first Black parachute infantry battalion, the historic “Triple Nickel” 555th Parachute Infantry Company of the United States Army.
While in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, William also jumped out of planes as part of the 187th Regimental Combat Team in the 11th Airborne Division. He served as a medic and surgical technician, among multiple roles that included the motor pool and multiple military occupational specialties. He received the Purple Heart for injuries received while in combat.
After the war, he earned his GED and continued his service to veterans in his role with Kaiser Permanente—which included providing home health care to veterans. As recently as 1998, he was still known to be jumping out of planes as a skydiver.
Mr. Daniels is 89 years old and has been married to his wife, Sylvia, for 31 years. They are residents of Lake Elsinore.
PHOTO RIVERSIDE COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION
Graduates William Daniels and Stephen Tomanelli.
PHOTO RIVERSIDE COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION
2024 Operation Recognition Graduate William Daniels and the Riverside County Board of Education.
Ontario International Airport Celebrates Continued Passenger Growth, Robust Partnerships During State of the Airport
One of the aviation industry’s great success stories was on full display Wednesday as more than 600 business and regional leaders gathered for Ontario International Airport’s (ONT) annual State of the Airport event.
Serving one of the fastest-growing population and economic centers in the United States, ONT will serve more than 7 million passengers this year, up more than 75% since the airport’s return to local ownership in 2016. Ontario International also plays a vital role in the nation’s supply chain, as the 10th largest cargo airport in North America.
“We have posted 43 consecutive months of year-overyear passenger growth, making us one of the very few airports in the world that can claim that. Through the leadership of our board, the great work of our staff, and the support of our community and our business partners,
we have established Ontario International as the airport of choice for millions of people and a leading economic driver for Southern California,” Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners, told the crowd at the Ontario Convention Center.
“This is a celebration of both a great airport and an extraordinary community and region we call home. The Inland Empire is the new heart of Southern California, and we here at ONT recognize and appreciate the important role we play in further establishing the IE as one of the most dynamic population and economic centers in the United States,” said Atif Elkadi, OIAA chief executive officer. “In simplest terms, we are part of something much bigger than even we sometimes realize.”
Wednesday’s event included a fireside chat with Southwest Airlines COO Andrew Watterson, continuing a trend in which top airline executives (Delta CEO Ed Bastian in 2023 and Frontier CEO Barry Biffle in 2022) have made special appearances at ONT’s State of the
Airport event. Watterson discussed industry trends, the shift to assigned seating and other upcoming changes at Southwest and the airline’s enthusiastic support for ONT and the Inland Empire market.
During the past year, Southwest launched new direct service to Nashville and, just last week, announced that it will begin nonstop service between ONT and Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI) in June 2025 – ONT’s first service to Greater Washington, D.C. Ontario also recently added direct service to California’s wine country, Sonoma County, through its new partnership with Avelo Airlines.
Both Wapner and Elkadi praised the local Congressional delegation, notably U.S. Rep. Norma Torres, for their support in securing critical funding for airport improvements, including $90 million for the recently completed rehabilitation of one of the airport’s two runways, and, just last week, $7 million for security and terminal upgrades. Reps. Pete Aguilar and Ken Calvert also have supported the airport’s funding applications.
Other successes highlighted during the State of the Airport event included:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection elevated ▪ ONT’s status to that of a Landing Rights Airport, clearing the way for more international flights and cargo.
The airport’s partnership with SSP America has re- ▪ sulted in the investment of millions of dollars in new restaurants and amenities in both terminals.
ONT recently was ranked No. 2 for customer satis- ▪ faction ranking among airports in California, and No. 4 among all mid-sized airports in the U.S., by J.D. Power and Associates.
The Ontario team has won a number of major ▪ awards from industry groups such as the Moodie Davitt Report. Just last week, its Customer Experience team took home first place among medium airports from Airports Council International-North America.
