Ramos, Rogan, Dignitaries, Court Staff, Tribal Cultural Performers, Celebrate California Native American Day
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Highland Chamber Aims for RecordBreaking Participation at Annual Walk/Run Supporting Children's Fund
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Wellness Ranch Leads
Empire Community Newspapers
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Editorial: iecn1@mac.com
11th Annual Rendezvous Back to Route 66 Car Show to Celebrate Automotive History on October 5th
By Manny Sandoval
Classic car enthusiasts get ready to hit the brakes and take a cruise through history at the 11th Annual Rendezvous Back to Route 66 Car Show, scheduled for Saturday, October 5, 2024.
The streets of downtown San Bernardino will roar to life from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, as the city celebrates its rich connection to the iconic Route 66, promising a day filled
Community News
The City of San Bernardino has announced it has received a $5,279,592 Safe Streets and Roads for All grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to design and construct safety improvements at locations with high traffic collision rates in the City.
“San Bernardino is working hard not only to pave our streets, but to make them safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians,” said Mayor Helen Tran. “This grant will make a huge difference at five locations that have a history of accidents and injuries.”
with classic cars, live entertainment, and endless family fun.
Presented by the San Bernardino Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of San Bernardino, this beloved event marks 34 years of honoring the legendary highway that shaped America's automobile culture. It’s a must-see for car aficionados and families alike, transforming downtown into a vibrant display of nostalgia and community spirit.
Event Highlights:
Classic Car Displays: Expect an eye- ▪ catching array of classic cars, hot rods, and custom vehicles, all polished to perfection. From vintage beauties to muscle cars, ▪ there’s something for every car lover.
Live Entertainment: Feel the groove ▪ with live performances of oldies hits by a local band and DJ, making the atmosphere electric with the sounds of yesteryear.
Family Fun: Enjoy activities for the Route 66 cont. on next pg.
30th Street from San Gabriel Street to ▪ Cedar Street
Meridian Avenue from Etiwanda Street ▪ to Rialto Avenue
Kendall Drive from University ▪ Parkway to H Street
"Ensuring the safety of San Bernardino’s public roads and sidewalks is crucial for our community’s quality of life," said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I am grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation for providing this much-needed funding, which marks a crucial step towards building a more secure and connected community.”
pedestrian refuge islands, buffered bike lanes, ADA compliant curb ramps, speed limit reductions, and other traffic calming measures.
To determine the street segments with the highest need for safety improvements, the City developed a Local Roadway Safety Plan (LSRP) using the California Highway Patrol’s traffic records system for the fiveyear period between 2016 and 2020. A total of 8,855 traffic collisions took place in the City during that time frame. The intersections and street segments with the most collisions were chosen for this project.
Suicide Prevention Efforts As Two Los Osos High Students Die by Suicide
The “Revitalizing Roadway Safety in San Bernardino” proposal identified five highrisk locations that have high collision rates, a high incidence of fatalities or severe injuries, or are near schools and residential areas.
The intersection of Highland Avenue & ▪ Eucalyptus Drive
9th Street from Waterman Avenue and ▪ Del Rosa Avenue
The project includes multiple safety strategies to address the most common crash types and primary collision types, such as broadside, rear-end, and vehicle/pedestrian collisions. These collision types are often attributed to speeding, right-of-way violations, and unsafe turning.
The project will use proven countermeasures to design safer roadways. These countermeasures could include traffic signals, high-visibility crosswalks, curb extensions, improved sidewalk connectivity,
The analysis found that a section of Kendall Drive between University Parkway and H Street had the most traffic accidents during the five-year period with a total of 154 traffic collisions including nine with severe injuries or fatalities.
The Safe Streets and Roads for All program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. It was established through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2022.
PHOTOS MANNY SANDOVAL
(Left photo) A modified classic car cruising down the intersection of Court Street and N D Street at last year’s event on October 7th, 2024. (Right photo) A San Bernardino family enjoying classic cars as they walk down N D Street.
Route 66 (cont.)
whole family, including games, local food vendors, and more to keep the energy high throughout the day.
Community Spirit: Immerse yourself in the warm, welcoming spirit of San Bernardino as the community comes together to celebrate its Route 66 legacy.
Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or just looking for a fun-filled family outing, this year’s Rendezvous Back to Route 66 promises a one-of-akind experience that showcases automotive excellence and a deep connection to America’s roadway history.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, October 5, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: Downtown San Bernardino, 546 W. 6th Street, San Bernardino, CA 92410
For more information, visit the event organizers’ website at https://www.facebook.com/RendezvousBackToRoute66 or contact them at (909) 885-7515.
Don’t miss your chance to join thousands of car lovers and community members for a full day of automotive history, fun, and entertainment.
Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties President and CEO Jon Dunn Announces Retirement After 31 Years of Service
Community News
Jon Dunn announced today that after 31 years of dedicated service, he will be retiring as president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties (PPOSBC). Dunn has spent the last three decades tirelessly working to advance reproductive health care access in southern California by expanding the compassionate, high-quality health care services Planned Parenthood offers to every patient that walks through the door, regardless of ability to pay.
A CEO Search Committee has been formed to thoughtfully select the next leader who will guide the organization to continued growth. A search process will be underway over the next few months and Dunn will participate in the transition to ensure a seamless process.
“The opportunity to serve at the helm of PPOSBC has been an honor,” said Dunn. “I am proud of what we as an organization have been able to achieve together, with our amazing staff, generous supporters, dedicated community members, and our committed board of directors. PPOSBC will continue to provide quality, compassionate care to every person who walks through a health center’s doors. I look forward to PPOSBC’s continued success as they grow and thrive under new leadership.”
PPOSBC is currently one of the largest Planned Parenthood affiliates in the U.S. by patient volume, and provides more services than any other affiliate nationwide. Last year, PPOSBC provided nearly $3 million in health care services to patients across Orange and San Bernardino Counties who were unable to pay, and had nearly 270,000 medical visits. Patients in Orange and San Bernardino Counties come to Planned Parenthood for a wide variety of health care needs, including cancer screening, birth control such as oral contraceptives, IUDs and vasectomies, breast exams, testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pregnancy testing, abortion care, sexual health education and counseling, and WIC services for parents such as breastfeeding support and nutrition education. PPOSBC’s
comprehensive primary care arm, Melody Health, offers primary care services including wellness exams, vaccines, and cold and flu care, and also includes an online mental health practice.
“We are immensely grateful for Jon’s hard work, compassion, and commitment above all to our patients,” said Nancy Kriz, PPOSBC board chair.
“He is truly a model for all of us who are working to advance reproductive health care access in Orange and San Bernardino Counties. He has worked to ensure that everyone in our area, no matter their economic status, can live their best, healthiest lives. For so long, Jon has been the heart of PPOSBC, and we’re excited to see him moving to a new chapter in his life.”
Dunn as a Fearless Visionary
Since the beginning of Jon’s tenure, PPOSBC has evolved in a number of positive ways.
When Jon assumed the role of president and CEO in 1993, PPOSBC provided care to about 1,700 patients per month. Now, PPOSBC provides over 20,000 medical visits per month.
Dunn’s leadership has put the organization in a position to respond to a rapidly growing need for quality, affordable health care services in Orange and San Bernardino Counties–even amid legislative attacks on reproductive health care, which accelerated after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade with the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision in June 2022, setting off a cascade of local legislation nationwide that restricted abortion access. This ruling has had catastrophic implications for patients who already struggled to access vital reproductive healthcare–not just abortions, but also birth control and miscarriage management.
In addition to his tireless advocacy for Orange and San Bernardino County patients, Jon has stepped up to help patients in need who are forced to travel to California in the wake of Dobbs, as their states outlawed or severely restricted abortion, or even threatened to criminalize women for miscarriages.
RPYA Announces Grand Opening of Wellness Center in
San Bernardino
Community News
The Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance (RPYA) is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its new Wellness Center on October 11, 2024. This milestone event marks a significant step forward in our mission to support LGBTQ+ youth throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
The Wellness Center, located in the heart of San Bernardino, CA will offer a safe, inclusive, and affirming space dedicated to the mental and emotional well-being of LGBTQ+ youth aged 12-26. The center aims to provide a range of culturally informed services, including health and wellness programs, social-emotional support, and educational resources tailored to the unique needs of our community.
RPYA Health has been hosting youth programs since 2001, which were initially started by an LGBTQ+ youth who wanted a safe space for themselves and their friends. SInce then, many of RPYA Health’s programs have been in partnership with local libraries, coffee shops and art galleries. Having the Wellness Center not only gives RPYA Health a space to grow into their own home, but a space for queer youth to feel safe with a sense of belonging and support.
“We are excited to open this new chapter for RPYA and the Inland Empire,” said Benita Ramsey, Executive Director of RPYA Health. “Our Wellness Center represents our commitment to affirming the full potential of LGBTQ+ youth and embracing their authentic selves. By creating a space that prioritizes wellness and provides crucial support, we are helping to ensure that every young person has the resources they need to thrive.”
The Wellness Center will feature:
Health and Wellness Services: Comprehensive support to enhance mental and emotional well-being, including counseling and therapy.
Educational Programs: Workshops and resources for youth and their families, promoting social-emotional growth and LGBTQ+ education.
Creative and Recreational Activities: Opportunities for self-expression and commu-
nity building through various activities and programs.
Advocacy and Support: Resources and information to engage with and support community and political efforts aimed at fostering LGBTQ+ inclusivity in the Inland Empire.
The center will also have clinicians who will be working with and out of the Center, making it a safe space for youth and families to receive counseling and clinical support. Many of the youth are excited for this, specifically because it also connects them to other community partners.
“It’s very important for people to have access to a place like this,” one youth noted. “In the Inland Empire, there’s only so many places to go for LGBTQ+ support. Being able to have access to this kind of thing in San Bernardino where you can feel safe, it’s very important.”
During a time of emboldened hatred and destructive efforts of those who want to unsettle the LGBTQ+ community, a place like the Wellness Center could not come at a better time. While there has been some societal progress, recent actions from local hate groups have especially affected LGBTQ+ youth in our Inland Empire community. However, now with a true brick and mortar, youth can know that there are organizations in the community that are dedicated to keeping them protected.
“This Wellness Center is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of our commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth,” added the Center’s Director, MIcah Tasaka, a local artist born and raised in the Inland Empire. “We look forward to welcoming young people, their families, and our allies into this space and continuing our work to promote wellness, education, and advocacy.”
The grand opening ceremony will take place at 4:00pm - 8:00pm on October 11, 2024. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the new facility, and an opportunity to meet the RPYA team and community partners. Members of the community are invited to join us in celebrating this important occasion.
For more information about the Wellness Center or to RSVP for the grand opening event, please register here or contact Micah Tasaka at Micah@rpya.health.
Public Safety
Smith and Carrillo for East Valley Board of Directors
By Carol Chrzanowski San Bernardino
My name is Carol Chrzanowski. I have lived in San Bernardino for over 50 years. EVWD is my water provider. As a retired person I am concerned about water costs and how they affect my retirement income.
Unexpectedly, Mr. Smith and Mr. Carrillo showed up in my
neighborhood knocking on doors and introducing themselves to EVWD ratepayers. I was impressed, no EVWD candidate had ever knocked on my door since I moved here. I spoke to Mr. Smith and soon after Mr. Carrillo. I have now done my homework.
There are seven candidates in the race. Only three candidates sent “Candidate Statements,” Smith, Carrillo, and Stoffel. Only Smith and Carrillo have
water industry experience. Stoffel has no experience and is out of touch with reality if he believes he can lower rates and build infrastructure at the same time. The other candidates did not submit statements which can only mean they have no real interest in the position.
Consider voting for Smith and Carrillo, they have the track record and are in touch with the community.
This Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week: It's Time to Put an End to a New Breed of Frivolous Suits
By Victor Gomez, Executive Director, California Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse
You have to just love how using websites can make life so easy. You no longer have to leave the house to shop for a new car or dress. Instead, the internet has also become the breeding ground for those targeting small business owners for technical website violations, suing them with American Disability Act lawsuits.
The technical law allows anyone wanting to scam the system to sit in front of a computer at the kitchen table in the middle of North Dakota, look for technical violations, and file as many ADA website lawsuits against businesses anywhere in the country, seeking to disrupt the livelihood of small business owners for their financial gain. These individuals have realized it's much easier to file digital complaints; it greatly expands their targets, and they are no longer regionally tied to justify barriers.
We all pay the price for higher goods and services, lost jobs, and closed businesses when small businesses get sued for technical violations when no one experienced actual harm. Many business owners have told me those abusing the system do not care about actually buying something online from the store, as their purpose is only to send costly demand letters to thousands of business owners with the hopes that many of the defendants will just send the money to make these suits go away. Sadly, many do, fearing defending themselves would cost even more.
Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week is October 7 through 11th, 2024. Let's do something to protect small business owners from unscrupulous plaintiffs scouring websites in search of faults to pursue lawsuits against businesses. In California, penalties for website violations are much higher due to the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which provides for a fine of $4,000 per violation, a fine that other states do not have, plus attorneys' fees. Often, these so-called "violations" are color contract issues or visual issues that do not have proper programmatic labeling. This malicious legal activity is also known as drive-by lawsuits.
Like most lawsuits, it's far too easy to sue a business for website violations. Attorneys can utilize automated technology to scan websites, and if they come up with a certain number of arbitrary violations on a website, they find a plaintiff and sue. Easy as that.
It doesn't take too many infractions to file a claim, either. It's much too easy for those wishing to game the system to troll websites looking for minor violations actively, even if these violations may not impair access. They aim to "stack" these minor violations to force the defendant to pay a large settlement.
California is also seeing a jump in website accessibility lawsuits, with 359 filings in 2021 compared to 223 in 2020. Website accessibility filings have increased by more than 3,000% since 2018. Serial plaintiffs specifically target California hotels, alleging that the accessibility information
provided on reservation websites is not sufficiently detailed for the plaintiffs to decide whether the hotel meets their accessibility needs. Among the details the lawsuit claims should include are the dimensions of space under desks and sinks. The Department of Justice, however, has made it clear that "a reservation system is not intended to be an accessibility survey."
This Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week, let's push our state lawmakers to address the abusive Americans with Disability Act lawsuit crisis impacting California businesses. Unwarranted ADA brick-and-mortar lawsuits are down because abusive website suits are rising. It's time to end both.
Lawmakers have to stand up and put an end to meritless lawsuits against small business owners, waged in the name of the ADA against both brickand-mortar and website owners, where the plaintiff really hasn't been harmed. Serial litigants file hundreds of these suits a month.
It's only fair for business owners to have time to correct technical issues before being outright sued. Let's push to make stores more accessible rather than being cash cows for those trying to abuse the system. Our economy is already struggling with high taxes and inflation; we cannot afford to punish small businesses that can least afford this internet robbery!
Let's use the internet to call on lawmakers to fix the problem of abusive ADA lawsuits once and for all.
Pedestrian Safety Starts with You: October is National Pedestrian Safety Month
By Rialto PD
October is National Pedestrian Safety Month. Rialto Police Department would like to remind drivers to slow down and be alert for people walking on our roads. By always taking extra precautions, you can help protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of crashes and injuries. Walking should always be an easy and safe option for getting around any community.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 7,522 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes across the United States in 2022. In California alone, 1,158 pedestrian were struck and killed on California roads in 2022, accounting for 26 percent of all traffic-related fatalities in the state. The high number of pedestrians injured and killed on our roads highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and safety measures for people walking.
“Every step we take towards greater pedestrian safety is a step towards saving lives," Rialto Police Department Chief Mark P. Kling said. "We want to remind everyone that safety begins with you, whether you're behind the wheel or on foot. Small actions, like slowing down, putting away distractions and yielding at crosswalks, can make a lifesaving difference.”
To promote the safety of people walking, Rialto Police Department will participate in National Walk to School Week October 7-11. Along with educating our community the department will conduct a traffic safety operations throughout October focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of pedestrians at risk. These violations include speeding, making ille-
gal turns, failing to yield and running stop signs or signals.
Rialto Police Department offers safe driving and walking tips, including staying off the phone when behind the wheel or walking.
Drivers Do not speed, and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn. Never drive impaired.
Pedestrians
Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
Watch for approaching vehicles and practice due care crossing the street. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.
Make it easier for drivers to see you at night – consider wearing bright colors, reflective material, or use a flashlight when practical.
Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night or on busier streets with higher speed limits.
Share your thoughts about pedestrian safety by participating in the Go Safely Movement, a call-to-action traffic safety survey from the California Office of Traffic Safety. Take the survey at gosafelyca.org.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Steve McKinster Named Next Fire Chief in City of Riverside
By Riverside Fire Department
Deputy Fire Chief Steve McKinster, who has 29 years of experience in the fire service, including 25 with the Riverside Fire Department, has been named the city’s next Fire Chief. He starts Oct. 10.
McKinster has held the Chief Officer rank for 12 years, most recently as Deputy Chief for Administration. He will replace Chief Michael Moore, who is retiring after a decade as chief in Riverside and more than 42 years in the fire service. McKinster was chosen as the next Riverside Fire Department Chief after a national recruitment lasting three months with 37 highly qualified candidates applying for the position.
“Steve McKinster is the right combination of leadership, management expertise, and professionalism to lead RFD moving forward,” City Manager Mike Futrell said. “His commitment to Riverside, his integrity, and his understanding of this community’s needs set him apart as our department’s next chief.”
McKinster’s experience includes leadership positions in fire operations, prevention, training, and urban search and rescue, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the Riverside Fire Department. His deep knowledge
of special operations, emergency medical services and disaster emergency response have helped him create strong relationships with other city departments, as well as external agencies, and the state and federal government.
“I have a clear vision for keeping us focused on our daily mission of service while also looking forward to future opportunities for growth,” McKinster said. “Every action I take is driven by a heartfelt desire to make a positive impact and ensure the safety and well-being of both our department members and the community.”
McKinster has been Deputy Fire Chief of Administration for two years, managing three divisions – Fire Prevention, Urban Search and Rescue, and Fire Investigations – and overseeing 26 employees, eight search canines and volunteer members of California Task Force 6. He oversees administrative functions like budgeting and finance, contracts and purchasing, labor relations and more.
McKinster earned his paramedic license from Daniel Freeman Paramedic School; his associate degree in Fire Science from Mt. San Jacinto College; and his bachelor’s degree in Organization Leadership from Azuza Pacific University.
Ramos, Rogan, Dignitaries, Court Staff, Tribal Cultural Performers,
Celebrate
California Native American Day
Community News
Dignitaries including Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) and San Bernardino Superior Court Presiding Lisa M. Rogan of the San Bernardino Superior Court were joined by dignitaries, tribal representatives, and cultural performers to celebrate California Native American Day on Friday, September 27th.
Assistant Presiding Judge Rod Cortez and Court Executive Officer Anabel Romero attended the California Native American Day commemoration conducted a few days in advance of when the actual holiday occurs.
The holiday, celebrated on the fourth Friday of September falls on September 27 this year, and the courts will be closed that day.
Ramos successfully introduced AB 855 in 2021 to grant state court employees the first-ever paid state holiday for any group of state employees on California Native American Day. The bill allowed California’s court staff, covered by a different state code than other state employees, to swap one paid holiday for another. Existing law in 2021 did include the fourth Friday in September as the Native American holiday, but it was
not a paid holiday for state workers. SB 855 deleted the statutory exclusion of “the fourth Friday in September, known as “Native American Day” from the list of state holidays not recognized by the courts.
Ramos, a member of the Serrano/Cahuilla tribe, is the first and only California Native American lawmaker elected in the state’s 174-year history. He labored to enact a paid California Native American Day since 1998.
“I have been working on the idea securing a paid California Native American Day since 1998 when I served my tribe as a council member. I worked on this alongside then-Assemblymember Joe Baca Sr., to create a state holiday. This official commemoration is one more step forward in recognizing and building knowledge about the history, culture and contributions of California’s Native Americans,” Ramos stated.
Rogan said, “It is an honor for the San Bernardino Superior Court to host the California Native American Day press conference. This event is a powerful acknowledgment of the cultural contributions of Native American communities. We are proud to provide a platform to celebrate this day and to stand alongside those
who have worked tirelessly to make California Native American Day a reality.”
Cultural performers included Ramos, Wayne Nelson the Intertribal Bird Singers, Tuolumne MeWuk Singers (Carlos Geisdorff, Carlos Merlin, Sal Diaz, Loren Forde, Jarrett Brunette), Thomas Stone of Bishop Paiute, James Ramos Jr. and Trevor Mathews.
Ramos observed that California has the greatest number of Native Americans residing within its boundaries. “It is important to educate others that we are still here as many saw today with the culture sharing that took place. These practices are not just of the past. Despite attempts to erase our culture, we have preserved our traditions. The performances shared today reflect the beauty and diversity of California’s First People whose ancestral lands span the state.”
The Judicial Council of California sponsored AB 855. Other supporters included the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations, California Tribal Business Alliance and the Nashville-Enterprise Miwok-MaiduNishinam Tribal Council.
Students Seeking Help for Substance Abuse Will No Longer Fear Suspensions
California students will no longer be suspended for voluntarily disclosing their use of substances when seeking help after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 2711, a measure authored by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino).
Ramos said, ““I thank the Governor for signing AB 2711 which is the start of ensuring our youth who may be struggling with substance abuse can seek the help they need. I began my time in the legislature creating the Office of Suicide Prevention to support our youth and now we continue that work with early intervention. The implementation of this bill is important and can be lifesaving. By allowing a student to come forward without fear of suspension ensures we take a proactive approach to those struggling with addiction.”
California Youth Empowerment Network advocate
Caleb Merrill said, “As someone who struggled with mental health and substance use from a young age, I understand how crucial it is to receive understanding and consistent support rather than punishment. AB 2711 represents a shift towards building up our youth instead of pushing them away, creating an environment where every student can thrive. Reflecting on my own experiences, I see how transformative this bill would have been. It would begin to fill the gaps that many of us fall through, encouraging us to reach out to staff who are better equipped to address our challenges. I thank the Governor for signing AB 2711, ensuring a future where every young person is supported and empowered.”
The lawmaker cited California Department of Education data to underscore the troubling numbers of students abusing illegal substances and the uneven application of the punishment:
13 percent of 7th graders used alcohol to get drunk
– that increases to 52 percent by grade 11. 44 percent of 11th graders used cold or cough med- ▪ icine and, 22 percent used prescription pain medications to ▪ get high four or more times in their lives.
Ramos also observed that:
More than 59 percent of drug-related suspensions ▪ are of boys,
More than 83 percent are of socioeconomically dis- ▪ advantaged students, and 83 percent are of color.
▪
Bill sponsors are the California Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, California Alliance of Child and Family Services, California Youth Empowerment Network and Children Now.
PHOTO RAMOS’ OFFICE
Assemblymember James Ramos with Wayne Nelson the Intertribal Bird Singers, Tuolumne MeWuk Singers (Carlos Geisdorff, Carlos Merlin, Sal Diaz, Loren Forde, Jarrett Brunette), Thomas Stone of Bishop Paiute, James Ramos Jr. and Trevor Mathews.
Community News
Highland Area Chamber of Commerce Aims for Record-Breaking Participation at Annual 5K, 10K Walk/Run Supporting Children's Fund
By Julie Faren, Community Writer
The streets of East Highlands Ranch will be filled with runners and walkers challenging themselves for a worthy cause during the fourth annual Highland Area Chamber of Commerce 5k, 10k Walk/Run on Saturday, Oct. 5.
Last year, 205 participants started out at Arroyo Verde Elementary School to chart their courses up steep streets and southern roads as they paced themselves in the early morning hours.
This year, the goal is to have 500 walkers and runners get a good workout in as they travel up Church Street, east on Base Line, then south on Weaver Street and along the flat lines of Greenspot Road before heading north again and finishing in record times in the parking lot at Arroyo Verde Elementary.
10K Runners will NOT enter the parking lot – until they head
up Church Street and go for a second loop on the same course before finishing in the school parking lot for their timed result. Each participant will have a number on their timed bib.
The event will start at 8 a.m. but Registration opens at 7 a.m. for men, women, children, as well as dogs on a leash. Runners & walkers should check in and pick up t-shirts and swag bags prior to the start of the Race. Participants will enjoy visiting vendor booths, picking up free samples, and buying food and beverages before and after the Run.
There also is a Best Dog costume contest that will take place before the Run kicks off.
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Founder and co-director Gail Shelton said there are no age categories and it is a competitive race. Pacific Coast Timing is in charge of the official times , and the electronic chip in each bid automatically records times for runners and walkers when they cross the finish line, said Shelton. Participants should return to the Registration area to check their times. All runners and walkers will receive a commemorative medal when they cross the finish line. First, second and third place medals will be awarded to men and women.
Water will be available through the course and certain parts of the roads will be closed for the safety of the walkers and runners.
Permanente Medicare specialist Call me at
909-674-2572
The cost is $35 for the 5k and $45 for the 10k. All participants are encouraged to pre-register. There is an additional $5 fee for runners/walkers signing up the morning of the Run. Each registered walker and runner will receive a t-shirt, swag bag and commemorative medal.
Teams of five persons - 5K or 10K - will receive a $5 discount. Those forming Teams must call either Run Co-Director – Gail or Molly – to receive a Team Code before registering to receive discount.
Portions of the roads will be closed. Parking is available before 7 a.m. in the school parking lot at 7701 Church St. and on residential streets near the school.
The Children’s Fund in San Bernardino will benefit from a portion of the proceeds, Shelton said. The non-profit organization was founded in 1986 to provide for the underserved children in San Bernardino County.
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*You must meet all Medicare health plan enrollment requirements. Kaiser Permanente is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Kaiser Permanente depends on contract renewal. You must reside in the Kaiser Permanente Medicare health plan service area in which you enroll. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call 1-800-921-2900 (TTY 711). Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., 393 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91188-8514
The Highland Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Highland are co- sponsoring the event. San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is the presenting sponsor. Vendors will be featured in the parking lot and will include sponsors, local businesses, food, and government agencies. The cost to Vendors is $100. Vendors must bring their own tables & Chairs. Spots are not reserved, first come will determine placement.
Please contact Run C0-Directors for more information on sponsorships, vendor information, Run Teams, or Registration.
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
East Valley Water District Governing Board Member David Smith with his dog Goose at the Discover Highland Run in October 2023.
Kaiser
Carolina Meza
Inland Empire
Wellness Ranch Leads Suicide Prevention Efforts After Two Los Osos High Students Die by Suicide
By Manny Sandoval
The Rancho Cucamonga community was shaken once again when 17-year-old Shirin Connor Furutan died by suicide early Thursday morning, jumping from the Haven Avenue overpass onto the 210 Freeway, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
Furutan was pronounced dead at the scene at around 1:30 a.m. His death occurred near the same overpass where 17-year-old Emily Gold, also a student at Los Osos High School, was found dead by suicide on September 13. The tragic loss of two high school students in the span of just weeks has reignited concerns about a mental health crisis, with many fearing a repeat of the suicide cluster that gripped the area a few years ago.
As the community mourns, Angelica Manzo, Executive Director of Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy, is expanding efforts to provide mental health support and suicide prevention resources.
Wellness Ranch, which opened in March 2024, specializes in equine-assisted therapy and is hosting free community events in November aimed at fostering open conversations about mental health. “There’s a domino effect of suicides, when one tragedy occurs a second one often follows in that same community,” Manzo said. “People aren’t having the difficult conversations, asking others if they’re thinking about suicide, and that’s why we’re seeing this cycle.”
To combat this, Wellness Ranch will host Real Talks at the Ranch, a series of free events designed to raise awareness and provide tools for suicide prevention. The event on November 9th will be dedicated to women, and November 16th will focus on men. "These events are about real, transparent conversations. We want people to come together, share their stories, and feel supported,” Manzo explained. Registration is available through Eventbrite.
Wellness Ranch has become a sanctuary for individuals facing anxiety, depression, and self-harm. Using equine
in Rancho Cucamonga
therapy, clients interact with horses and other animals to process emotions and work through mental health challenges. “Animals are incredibly intuitive. A horse can sense a person’s heartbeat from several feet away and reflect that person’s anxiety. Through mindfulness exercises and focusing on the present, we help clients regulate their emotions,” Manzo said.
The center’s approach has shown promising results. One client, who struggled with early dementia and depression, saw a 70% decrease in suicidal thoughts after eight weeks of twice-weekly equine-assisted therapy sessions. "It’s been remarkable to watch these transformations. This therapy offers individuals a safe, non-judgmental environment where they can heal," said Manzo.
National statistics highlight the urgency of addressing suicide prevention. According to the CDC, suicide claimed 49,476 lives in the U.S. in 2022, averaging one death every 11 minutes. Males, who make up 50% of the population, account for nearly 80% of suicides. Suicide rates are highest among men aged 85 and older, and it is the second leading cause of death for individuals aged 10-14 and 25-34.
In response to this crisis, Wellness Ranch is working to make its services as accessible as possible, accepting both private pay and insurance. “We’re actively reaching out to underserved communities, including the deaf and others who often feel invisible. Our goal is to ensure that everyone in need has access to the resources that can help them,” Manzo said.
For those in immediate need of support, Manzo encourages the use of three key suicide prevention resources:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Available 24/7 by call ▪ or text at 988.
Teen Line: Call 1-800-852-8336 (6 PM-10 PM PT) ▪ or text TEEN to 839863 (6 PM-9 PM PT).
Trevor Project LGBTQ Support: Text 'START' to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386 (24/7).
Manzo, who has personally experienced postpartum depression and suicidal thoughts, is committed to removing the stigma around mental health. “Shame often accompanies these feelings, but they need to be talked about. I was able to heal through the resources available to me, and I want others to know they’re not alone in their struggles,” she said.
Wellness Ranch is also seeking sponsors to support its work, which includes covering veterinary care for therapy animals, scholarships for clients, and upkeep of the ranch. "We’re doing everything we can to make a difference, but we need the community’s help to continue offering these life-saving services," Manzo added.
For more information about Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy and their Real Talks at the Ranch events, visit their social media at @wellnessranchtherapy or contact them directly at (909) 710-3055.
PHOTO WELLNESS RANCH
A Wellness Ranch client communicating with one of the center’s therapy animals.
