Inland Empire Weekly February 18 2016

Page 1

Inland Empire Weekly Features, Lifestyle & News You Can Use!

Vol 11, NO. 26

THIS WEEK Gloria’s Corner and Words To Think About

A8

T

All-California Juried Art Exhibit

courtesy photo/leo serrano

- boys & girls clubs

the 22nd annual chocolate Fantasy fundraising gala brought in $100,000 — a record amount for the boys & girls clubs of greater redlands-riverside.

F

By Yazmin Alvarez

or the first time in its 22year history, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Redlands-Riverside’s Chocolate

Fantasy fundraising gala brought in more than $100,000. “It’s all for the kids,” said P.T. McEwen, the club’s CEO. Held Feb. 13 at the Mitten Building in Redlands, the annual

decadent affair — complete with chocolate fountain and champagne — is the club’s signature fundraiser in support of programFor the Kids, cont. on next pg.

LLUCH Foundation gala ‘Illuminate’ lights the path to Vision 2020

Students at Norton Space & Aeronautics Academy celebrate Lunar New Year

INSIDE

For more information visit: http://www.nosevents.com/upc oming-events/art-exhibit/

ONE SECTION, 16 PAGES

A6 A11 A12 A4 A6 A10

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

he National Orange Show announces a Call for Entries for its 67th Annual All-California Juried Art Exhibit. All artwork including painting, drawing, pastel, mixed media, collage, photography, and sculpture are welcome. The deadline to submit is March 7th. There will be an open category and a citrus themed category. Each category will have awards for First ($700), Second ($500), and Third place ($300) as well as six total Honorable Mentions ($100 each). Letters of acceptance will be sent out to artists on March 25th. Art drop-off will take place on April 8th and 9th from 9am to 4:30pm. The Artist's Reception will be held on April 19th from 6pm to 9pm. The Art Exhibit will be on display during the National Orange Show Fair in San Bernardino, CA from Wednesday, April 20th through Sunday, April 24th from 12:00pm to 9:00pm. For 67 years the National Orange Show Art Exhibit has displayed art from talented local and regional artists spanning several counties throughout Southern California. The AllCalifornia Juried Art Exhibit at the National Orange Show was initiated in 1948 by the San Bernardino Art Association with great success. The National Orange Show Board of Directors continued it in 1949 as part of its regular agenda. Download the Call For Entries application here: http://bit.ly/nos2016

A9

Calendar Classifieds Legal Notices Opinion Calendar Sports

February 18, 2016

Call for Entries: Redlands Boys & Girls Clubs Chocolate 67th Annual Fantasy gala sets milestone, raises $100,000

A3 & A5

Dr. Dennis Morgan Brown to Speak at SB Public Library

IECN

.com

T

courtesy photo/lluch

Donations helped drive totals to $1.3 million for loma linda university children’s hospital Foundation gala - illuminate Feb. 11.

The hospital’s recent foundation Palm Springs, featured a heartgala — Illuminate: The Path to warming program telling the story he path to building a new Vision 2020 — raised an extraor- of two-year-old patient Mariah tower for Loma Linda dinary $1,312,165 Feb. 11. Illuminate, cont. on next pg. University Children’s This year’s event, which was presented by the Hard Rock Hotel Hospital just got brighter. By Yazmin Alvarez

www.sbartassociation.com or call Bill Marquez at 909-3275981 or email him at: sbartassociation@gmail.com

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


Page A2 • February 18, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers • Inland Empire Weekly For the Kids, cont. from front

ming for the area’s youth. “All the wonderful donors that gave in sponsorships during the live and silent auctions made it happen this year and are providing bright futures to our kids,” McEwen said. “They are the ones that are providing a service to the children and making the programs and everything possible.” Proceeds raised came from live and silent auctions, including a 6 days 5 nights stay in Washington D.C., and a San Bernardino-based Garner Holt Productions, Inc. Private Tour for 10 people with Founder and Owner Garner Holt, as well as individual donations. Donations are welcomed yearround. To learn more visit www.BeGreatIE.org. Yazmin Alvarez is a reporter with Inland Empire Community Newspapers and can be reached at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com.

courtesy photo/leo serrano

courtesy photo/leo serrano

- boys & girls clubs

Vendors provided decadent sweets and savory bites during the 22nd annual chocolate Fantasy, a fundraising gala in support of the boys & girls clubs of greater redlands-riverside. Illuminate, cont. from front

Salomon. Mariah was treated at LLUCH after being bitten by a dog. A large portion of her face – from the top of her nose to the top of her lip, including a large part of her cheek – was re-implanted by a team of doctors from Loma Linda. “It was the most intrinsically rewarding case we have done,” said Dr. Paul Walker, who along with Dr. Nathaniel Peterson re-implanted Mariah’s face. Three weeks later, Mariah was able to go home. Mariah and her mother, Veronica Pena, were recognized on stage during the gala and offered donors a glimpse into why their support and donations is so critical. The continued support, said Jillian Payne, executive director, LLUCH Foundation, “allows

- boys & girls clubs

bids during a live auction helped raise more than $100,000 in support of the boys & girls clubs of greater redlands-riverside.

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital to illuminate hope and healing in our community.” Among other highlights of the gala were an awards reception to recognize individuals and supporters, an appearance by celebrity Chef Robert Irvine, host of Food Network’s “Restaurant: Impossible,” who helped get the live auction going, and a performance by season 6 contestants The Silhouettes, who closed out the night. Proceeds from the gala will benefit the hospital’s Vision 2020 campaign. To learn more visit www.lluhvision2020.org

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

courtesy photo/lluch

Mariah salomon, 2, and her mother Veronica pena, were recognized during the loma linda gala. Mariah was treated at lluch after being bitten by a dog. her face was re-implanted by a team of doctors.

courtesy photo/lluch

celebrity chef robert irvine helped get the iive auction started during loma linda university children’s hospital Foundation gala - illuminate Feb. 11.


Gloria’s Corner Save the Date:

Now to Saturday, February 20 - the San Bernardino Cultural Foundation presents an Art Exhibit featuring Black artists at the National Orange Show Art Gallery, 689 S. E Street, San Bernardino. Gallery hours are Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m.

Gloria Macias Harrison

New Officers: The San Bernardino County School Board Association (a county wide organization composed of area representatives from Boards of Education and a Trustee from a Community College) held election of officers and area directors at its annual meeting. Congratulations to Cathline Fort, President (Etiwanda School District); Sylvia Orozco, Vice President (Chino Valley Unified); Lorena Corona, Secretary (Fontana Unified); Gloria Macias Harrison, Treasurer (San Bernardino Community College District); Jane Smith, Legislative Chair (Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint Unified); Wilson So, Director Area A (Apple Valley Unified); Kathy Thompson, Director Area B (Central Elementary School District); and James Willingham, Director Area C (Mountain View School District). This Association focuses on Board Development, Advancing K-12 Legislative priorities, Regional Networking, Advocating for quality public education, and protecting the interest of children.

Friday, February 19 - the San Bernardino Chamber of Commerce presents 108th Installation of Officers - Business Expo & Casino Night from 6 to 11 p.m. at the National Orange Show Sports Center Backstretch, 930 S. Arrowhead Ave - Gate 10. For information on sponsorships, Business Expo and Tickets call the Chamber: 909.885.7515

Saturday, February 20 - California State University, San Bernardino is celebrating it 50th Anniversary Homecoming Kickoff Celebration from 4 to 7 p.m. at Coussoulis Arena. This free, open to the public event will feature food vendors, beer and wine garden, live music, kids zone and a Homecoming parade at 3:30 p.m. Complimentary parking available in Lots E & F. For information visit alumni@csusb.edu

Monday, February 22 - the San Bernardino City Charter Review Committee will hold a Community Engagement Forum at 6:30 p.m. at Chavez Middle School, 6650N. Magnolia Ave. The purpose of the forum is to educate the public on the need for Charter Reform, provide an update on the work of the committee and seek public comment and discussion on recommendations being considered by the committee.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • February 18, 2016 • Page A3

receive an update and provide Award Dinner at Shandin Hills input on recommendations being Golf Club, 3380 Little Mountain considered Drive, San Bernardino from 6 to 9 p.m. Waudier "Woodie" RuckerThursday, February 25 - Com- Hughes and Carl Dameron are the munity Action Partnership of San honorees. For sponsorship and Bernardino County presents "End ticket information call Tracy Summer Hunger in 2016" from 9 Youden at 909.793.2463 ext. 123. to 11 a.m. at Heritage Community Center, 7350 W. Liberty Pkwy, Friday, March 11 - State SenaFontana. Featured speaker for this tor Connie Leyva is sponsoring Outreach and promotion training the 2016 Young Women's Leaderis Vincent Keene, Summer food ship Conference from 8 a.m. to nutrition expert. For information 2:00 p.m. at the Jesse Turner Comcall 909.723.1593 or email rhog- munity Center, 15556 Summit garth@capsbc.org Ave., Fontana. The free conference will feature panels on education, Thursday, February 25 - the civic engagement and leadership, San Bernardino City Charter Re- a college resource fair and comview Committee will hold a Com- munity resources booths. A light munity Engagement Forum at 6:30 continental breakfast and lunch p.m. at San Gorgonio High will be provided. For information School, 2299 Pacific Street. The contact Vanessa Wiarco at purpose of the Forum is to educate 909.591.7016 or email the public on the need for Charter vanessa.wairco@sen.ca.gov Reform, provide an update, and seek public comment and discus- Saturday, March 19 - the Wobsion on recommendations being bles present the 3rd Annual Cruise Against Cancer 2016 at Veterans considered. Park, 290 East O Street, Colton. The Car Show runs from 11 a.m. February 29 to March 4 - Read to 6 p.m. and will feature entertainment, opportunity drawings, Across America Week vendors, food and trophies. The Wednesday, March 2 - the show is open to all car clubs, solo Trade Connection Regional Trade riders, motorcycles, bikes and pedForum presents "How to Grow dle cars. For registration informaYour Business Through Exports" tion call Liz at 909.319.3340 or from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the San Paul at 909.227.4616 Bernardino International Airport, 275 N. Leland Way, International Saturday, March 19, - Fundraising Gala Dinner and Auction- Live Terminal. from Crafton it’s Saturday Night Friday, March 4 - Friends of the from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the new Center for Individual Develop- Crafton Hills College Center. For ment (CID) present Night at the i n f o r m a t i o n : Oscars Dinner, Program and www.craftonhills.edu/foundation Awards Reception at the Center, 8088 Palm Lane, San Bernardino Saturday, March 26 - the San at 5 p.m. For sponsorship and Bernardino Symphony presents ticket information call Masterwork Melange, a concert from the whimsical to the sub909.384.5426 lime... a concert to excite the Saturday, March 5 - the 10th senses featuring the Hansel and Annual The State Of Women – this Gretel Prelude by Englebert event recognizes and celebrates Humperinck, Symphony No. 9 by dynamic women who represent the Dimitri Shostakoich, and Piano community. It begins at 10 a.m. at Concerto No. 2 with Rufus Choi, 1686 W. Baseline, Rialto - Logistic piano. Performance starts at 7:30 Center #2 and is hosted by Mayor p.m. with a pre-concert lecture an Deborah Robertson, City Clerk hour before at the California TheBarbara McGee, Woman's Club atre of the Performing Arts, 562 W. of Rialto, NCNW Inland Empire 4th Street, San Bernardino. For inand the IE League of Women Vot- formation and tickets call ers. This free event will feature 909.381.5388 or online at vendor booths, raffles, awards and www.sanbernardinosymphony.org refreshments. Due to limited space or in person at the Symphony ofRSVP is requested - call: fice, 198 N. Arrowhead Ave., San Bernardino 909.820.2519

R

Coming in April: Friday, April 15 - Time for Change (TFCF) 13th Annual Gala from 6 to 9 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Ontario. For information call 909.886.2994

Friday, April 15 - the San Bernardino Valley College Foundation presents its 6th Annual SBVC Athletics Golf Tournament at the Arrowhead Country Club, 3433 Parkside Drive, San Bernardino. Registration starts at noon with Shotgun start at 1 p.m. For sponsorship and registration information call: 909.384.4471 or register on line at www.sbvcfoundation.org Saturday, April 23 - the Rialto School District presents "Putin on the Ritz" at Amina Carter High School from 6 to 9 p.m. This annual program highlights the performing arts talents of students in Rialto School District while raising funds for the district's arts programs.

Monday, April 25 - the Colton Chamber of Commerce presents its Annual Golf Classic at the Arrowhead Country Club, 3433 Parkside Drive, San Bernardino. Registration starts at 8 a.m. with Shotgun Start at 10 a.m. for information: 909.825.2222

Saturday, April 30 - the Assistance League of San Bernardino presents the 55th Annual Signature Headdress Ball, The Ballroom Blitz at the National Orange Show, 689 S. E Street, San Bernardino. There are two performances, matinee event starting at 9:45 a.m. and an evening Gala beginning at 5:30 p.m. For sponsorship and ticket information call 909.792.8460 or 949.494.3513 Quote: "We need to give each other the space to grow, to be ourselves, to exercise our diversity. We need to give each other space so that we may both give and receive such beautiful things as ideas, openness, dignity, joy, healing and inclusion." - Max de Pree

Wednesday, February 24 - the San Bernardino City Charter Review Committee will hold a Community Engagement Forum at 6:30 p.m. at San Bernardino High Thursday, March 10 - the Boy Wednesday, March 30 - Latino To submit an event or info to School Cafeteria, 1850 N. E Scouts of America California In- Education & Advocacy Days Gloria’s Corner please email Street. Residents are invited to land Empire Council present The (LEAD) Summit at California gloharrison@me.com learn about the Committee's work, Whitney M. Young Jr. Service State University, San Bernardino.

Rialto’s Trujillo Takes Oath To Serve On County Committee

afael Trujillo of Rialto was sworn into office for the San Bernardino County Committee on School District Organization on Feb. 10. Trujillo, who was appointed by County Superintendent Ted Alejandre to fill the vacant seat formerly held by Walter Hawkins, will serve the remainder of the term representing the Fifth Supervisorial District. The 11-member County Committee deals with proposed

For information: http:/leadsummit.csusb.edu

changes to school district organization issues, including number of trustees, trustee and school district boundary areas, and unification. The committee has two representatives for each of the five supervisorial districts in the county, plus one member-atlarge. County Committee members cannot be employed by a school district in any county, community college district or county superintendent office. Monthly meetings of the com-

mittee normally are held on the third Wednesday at 6 p.m. Meetings are conducted in accordance with the Brown Act or open meeting law. For more information about the committee, contact Dennis Mobley, acting secretary to the County Committee, by phone at (909) 386-2947 or via email at dennis_mobley@sbcss.k12.ca.us.


OPINION&LETTERS Page A4 • February 18, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

By Yazmin Alvarez

“Odysseo” in Irvine extended through March Cavalia Odysseo

Where:16576 Laguna Canyon Road, Irvine, at I-405 and the 133

I

When: Now through March 13

Information: www.cavalia.net

magine more than 2 dozen horses trotting through a glowing forest or open grassy mountain range, swaying their heads and body as if they were dancing freely in nature — that’s Cavalia Odysseo. While they all stay in line, one spotted beauty trots off to smell flowers and do it’s own thing to capture it’s own attention. It’s the nature of the beast — literally. Then a gentle wrangling from its trainer is all it takes to get the horse back in line. And that’s what the show’s creator and artistic director, Normand Latourelle, hopes the audience captures from the acts, “the relationship between animals and actors.”

Or in this case, the “humanhorse relationship,” he said. “It’s unlike any other.” When I spoke with Latourelle, he explained why he wanted to create the show. He wanted to push the limits of what’s been achieved in entertainment and bring audiences something as impressive and surprising as he did with Cirque du Soleil — Latourelle, was one of the cofounders. Odysseo isn’t quite Cirqueesque. Yes, it has acrobats and aerialists but it’s so much more than that once the horses step into the ring. And don’t think it’s a typical horse show, either. Latourelle is making sure that it’s far from being in a rodeo with dressage and trick riding. “It’s a 6-D experience,” he says. There’s even water involved. It’s hard to explain and it may sound as if I’m all over the place, but Odysseo is a show unlike any other I’ve ever attended. It’s safe to say it’s an adventure. I dragged two teenagers with me and they were beyond impressed. So if that says anything, it definitely keeps you interested. They were astounded. You’ll be impressed. You’ll be touched. You’ll be moved. And, I really feel that’s that beauty behind the show — to bring upon a feeling of pure joy and happiness. Tickets are $29.50 (for children) and up to $269.50 – the higher prices are commanded for a VIP experience that come with a catered meal and tours of the stables after the show.

YOUR COMMUNITY COMMENTARY!

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

Self Reliance to replace inadequate city services

In San Bernardino, the 6th ward sector of the city has been ignored for years and continues to be ignored and neglected by the refusal of the city to provide adequate fire services. In flint Michigan they have been refused basic access to adequate services for years but this was not realized by the world until they were continuously denied access to adequate drinking water. In the poor section of Milwaukee adequate health services are basically nonexistent due to the mass exodus of hospitals and doctors in the poor neighborhoods. In many of the poorest neighborhood all across America you will find a similar story. Some say it is a race problems and others say it is a proper division of resources problem. The facts remain constant, regardless of the previous efforts of equalizing the services in these areas, the status quo has remained. Perhaps a critical analysis of possible solutions can encourage the populace to come closer to the equality of service for which they so desperately long. Let’s examine possible choices of action: 1. The populace of the underserved area can continue what they have been doing, which is:requesting more services, complaining to the politicians and complaining amongst themselves but to no avail. 2. The populace could organize a march from the displaced area of the city to the city hall to bring more attention to the problem. Despite the lack of action on

IECNInland Empire Community Newspapers (909) 381-9898 • FAX 384-0406

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

Deadline is Tuesdays at noon. Readers may also submit their perspectives online at iecn1@mac.com • For advertising inquiries email sales@iecn.com Gloria Macías Harrison Bill Harrison General Manager Diana Harrison Martinez Managing Editor Diana Harrison Martinez Community News Editor Yazmin Alvarez Community News Editor Anthony Victoria Advertising/Classified Sales Bruce Martinez

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

Legal Advertising & Receptionist

Established 1910.

Publisher

Co-Publisher

Established 1876.

RIALTO RECORD

Denise Berver Published weekly on Thursday.

the part of the elected officials of the cities in question, the nearby public has known of the neglect so I believe a march would be a fruitless and dated course of action. 3. The populace could organize politically and elect their own leader to provide them representation at the city hall. However, history has proven this method to be ineffective because once elected self-preservation and financial elevation seems to take precedence over service to the public, or so it seems. 4. The final option which is by far more feasible and rational involves the concept of ‘doing for yourself or similarly, self-reliance. Let us examine this forth concept a little further. From Ralph Waldo Emerson to Malcom X to President Reagan. We all learn that self-reliance is a very valuable resource which should be practiced more often than not. These neighborhoods must create a structure wherein they can receive the badly needed services regardless of their city leader’s refusal to provide adequate and sound services of equality. Milwaukie can redirect the services of their nonprofit organizations to include free medical clinics. It does not take very much to provide a low level of medical service to the community which can prevent the spread of infectious diseases. They can also provide an organized transportation service to take the underserved to other nearby communities to receive govern-

ment medical services from which they cannot be turned away if that medical establishment is receiving federal funds. In Flint Michigan the situation is a bit more complexed and requires much thought to find a solution to the government’s refusal to provide clean water. As far as the 6th ward of San Bernardino City is concerned, you can easily gather a group of men and women, regardless of their qualifications to serve as the front line for any fire emergencies. Make a connection with the 911 service such that your volunteer office is notified of all fire emergencies as well. Thus, when volunteers arrive first they can develop a protocol of what to do to increase the preservation of life and property until the firemen arrive. The refusal to serve certain populaces throughout a city will continue to occur because this is the political climate in which we live. \Generally speaking, if a populace does not have money and does not vote, then they will not be well represented. Thus, when requesting needed, necessary and obligatory action by the city, such request will have the tendency of falling upon deaf ears. Thus, self-reliance is the key to bridging the gap between the city providing inefficient services and those services, which at the very least are minimally adequate. Keith McCarter. B.S., J.D. McCarter University

Don’t keep murderers alive

There are two false beliefs about the death penalty. The first one is that all life has value. I defy anyone to tell me what value the life of Charles Manson has had to society. He has been in prison for more than 45 years for the murders of actress Sharon Tate and Leno and Rosemary LaBianca, and the only thing he has succeeded in doing was to make Doris Tate at-

Colton Courier

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

El Chicano

Established 1969.

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

Inland Empire Weekly Established 2005.

Published weekly on Thursday. Adjudicated as a newspaper of gen- As a community newspaper of Fictitious Business Name Danielle Vasquez eral circulation by the Superior Court general circulation. & Accounting of San Bernardino County, State of Graphic Artist/Web Mgr. Michael Segura CI RCULAT IO N California, case #26583 and thereVERIFICATION BDM I Circulation nterprises fore qualified to publish legal notices. OF CALIFOR-

Inland Empire Community Newspapers Colton Courier • RIALTO RECORD El Chicano • Inland Empire Weekly

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

tend his parole hearings until her squad or hanging — but get it dying day and make her daughters done. do so now. There is a reason there is a hell and it is for the perpetra- First we need to limit the number of appeals. They should only have tors, not their victims. one chance to bring up all their obThe second false belief is that the jections, not bring up the objecdeath penalty was passed to deter tions individually so as to stall for others from committing murder. It time. After that appeal is carried was not. It was to be a deterrent to out, then the death penalty needs the convicted murderer — period. to be enforced swiftly. There are many instances of murderers on death row who, while in prison, commit murder again. A law not enforced is useless. I don’t care how you carry out the death penalty — bring back a firing

Shirley Conley, Gardena

E-mail us your opinions, photos, announcements to iecn1@mac.com. Letters limited to 500 words. www.iecn.com


Inland Empire Community Newspapers • February 18, 2016 • Page A5

Words to Think About: The Life of Henry Thoreau

I

By G. W. Abersold Ph.D.

n September of 2014 I experienced a great thrill. I visited Concord. Massachusetts. It and Lexington were very important during the Revolutionary War. But for my primary interest, it was also the hometown of Henry Thoreau. His grave site and the surrounding wooded area is memorable. A replica of Thoreau’s cabin has been built. It is very near to Walden Pond.

Thoreau cut the original timber and built the cabin himself. It is small, very sparse furnishings and very simple. Today there is a statue of Thoreau in the front of the cabin. As I roamed around the environs, I could not help but think of my favorite statement made by Thoreau. “I went to the woods that I might live deliberately and not come to the end of my life and find that I had not lived at all.” By our standards today, Thoreau had a short life. He was born on July 12, 1817 and died on May 6, 1862 at the age of 45. Most historians and interested persons know of his two years spent building and living in the cabin; but not much else. His mentor and friend was Ralph Waldo Emerson, who was born on May 25, 1803 and died on April 27, 1882, was 14 years older than Thoreau and lived 20 years longer. In July of 1846, when Thoreau was 29 years old, he was put in jail by the Concord constable Sam Staples for not paying his Poll Tax.

He was bailed out-tax was paidprobably by his aunt. The next few years were the most productive for Thoreau as an author and lecturer. Previously he had failed in most of his business ventures. His most influential writing was on Civil Disobedience. He was influenced by being sent to jail, by the Mexican American War (18461848) and his disgust with slavery. Thoreau was an avowed abolitionist of slavery prior to 1865, 245 years after the Pilgrims landed. His essay on Civil Disobedience was first published in 1849. His views advocated a peaceful disobedience to any government that violated an individual’s conscience; as the injustice of his imprisonment; the War with Mexico; and the support of slavery. It is interesting to note that Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi were both influenced by Thoreau’s views in his essay. The historian James M. McPherson defines an abolitionist “as one who before the Civil War had agi-

tated for the immediate, unconditional end to slavery in the United States.” Thoreau actively tried to assist runaway slaves in their quest for freedom. In particular by way of the Underground Railroad. Other famous Abolitionists were: Ralph Waldo Emerson, Harriet Beecher Stowe, William Lloyd Garrison and William Still. In additional to the slavery issue, Thoreau and Emerson were leaders in the philosophical beliefs of Transcendentalism. Thoreau followed Emerson in his belief and practice of it. “It was a school of thought that emphasized the importance of empirical thinkers and of spiritual matters over the physical world. It encouraged scientific inquiry and observation.” Both Thoreau and Emerson were Unitarians. They both emphasized a free conscience and the value of intellectual reason. Libertarianism, today, is close to their views. The two beliefs of Transcendentalism and Unitarianism were par-

allel views and not competitive ideas. With Thoreau’s strong sense of freedom of thought and the right of Civil Disobedience, he was very comfortable with Transcendentalism. For clarification, both men were leaders in accepting Biblical criticism, and the writings of Thomas Carlyle, Samuel Coleridge, and Immanuel Kant. Both men (Thoreau and Emerson) believed that society and organized religion and political partys “ultimately corrupted the purity of individuals.” They also affirmed that people were at their best when truly self-reliant.” One more thought about Thoreau. The Poll Tax that he challenged and he ended in jail for, was a monetary tax, that permitted one to vote in national elections. He had voted without payment. The 29 the Amendment ended the Poll Tax on January 23, 1964. Thank you, Thoreau. Amen. Selah. So be it.

Family Pack entry form and emailed to Alumni Relations at alumni@csusb.edu; or faxed to (909) 537-7052. Deadline to enter is Monday, Feb. 15. Winners of the “Biggest Coyote Family Pack will be announced at the Coyote basketball game of Saturday, Feb. 27. Other highlights of the week include: • John M. Pfau Library’s Open House, on Thursday, Feb. 25, 1-4 p.m., featuring a “Passport Challenge,” where visitors are encouraged to visit as many displays and sites as possible with a prize drawing for those with completed passports. In addition, alumni are invited to visit a photo viewing to help identify people in photos from CSUSB’s photo archives. Alumni and visitors are encouraged to bring photos from their time at CSUSB, which may be scanned on site to add to the archives. • The 4th Annual Pioneer Breakfast on Friday, Feb. 26, 9-11 a.m., at the Santos Manuel Student Union Events Center, sponsored by the Black Faculty, Staff and Students Association. This year’s

theme, “The Shoulders Upon Which We Stand,” will honor four CSUSB individuals: Professor Emeritus Linvol Henry, College of Business and Public Administration; Taft Newman (posthumously), director of Educational Opportunity Program; Jenise Bush, alumna (B.A. 1995; M.A. 2000), assistant principal of Dunn Elementary School, Rialto; and John Futch, alumnus (B.A. 1995; M.A. 2001), former director of the SMSU Cross Cultural Center. In addition, Nadine Chavez, retired director of the Educational Opportunity Program, will receive the Lorraine Frost Award, given to allies in education. Tickets are $20. • The Coyotes men and women’s basketball games vs. Sonoma State at Coussoulis Arena, Friday, Feb. 26. The women will play at 5:30 p.m., the men will play at 7:30 p.m. • The Coyotes basketball vs. San Francisco State, Saturday, Feb. 27; the women’s game will be at 5:30 p.m. and the men’s game will be at 7:30 p.m. Winners of the “Biggest Coyote Family Pack” contest will be announced.

For a complete list of other Homecoming festivities during the entire week, visit http://alumni.csusb.edu. For more information about Cal

State San Bernardino, contact the university’s Office of Strategic Communication at (909) 537-5007 and visit news.csusb.edu.

CSUSB Celebrates A Special Homecoming for the Campus’s 50th Anniversary

C

al State San Bernardino will host a special Coyote Homecoming celebration on Saturday, Feb. 20, as part of the university’s 50th Anniversary. Festivities include a parade and kickoff celebration, along with many other events the following week. The day will begin with a parade at 3:30 p.m. throughout the inner campus, starting outside University Hall and ending at Coussoulis Arena. A Homecoming kick-off celebration follows at Coussoulis Arena from 4-7 p.m., featuring a variety of food, a beer and wine garden; live music by Lifetime Rockers; a classic car display; a photo booth with props, and kidfriendly activities including a bounce house, a clown and face painting. The day’s event is free and open to the public. Attendees are strongly encouraged to RSVP by reserving free tickets at http://alumni.csusb.edu. Those who register by Monday, Feb. 15, will receive a special 50th Anniversary gift at the event. Complimentary parking will be available in Lots E and F. The parade line up will be from 1-3 p.m. in parking Lot C. Student clubs, faculty and staff from campus departments are encouraged to show their school spirit by decorating their own floats and participating in the parade, with prizes for the best floats. Participating in the parade is also open to off-campus community groups and partners who are encouraged to enter their own decorated floats. Groups such as marching bands, drill teams, dancers, walkers and others are also encouraged to sign up. Register online for parade participation a t https://orgsync.com/48802/forms/ 179055. Organizers are also promoting a contest seeking the “Biggest Coyote Family Pack” and encourage families with the most CSUSB graduates to enter. The form may be downloaded at Biggest Coyote


A

Page A6 • February 18, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

C

Calendar

We are reaching out to you to join our growing family of Foster Parents. Come to our orientation session and learn how you can make a difference and share the love. We offer Pre-Certification Training.24-7 Professional Staff Support. Monthly stipends from $877.00-$1048.00. Call Maria at (909) 890-4008 to serve a seat. Colton: First and third Tuesday, Orientation and training are ongo6 p.m.; 650 N. La Cadena Dr. ing. New classes start monthly. Se Highland: Second and fourth habla espanol. Tuesday, 6 p.m.; 27215 Base Line. No meetings in August. Loma Linda: Second and fourth Tuesday, 7 p.m. (check city Web site as dates are subject to change); 25541 Barton Rd. Redlands: First and third Tues- The Democratic Luncheon Club of San Bernardino meet at 12:15 day, 6 p.m.; 35 Cajon St. Rialto: Second and fourth Tues- on Fridays at Club Headquarters, 136 Carousel Mall (near the cenday, 6 p.m.; 150 S. Palm Ave. San Bernardino: First and third tral glass elevator) in San Bernardino. Monday, 3 p.m.; 300 N. “D” St. Speaker Schedule: fternoon Delight 2/5 -Randy De Anda, Chief of Police, City of Rialto Dance Socials 2/12 -DARK (Presidents Day) 2/19-Norma Torres, U.S. ConAll seniors, couples and singles, gresswoman, CD-35 welcome at free dance socials. 2/26- Connie Leyva, State SenaOpportunity to make new friends tor, SD-20 and remember music of our youth. 3/4-Gil Navarro, Advocate and Joslyn Senior Center: First and Former SB County Board of Edsecond Tuesday 2 p.m., 21 Grant ucation; SB Valley Municipal Water Dist. St., Redlands (909) 798-7550. Redlands Community Center: Visit us at www.sbdems.com or Every third Friday 2 p.m., 111 Lu- our new Facebook page at gonia Ave., Redlands (909) 798- www.facebook/SBDems. 7572. allet Folklorico Highland Senior Center: Every Cultural Classes fourth Tuesday 2 p.m., 3102 E. Highland Ave., Highland (909) 862-8104. Mondays 5:30-6:30 5-11yrs,

ity Council Meetings

D

emocratic Luncheon Club of San Bernardino

A

RMC weekly Farmer’s Market

Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. in front of the hospital. Stop by on your lunch break for certified fresh produce and artisan breads. ARMC partners with the Southland Farmers Market Association on the weekly market to help promote health and wellness to the community.

B

lack Lives Matter Lecture

Thursday, February 11 at 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. To celebrate Black History Month, one of the country's most visible academics and social justice activists will present a keynote speech at San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium, 701 S. Mount Vernon Ave., San Bernardino, CA, 92410 on the Black Lives Matter movement. This event is free and open to the public. A longtime social justice activist and organizer, Dr. Hill is the host of BET News, a political contributor for CNN, and Distinguished Professor of African American Studies at Morehouse College. Dr. Hill holds a PhD with distinction from the University of Pennsylvania, and previously held teaching positions at Columbia University and Temple University. His passions include covering education, politics, hip hop, and black identity, and his scholarly research focuses on the intersections between culture, politics, and eduMondays 6:30-8:30 11-adult. No cation. Dr. Hill's lecture is sponcharge. 951-233-7027. Knights of sored by San Bernardino Valley Columbus, 740 Pennsylvania St., College’s Arts, Lectures & Diversity Committee and its Associated Colton, Ca.

B

T

Student Government. In addition ime for Change to his stop at San Bernardino ValFoundation’s ley College, Dr. Hill's speaking tour will take him to Stanford Uni13th Annual Star versity, Johns Hopkins University, Emory University, Wellesley Col- Studded Awards Gala lege, and the University of Califor- Friday, April 15 Social Checkin 6 pm to 7p.m. We will be havnia, Santa Cruz. ing our 13th Annual Star Studded Awards Gala from 6 pm to 9 pm at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Ontario. Should you have any questions please contact Vanessa Friday, February 12. Check-in Perez at vperez@timeforchangeat 10:30 and lunch at 11 a.m. To foundation.org or call her at 909be held at the Fox Events Center, 886-2994. 123 Cajon St., Redlands. Sponsornnual Inland ships Available. Event cost $75 before February 5. For more info or Empire Salute to to RSVP contact Tim Evans at Veterans Parade (909) 335-1600 or email April 30 at 10 a.m. . Saturday, tevans@theunforgettables.com The two-hour event, which will get olton Police Chief underway in downtown Riverside, to Speak to Colton will feature representatives from Area Museum & over 100 organizations, with veterans from each branch of the Historical Society Saturday, February 13. The service taking part in the festiviColton Area Museum and Histori- ties. Riverside resident, Rear cal Society is holding their Adm. Allen E. "Boot" Hill, a monthly meeting with guest highly decorated fighter pilot who speaker Chief of Police Mark was raised in Rubidoux and atOwens of the Colton Police De- tended West Riverside Elementary partment. Chief Owens will be School, Poly High School, and presenting a view of the depart- Riverside Community College, ment’s history, the present and vi- will be honored as this year’s sions for the future. The meeting is Grand Marshal. The parade comheld at the Colton Area Museum mittee is currently seeking spon(CAM), 380 North La Cadena sors, volunteers, and participants. Drive. California. The meeting is Those that are interested in confree and opened to the public. For tributing to this important event more information contact Mike are encouraged to contact Dr. Murphy at 951- 283-4860 or 909- Cheryl-Marie Hansberger at or visit cmhansberger@riversideca.gov. 825-0671 www.ColtonAreaMuseum.com. Regular Colton Area Museum hours are Wednesdays and Fridays 1 to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays 11 Email your calendar a.m. to 2 p.m. items to iecn1@mac.com

U

nforgettable Heart Awards

C

A

BUSINESS & SERVICES

C

hildren’s Way Foster Family & Adoption Agency

MUSIC LESSONS

NAIL CARE

POOL

REGLAZE

TATTOO

TRANSMISSIONS

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

909-798-6700 reglazeandrestore.com

PUNCTURE WOUNDS Tattoo & Piercings

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

2”x2” blk & grey/excludes portraits

Gift Certificates Available

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

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

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

Tel 909-889-1192 • Fax 909-889-5026


Inland Empire Community Newspapers • February 18, 2016 • Page A7


Page A8 • February 18, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

T

San Bernardino Public Library Presents African-American History Program

he San Bernardino Public Library is presenting an African-American History program with Dr. Dennis Morgan Brown on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at 10:00 AM. In this musical presentation, attendees will learn about significant African-Americans, including activists, leaders, and recording artists. From Rosa Parks and Coretta Scott King to Muhammad Ali, learn how these individuals molded a generation. Dr. Brown has presented his programs all across the country and has spoken before the State Assembly, the Senate at the State Capitol, the Mayor’s mansion in Los Angeles, and at the Martin Luther King Center for Social Change in Atlanta, Georgia. This free program will be located in the Bing Wong Auditorium at the Feldheym Library at 555 West Sixth St., San

Courtesy Photo

Bernardino. Contact Linda Adams Yeh at 909.381.8238 or visit

www.sbpl.org for more information.

students and families during Super Sunday. The other CSUSB speakers visiting area churches on Feb. 28 include: · Brian Haynes, vice president, Student Affairs, 10:30 a.m. at Ecclesia Christian Fellowship, 1314 Date St., San Bernardino; · Olivia Rosas, associate vice president, Admissions and Student Recruitment, 10:15 a.m. at Allen Chapel AME, 4009 Locust St., Riverside; · Aaron Burgess, interim director, Santos Manuel Student Union, 9:45 a.m. at Bethel AME, 16262 Baseline Ave., Fontana; and · Kevin Hatcher, assistant vice president and director of intercollegiate athletics, 9:30 a.m. at

Principles of Faith Christian Center, 17977 Merrill Ave., Fontana. Visit the CSU’s Super Sunday website at http://calstate.edu/supersunday for more information. Set in the foothills of the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains, CSUSB is a preeminent center of intellectual and cultural activity in inland Southern California. Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2015-2016, CSUSB serves more than 20,000 students each year and graduates about 4,000 students annually.

CSUSB Officials to Speak at Local African American Churches as Part of ‘CSU Super Sunday’ Outreach on Importance of Going to College

C

al State San Bernardino President Tomás D. Morales and other university officials will visit local African American churches in February as part of the California State University’s Super Sunday initiative to increase the preparation and retention of African American students throughout the CSU’s 23 campuses. The Super Sunday initiative is a partnership between the CSU and leaders in the African American community, and provides support through additional outreach and preparation events, such as the Super Saturday College Fair and the Summer Algebra Institute. “Higher education is so important in our society that it is vital that we prepare our children for college so they are ready once they get to campus,” said Morales. “This is our 50th anniversary year at Cal State San Bernardino, and that’s been part of our message for students to succeed in college. In fact, as we enter our next half century, we are rededicating our commitment to increasing the college-going rate of our children and also their college graduation rates. Morales will speak on Feb. 14 at Cathedral of Praise International Ministries, 3030 Del Rosa Ave., San Bernardino, at the 8 and 11 a.m. services. Along with Morales, CSU leaders, including CSU Chancellor Tim White, will visit more than 100 churches across California in the month of February as part of Super Sunday. More than 100,000 congregants, students and families receive this vital message each year and also receive CSU resources to help them foster a college-going culture at home. Important information about preparing for college, applying to a CSU campus and applying for financial aid will be made available to congregants,

For more information on Cal State San Bernardino, contact the university’s Office of Strategic Communication at (909) 5375007 and visit http://news.csusb.edu.

SBVC Celebrates Black History Month with Free Events for Students, Community

T

hroughout February, San Bernardino Valley College will host several special events to mark Black History Month. All events are free and open to the public, with complimentary parking. Lecture on Black Lives Matter by Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, Thursday, Feb. 11, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium. Dr. Hill is one of the nation's leading intellectuals, a longtime social justice activist and organizer, and host of BET News. A regular political contributor for CNN, Dr. Hill is the Distinguished Professor of African American Studies at Morehouse College, and holds a PhD with distinction from the University of Pennsylvania. Performance by Project21Dance, Friday, Feb. 19, from 7:30 to 9 p.m., San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium. Project21Dance is an innovative dance company known for fusing multiple styles of dance harmoniously, with choreography by San Bernardino Valley College faculty member Maura Townsend. African American Art Show, Monday, Feb. 22 to Thursday, March 10, Clara and Allen Gresham Art Gallery. This special ex-

hibition will showcase pieces by local artists. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Artist Talk with Charles Bibbs, Thursday, Feb. 23, at 5 p.m., Art 144. The work of internationally acclaimed artist Charles Bibbs is featured in museums, galleries, organizations, and homes around the world. He is known for combining realistic and grandiose interpretations of contemporary subjects that are ethnically rooted. From 5 to 8 p.m., the Clara and Allen Gresham Art Gallery will be open for a special art show reception. Black History Month Concert and Civil Rights Celebration, Thursday, Feb. 25, at 12:30 p.m., and Friday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m. North Hall 161. Commemorate the work of civil rights pioneers and the importance of Black History Month during this concert and celebration. Prof. Ed Gomez will also speak. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast, Friday, Feb. 26, 7:30 to 10:30 a.m., Campus Center. Reflect on Black History Month and honor Martin Luther King Jr. during this special breakfast. Please RSVP by Feb. 12 to Shalita Tillman at 909384-8659 or stillman@valleycollege.edu.


Inland Empire Community Newspapers • February 18, 2016 • Page A9

Students at Norton Space & Aeronautics Academy celebrate Lunar New Year

COURTESY PHOTO/NORTON SPACE

& AERONAUTICS ACADEMY

COURTESY PHOTOS/NORTON SPACE

& AERONAUTICS ACADEMY

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade performed traditional songs and dance in Mandarin learned in weekly enrichment classes at Norton Space & Aeronautics Academy in San Bernardino. The performance was held Feb 12 in celebration of the Lunar New Year.

S

By Yazmin Alvarez

tudents at Norton Space & Aeronautics Academy in San Bernardino celebrated the Lunar New Year with a special presentation on campus Feb. 12. Students held an assembly to share traditional performances and songs learned through weekly enrichments classes focusing on Chinese culture and language. The classes have been offered on campus since 2011 as a collaboration with the Confucius Institute at UCLA. With the help of Chinese teacher Shen Yun Hsieh, who choreographed all the numbers and coordinated students from grades kindergarten through eighth grade, students sang songs in Mandarin, performed dances, and chants that ranged from the traditional Chinese/Asian to the modern “Little Apple,” a top-of-the charts pop song in China last year. Other highlights included were the Dragon dance, the Chinese fan dance, and special guests Gordon Soholt, the academy’s CEO, along with three UCLA representatives; Susan Jain,

Emilia Sargent, and Professor Hu from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Norton students were also encouraged to participate in larger community events celebrating the

Lunar New Year, including those in Riverside and in Los Angeles, as a way to celebrate diversity and global awareness.

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade performed traditional songs and dance in Mandarin learned in weekly enrichment classes at Norton Space & Aeronautics Academy in San Bernardino. The performance was held Feb 12 in celebration of the Lunar New Year.


Page A10 • February 18, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Aquinas wins Ambassador League title; earns No.1 rank after big time, small school battle

Courtesy Photo Aquinas High School girls basketball coach and vice principal Ron Simmons has led his girls to three straight Ambassador League crowns.

B

By Harvey M. Kahn

asketball games between small schools like Loma Linda Academy and Aquinas High School don't usually create much mass media attention. Not so of late. These two little titans were the two top teams in the CIF-Southern Section, Division 5AA when they played each other in Loma Linda last

Thursday. At stake was not just the Ambassador League championship but the overall Division 5AA No.1 ranking. Aquinas showed why it was ranked No. 1. The three-time defending Ambassador League champ got off to a 18-6 first quarter lead and then fought off a third quarter comeback by Loma Linda for the 44-30 win. Loma Linda's Corinne Atiga led all scorers with 14 points. Megan Burt led

Aquinas with 12 points, including a 3-pointer with 10 seconds left in the third quarter to give Aquinas a 31-23 lead. Teammate Michaella Elad added 10 points to go with 12 rebounds. Aquinas takes a 24-1 overall record (13-1 Ambassador League) into the post season, while Loma Linda Academy will enter the playoffs with a 20-5 (12-2) record. The teams split two games they played earlier this season. Loma Linda Academy handed Aquinas its only defeat, 49-47 in the first round of league play. Aquinas and Loma Linda are not the only small school powers near the I-10 corridor. Bloomington Christian is the No. 1 ranked team in Division 5A and Mesa Grande Academy in Calimesa is ranked No. 4 in the CIF-Division 6. Bloomington Christian captured the Victory League championship this season by breaking Mesa Grande's 12-year reign. Despite the lack of coverage, these private, faith-based small schools have roster's comprised of loyal players. Although each of the four teams have at least two players capable of competing at the upper division level, not one expressed interest of leaving for more notoriety. "I've been tempted to think about how it would be playing at a bigger high school," said Karyn Clayton, a senior at Loma Linda

Academy. "I have family background here. My mom and brother and sister all went to Loma Linda Academy. It's a Christian school with a better atmosphere and smaller classes." Clayton explained that during the season, Loma Linda does play a few games against bigger schools. Loma Linda has 450 students and Aquinas about 400. "The big high schools have bigger girls who think they can push us around. Some talk to us the whole game and call us little girls and stuff. We defeated a couple of those schools and they kept talking the whole game, even to their bitter end." Clayton said her team doesn't talk back. It's not our mentality. It's not us." Both Aquinas coach Ron Simmons and Loma Linda coach Lucio Camacho explained that their players do more multi-tasking at the small, private school level. That would go for the coaches as well. With his coaching duties, Simmons is the viceprincipal at Aquinas. Camacho also serves as Loma Linda's athletic director. "Our players are encouraged to do more academically and athletically." Camacho said basketball player Corinne Atiga is the (ASB) school president." Atiga also sang a impressive pregame rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Loma Linda junior point guard Jackie Augustines is

Tyla and Tyra Turner led to another strong season for the Cowgirls as they have won 17 consecutive games, including a 14-0 record in the Citrus Belt League. The Division 1A No. 3 seed Fontana Summit (18-4) will host La Quinta in the first round Thursday, February 18. The Lady Skyhawks finished with a perfect 10-0 record in the Sunkist League and all of their wins in the past month have been by 26 points or more. San Andreas League champion Arroyo Valley (25-2), ranked 12th in 1A, will host Temecula

Valley on Thursday. There are two first round matchups featuring local teams against each other. Rialto plays at Chino Hills in a 1A matchup and Rialto Carter plays at Chino in 2AA. For the boys, despite finishing 19-7 with a 12-2 record in the Citrus Belt League, Cajon’s boys basketball team found itself ranked No. 10 in the Division 1A but it will host Corona at home on Wednesday, February 17. Also in 1A, Fontana Summit (20-7) hosts Villa Park. The Skyhawks are coming off a strong

finish to the season as they split wins with Kaiser to claim a share of the Sunkist League championship. Kaiser (23-4) ended up ranked No. 3 in Division 2AA and will host Perris Citrus Hill on Wednesday. Rialto (18-7) went undefeated to finish as the San Andreas League champion and will host Valley View in a 1A matchup. Rounding out the other local matchups, Redlands East Valley hosts Murrieta Mesa in 2A, Redlands plays at Ayala and Miller travels to Oak Hills in 2AA.

Courtesy Photo Loma Linda Academy Athletic Director and girls basketball coach Lucio Camacho has guided his team to the No. 2 ranking in CIF-SS, Division 5AA.

Local Boys, Girls Basketball Teams Reach Playoffs

T

By Richard Dawson

here is lots of basketball talent from San Bernardino County that made this year’s CIF playoffs. A number of boys and girls squads ranked will host games in this week’s opening round. On the girl’s side, Cajon (21-4) was selected to play in the Open Division and will host Sierra Canyon on Saturday, February 20. Last year Cajon advanced to the CIF Southern California Regional semifinals. The return of Kayla Washington, along with

the school's pitcher on the softball team. Aquinas' Michaella Elad could perhaps start for most big schools but says she never thought of leaving for a chance at a scholarship somewhere else. "We all started out playing basketball together at a young age and grew together. I grow in my faith here, where I play for my family, my school, and for God," explained Elad. Bloomington Christian coach Dawnesha Burnside considers coaching at the small school level, "The thinking man's basketball." Burnside formerly coached at Division IAA, Rancho Cucamonga. "I appreciate coaching at this level. It definitely raises our basketball IQ." Simmons added that small schools don't have the selection of players and he takes whoever comes through the door. "We're home grown. No recruiting. No year round travel ball." Bob Walker won 12 league championships and two CIF titles when he coached at Mesa Grande Academy, whose high school enrollment hovers just above 100 students. "There's more to life than basketball at Mesa Grande. The girls have to play all the sports," said Walker. "Anyone can coach great players. At small schools, everyone has to have a role and must feel important."

Photo/Richard Dawson Kayla Washington leads Cajon into a Open Division showdown with Sierra Canyon on February 20.



Page A16 • February 18, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Netherlands basketball duo take their shot at NBA

I

PHOTO/ANTHONY VICTORIA

UC Riverside basketball forwards Robert Boezeman, 20, and Menno Dijkstra, 19, both of the Netherlands. By Anthony Victoria

n a country where soccer is the dominant sport, University of California, Riverside (UCR) basketball players Menno Dijkstra and Robert Boezeman represent a minority. In an recent interview with Global Leader Today, Dijkstra and Boezeman shared that in their na-

tive Netherlands, physical and mental development is limited in relation with basketball. With limited opportunity in their home country, both young men felt they needed to pursue something outside of their comfort zone to truly develop into good athletes and strong leaders. “I wanted something more,” said Boezeman. “I felt my development

was getting stagnant. I had already fulfilled my potential.” Dijkstra agreed and added that he was not a skilled player and aimed to get stronger. “I was not good at all,” he said. “I was just a tall, skinny kid who relied on his lay-up. Just like Robert, I wanted to develop into a good player that could compete at the highest level.” Both young men found the Canarias Basketball Academy, located in the Spanish Canary Islands. The academy, led by former UC Irvine coach Robert Orellana, has produced over 80 NCAA Division I players from around the world. The academy focuses on providing its students with the necessary physical training to perform at an elite level, the nutritional knowledge to maximize the execution of the skills, and the mental approach to be able to perform. The program emphasizes the importance of “living like a pro” in order to maximize results on the court, according to Orellana. “It’s not easy and it’s not for everyone,” he said. “Basketball is a microcosm of life; I’ve always looked at it in that sense. You have to learn to take criticism. You can’t be sensitive. You are told what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.” The physical and mental regimen Canarias demanded took a toll on both Dijkstra and Boezeman. Both said they struggled to adapt to life at the academy. “I remember having to wake up at 5 a.m., practice in the morning, lift weights in the afternoon, eat lunch, practice again, eat dinner, practice in the evening, and sleep,” explained Boezeman. “In the Netherlands you practiced four times a week at max. The intensity provided at the academy was a vast improvement. Everyone [at Canarias] worked

hard everyday, non-stop.” “Was it hard? Absolutely. After a while, you start missing your family, especially as a 15-year-old kid,” said Dijkstra. “Does it make you a stronger athlete and better person? Yes it does. As a man, I feel more mature because of the academy. I learned how to be more organized and more responsible as an individual.” Boezeman, 20, was a top player for the Under-18 SPM Shoeters Den Bosch squad where they were the cup winners and national champions . The 6-foot-7 forward averaged 18 points and 10 rebounds for the season, as Den Bosch lost just one game during their 2013-14 Netherlands national championship campaigns. In 2012, Boezeman was one of the youngest players on the Netherland’s U-18 European Championship team. He averaged 6.0 points and 5.6 rebounds in nine games, and enjoyed double-digit rebound performances against Estonia and Germany, while reaching double figures in scoring against Estonia and Norway. He developed his love for the game at an early age after being encouraged by his mother--a former professional basketball player “I was always around the game. I tried soccer at first, but always being around the basketball gym encouraged me to join in. I was always taller than all the other kids, so the sport was a good fit for me.” Dijkstra, 19, who also played on Netherland’s U-18 European

Championship, helped lead Orellana’s academy team to the Canarian title in 2015, scoring 21 points and grabbing 11 rebounds in the tournament’s title game. He chose UC Riverside over scholarship offers from Portland, Loyola Marymount, UNC Wilmington, Fordham, and Texas-San Antonio. Both say they aspire to play in the United States’ National Basketball Association. “It’s always been a dream for me to play in the NBA. America is like the ‘mecca’ of basketball,” insisted Boezeman. “I played with older guys just for fun as a kid,” he said. “I lived in a small village where there was no basketball courts. I remember my dad constructing a court for me in my backyard, and since then I fell in love with the sport. I practiced almost every day.” Orellana said the two men have developed into great leaders, who in short time will be essential playmakers at UCR. “These two men had hunger,” he said. “They wanted to be good basketball players and always had the dream of playing basketball in the United States.” The former Division I coach had special praise for Dijkstra, who he saw grow from a young “uncoordinated” boy into a leader and the focal point of the team. “The kids have looked up to him. I demanded him to be a leader and he accepted the role,” Orellana said. “I don’t admit it to him, but some days I miss him.”


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.