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San Bernardino Valley College Breaks Financial Barriers with Free Tuition and Textbook Rentals for Summer 2023

By Manny Sandoval

San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) is making education more accessible to students in the region by offering free tuition for the Summer 2023 semester. In addition, the college is extending its Books+ program until Spring 2024, which provides free textbook rentals and course materials for students.

SBVC Chancellor Diana Rodriguez said, "Imagine having the opportunity to pursue your career dreams without worrying about the financial burden. With our free tuition and textbook rentals initiative, Crafton Hills College and San Bernardino Valley College are enabling you to access the highquality education you need to succeed. Enrolling in summer classes can help you build the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve your career goals, and with experienced faculty to guide you, you'll have the support you need every step of the way."

Chancellor Rodriguez also emphasized the importance of making higher education more accessible for all students, regardless of their financial background. "Initiatives like free tuition and textbook rentals are critical in opening doors of opportunity to everyone in our community. By removing the financial burden of higher education, we are helping to level the playing field and giving every student a chance to succeed," she added.

This initiative is also available at Crafton Hills College in Yucaipa and is funded by COVID-19 relief money aimed at supporting the community. The free tuition program covers the state community college tuition rate of $46 per unit, while student registration fees, ranging from $34 to $44, are not included.

Interim President Dr. Linda Fontanilla commented, "Our hope is that by offering free tuition and book rentals, more students will take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to earn their degree or certificate and enter a rewarding career in our globalized economy."

Empower Small Inland Empire Businesses at an Enchanting Evening Under The Stars Gala

By Manny Sandoval

How To Reach Us How To Reach Us

Inland Empire Community Newspapers

How To Reach Us How To Reach Us

Office: (909) 381-9898

Editorial: iecn1@mac.com

Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Advertising: sales@iecn.com

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Office: (909) 381-9898

Editorial: iecn1@mac.com

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The Highland Area Chamber of Commerce (HCOC) invites you to join them for a dazzling night under the stars at its Annual Evening Under The Stars / Preakness Stakes Night Gala on May 20th, from 6-9:30 PM at the East Valley Water District.

Experience a spectacular evening filled with specialty food, drinks, comedy, live music, and friendly competition on Preakness Stakes Night.

HCOC President Jane Bouch encourages the community to join and support local businesses, "The success of Evening Under The Stars is truly a testament to the City of Highland's unwavering support of small business in the City and its surrounding areas."

Don't miss out on the Best Hat contest for men and women, live music by the Stan Watkins Trio, and a one-hour comedy show by a local comedian.

In addition, savor delicious Hors D'oeuvres from Highland's finest dining establishments, such as Bear Springs Bistro and Lounge, Two Guys Pizza & Pasta, Donut Town, Rosa Marias, Stater Bros, and Thai Spoon, and participate in an exciting auction featuring exclusive items.

Executive Director Chris Nielsen highlights the importance of the Chamber's sponsors, including the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, East Valley Water District, San

Bernardino County Supervisor Dawn Rowe, Assemblymember James Ramos, Inland Empire Community News, and UpDog Media. "Our chamber could not host such an extravagant event without our invaluable sponsors," Nielsen said. "A portion of the funds raised at this year's Gala will also benefit local non-profits, including Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council and The Unforgettables Foundation."

Don't wait - secure your tickets for this unforgettable event now. Register today at highlandchamber.org/event-5211009. Individual tickets are available for $60 or gather your friends and neighbors for a table of 8 for just $450. Be part of this exceptional night and help support local businesses and non-profits in the Highland community and beyond.

Rodriguez further explained the personal significance of the initiative for her, saying, "As someone who personally understands the struggles faced by low-income, first-generation families, I can appreciate how difficult it can be to break the cycle of poverty. One of the biggest challenges is the financial burden that higher education can pose, which often forces students to work long hours to make ends meet. This can make it nearly impossible to focus on their studies and build the skills and knowledge required for long- term career success."

The Books+ program has received widespread praise from students for helping them save on textbooks and course materials. By extending the program until Spring 2024, SBVC aims to ensure even more students can benefit from this resource.

Chancellor Rodriguez encouraged students to seize the opportunity, stating, "We are grateful for the COVID-19 relief funding that has made this initiative possible and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity and pursue their educational goals at Crafton Hills College and San Bernardino Valley College this summer."

All students are eligible for free tuition by registering for classes this summer.

The college has developed a special portal to help new students navigate applying and registering for courses at www.valleycollege.edu/go. More information about free tuition and the Books+ program is available at www.valleycollege.edu/free.

Comic Con Revolution to Bring Together Unprecedented Cast of Avatar: The Last Airbender & Power Rangers, Massive 12K Person Experience in the IE

By Manny Sandoval

The Inland Empire’s premier family-friendly comic convention, Comic Con Revolution (CCR), is gearing up for an unprecedented, star-studded event at the Ontario Convention Center on May 20 and 21, 2023.

The event promises a diverse, action-packed weekend featuring comic book legends, actors, wrestlers, voice actors, celebrities, cosplayers, writers, and more—all in the Inland Empire’s backyard.

“We wanted to build a family-friendly show and bring the best of the industry to the Inland Empire. So we settled upon the IE in 2017 after doing shows in Long Beach, Chicago, Florida, and New York. It’s a way for fans to come out and express themselves, and it’s right in the heart of Southern California,” said Drew Seldin, co-founder, and co-owner of Comic Con Revolution.

Headlining the event is the first-ever reunion of the entire cast of the critically acclaimed animated series, Avatar: The Last Airbender. This groundbreaking gathering has fans flying in from all over the world to witness this historic event. In addition to the cast reunion, attendees can expect panel discussions, photo ops, and an unforgettable experience.

“The panel will be packed out,” Seldin shared. “We have people coming in from as far away as Australia, and it’s just inspiring to see someone that much of a fan of something.”

The event features a stellar lineup of first-time attendees, including Mercedes Varnado, better known as WWE superstar Sasha Banks and Koska Reeves

Rialto honored with SCAG Sustainability Award for IEUA partnership

Community News

Rialto is honored to be the first recipient of the Carmen Ramirez Award for Equity, to be presented by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) at its upcoming General Assembly in Palm Desert.

ability Awards, is named after the late Ventura County Supervisor, who was tragically killed in 2022 after a lifetime of championing sustainability, mobility and equity, and tirelessly supporting numerous local civic organizations.

from the hit Disney+ series The Mandalorian; Scott Grimes and J. Lee from The Orville; and Sean Kanan, the bad boy of karate from Cobra Kai. In addition, comic book royalty like John Romita Jr., Chris Claremont, Jim Starlin, Whilce Portacio, and Marv Wolfman will also attend.

“We’ve carefully curated a guest list that not only celebrates the best of the industry but also provides a truly unforgettable experience for fans of all ages. In addition, our family-friendly focus means everyone can enjoy this incredible event,” added Seldin.

Comic Con Revolution’s commitment to a familyfriendly environment is apparent in its ticketing policy, which allows up to two children aged 12 and under to attend for free with every adult ticket purchased. “

The event also boasts appearances from Power Rangers stars Catherine Sutherland and Walter Jones and Carla Perez, who portrayed the villainous Rita Repulsa. With such a diverse guest list, fans are sure to find something to suit their interests.

As the excitement for Comic Con Revolution 2023 reaches a fever pitch, Seldin and his team are already looking ahead. “We’re already planning for 2024. Our goal is to continue bringing the best of the industry to the Inland Empire while creating unforgettable experiences for our fans,” Seldin concluded.

With an expected attendance of over 12,000 people, Comic Con Revolution 2023 is set to be an unforgettable experience for fans and guests alike. For the latest information and to purchase tickets, visit comicconrevolution.com/ontario.

Tribes, lawmakers, advocates outline obstacles, solutions to confronting violence against state’s Native Americans; Missing and Murdered Indigenous People commemoration on May 5 as two California tribes under State of Emergency

Community News

Tribal leaders, law enforcement representatives and others shared concerns at an informational hearing and a news briefing today about the continuing Missing and Murdered Indigenous People crisis with lawmakers and shared that despite new resources to address the issue, California now has two tribes so disturbed by violence against their members that they have declared states of emergency.

Round Valley Indian Tribes declared a State of Emergency in April, after two members were founded murdered, the latest victims in Northern California of Missing or Murdered Indigenous People. The tribal action was preceded In December of 2021 by the Yurok Tribe, in Humboldt County. The Yurok Tribe action followed seven women reported being approached by possible traffickers and the still unsolved case of Emmilee Risling, reported missing in October 2021.

Summit participants called for implementation of a public notification alert when Native Americans go missing—the 2022

“Feather Alert” law (similar to the AMBER Alert) authored by Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino).

Ramos said, “The July 2021 Year 2 Progress Report about Missing and Murdered people, reported that more than 150 cases were documented throughout the state, which places California among the top 5 states with the highest number of cases.”

He added, “The National Crime Information Center reported 5,712 missing American Indian and

The City is being recognized for its recycled water partnership with the Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA). Under the unique 50-year agreement, Rialto will sell a portion of its recycled water supply to IEUA that was previously sent to the Santa Ana River and eventually to the Pacific Ocean. IEUA will fund the design, construction and operation of a pipeline, pump station and connection between the wastewater plant and the agency’s own recycled water distribution system.

The agreement also sets the stage to design, permit and construct Lake Rialto – a 10-acre natural environment that would include one mile of pedestrian perimeter trails, and provide opportunities for passive recreation, educational programming and public outreach.

The Carmen Ramirez Award, part of SCAG’s annual Sustain-

“As a friend and colleague of Carmen’s on SCAG’s Regional Council, I am honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the City,” said Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson. “We are also extremely proud of our partnership with IEUA as we address one of the biggest environmental challenges we face here in the West and many parts of the world – the availability of water. Advanced recycling technology and innovative partnerships such as this represent a huge step forward, while also setting the stage for the Lake Rialto habitat project.”

Recently, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced $2 million in federal funding to construct the Lake Rialto Habitat Management Community Open Space project, 10 acres of lake and wetlands that will protect vulnerable species and play a vital role in the environmental success for the Santa Ana River Conservation Plan.

Rep. Aguilar Announces $4 Million for Affordable Housing and Supportive Services in San Bernardino Community News

Alaska Native women and girls in the U.S. with only 116 of cases logged by the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System. We can’t stop the violence with that lack of scrutiny and awareness.”

James, who testified at the hearing, stated at a Day of Action to raise awareness on the MMIP issue, ““We got some work to do and again, that’s why we’re here today. It’s us and we are moving this forward as tribes, as a state, as advocates, as organizations coming together, ringing that bell.”

Ramos said this year’s commemoration of MMIP Day included historic observations such as the Capitol Dome illuminated in red from May 2 to May 5 and the first ever Candlelight Vigil scheduled for May 3 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the Capitol’s West Steps.

Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar announced a total of $4,000,000 in federal funding he secured to support sustainable affordable housing and supportive services in San Bernardino. Aguilar secured $1,000,000 for the Sustainable Communities Catalyst Project— a program designed to create and preserve affordable housing while revitalizing local neighborhoods. This funding will help transform vacant lots into energy efficient homes for low-to-moderate income families. He also secured $3,000,000 to support the creation of a resource center at the Arrowhead Grove housing community. This multi-faceted health campus will provide easy access to supportive services to any San Bernardino resident.

“Now more than ever, we need to make it clear to our community that addressing our growing homelessness crisis is our number one priority,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “Securing housing is one part of tackling this crisis. This funding will help precure and preserve affordable housing, while ensuring residents are able to access legal services, financial literary training, immigration services, childcare and other supportive services.”

“As part of a broader strategy to help revitalize neighborhoods throughout the City of San Bernardino, this Community Project Funding award will help revitalize vacant lots, creating transformational opportunities for affordable homeownership,” stated Clemente Mojica, NPHS CEO. “On behalf of the many families that will benefit from this investment, we thank Congressman Pete Aguilar for directing these much-needed resources to the City of San Bernardino.”

“We are thankful to Congressman Aguilar for his unwavering continued support of our community and of the Housing Authority’s mission,” said Maria Razo, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino. “Together, we envision a community in which all individuals have access to resources and opportunities that empower them and enrich their lives. The development of the Arrowhead Grove Community Resource Center is a big step towards that vision and will bring meaningful resources and opportunities to the heart of the City of San Bernardino. We could not do this work without the support of leaders like Congressman Aguilar. Thanks to the Congressman’s efforts, he was able to secure $3 million in Community Project Funding to help fund the development of the Community Resource Center, demonstrating his continued commitment to the residents of San Bernardino. We are proud to work alongside the Congressman and so many community partners to make our vision a reality.”

On April 26th, 2023, San Bernardino County announced homelessness in the area increased by 26% in the last year. Additionally, almost 40% of county residents experiencing homelessness became homeless for the first time in the last year.

American political activist Angela Davis shares thoughts and experiences with CSUSB community

Community News

The Cal State San Bernardino and local community gathered in the Santos Manuel Student Union (SMSU) North and virtually on Zoom to listen to the thoughts and experiences of Angela Davis, American political activist, philosopher, academic and author.

Topics during the April 17 event were wide ranging: feminism, intersectionality, social justice, environmentalism and racism were all discussed through a discussion moderated by Angie Otiniano Verissimo, CSUSB associate professor of health science and human ecology, and Alexandra Thambi, biology major and chair of the SMSU board of directors.

“I like to construct feminism as broadly as possible. But at the same time, I like to be specific. … I say this because there was a time I did not identify with feminism,” Davis said, noting that when she published a book called “Women, Race and Class,” people started referring to her as a feminist.

“I was writing about Black women,