Ec 08 11 2016

e e k l y W EL CHICANo Features, Lifestyle & News You Can Use!

Vol 53, NO. 34

THIS WEEK Gloria’s Corner and Words To Think About

Photo exhibit to showcase immigration str uggles

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Over 1,000 students receive new backpacks, shoes courtesy Redlands Police, Micah House, community A8

Cristen Pedroza to walk-on with intensity at Cal State San Bernardino

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Photo/IEIYC

People marching down Rialto Avenue and E Street during an immigration protest in May.

arships from universities across gling to transfer her education into the U.S. for her track and field employment. Like many immiBy Anthony Victoria abilities. grants across the nation, Regis, who was born in Venezuela to rowing up Nairobi Regis was a bright student-- Today the 25-year-old graduate Exhibit cont. on page 2 receiving multiple schol- of Cal State Los Angeles is strug-

Construction of homeless center put on hold

ONE SECTION, 16 PAGES

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

Health Clinic to take place at Indian Springs

he 22nd Annual Free Family Health Clinic will be held on Sunday, August 14, 2016, from 9 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Indian Springs High School, 650 N Del Rosa Drive, San Bernardino, California 92410. This free clinic is for people who do not have health insurance or the means to pay for health care.

The Health Clinic will be providing free services including: dental services; internal medicine; women’s and children’s medical health care; eye, ear, nose and throat medical services; blood sugar and cholesterol screenings; alternative medicine and acupuncture.

This event will be staffed by medical professionals, staff and volunteers from the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, and our local community.

This year, the Tzu Chi Foundation will be partnering with the San Bernardino City Unified School District, Lucky Farms, and local community organizations.

Information: Please call 909-381-1294.

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August 11, 2016

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Calendar Classifieds Legal Notices Opinion I.E. Revisited

IECN

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Photo/AnthonY VICtoRIA

the proposed site of Mary’s Village for Men will stand on Walnut Street between Pico Avenue and San Marcos Street in San Bernardino. this is how the area looks now.

was put on hold after the City serve approximately 120 homeless Council voted against the project men in the city by providing housing, educational, and job training he construction of a home- on August 1. services. The center is supposed to less center in San Bernardino’s third ward Mary’s Village, the name of the proposed center, was slated to Homeless cont. on page 2

By Anthony Victoria

Have a ne ws lead?

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ontact El C h i c a n o reporterAnthon y Victoria at (909) 6376369 or at victoriaanthony91@gmail.com

Page A2 • August 11, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers • El Chicano

Exhibit cont. from front

verse.”

Participants of the exhibit are required to utilize disposable camHaitian immigrants, is hoping eras to take photographs of items, people to understand the struggles or people that demonlocations, of immigrants like her. strate their immigrant struggle.

“By sharing my story, it will help people understand that we’re not thugs or rapists,” she said. “We’re trying to survive. I mean, I graduated college, just like many people out there. I want people to understand that I’m just as hardworking as they are.”

Regis is among several dozen people who will be sharing their immigration experiences through a photo exhibit that will take place on August 18 at the Riverside Art Museum. The ‘Immigrants of the IE’ showcase is a collaboration between the Museum and the Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice (ICIJ), explained immigrant rights organizer Luis Suarez.

“The Coalition strategized and wanted to change the traditional narrative of immigrants that’s always depicted in the media,” Suarez explained. “This exhibit will do just that. It will portray an immigrant struggle that is di-

the computer room at Veronica’s home of Mercy helps assist women enroll in educational and rehabilitation courses, according to Sister Betty McGovern. be modeled after an existing center, Veronica’s Home of Mercy, located at 1476 W. 6th Street which helps serve women and children.

Third ward council member John Valdivia, who was not present during the initial vote, said on August 1 that the center could pose a “quality of life” issue that may make residents feel uneasy.

“I’m disappointed and disheartened that the agenda item did not get the discussion it deserved," Marquez said. "This project would have been a gift to the city.

[Mary’s Mercy] is paying for it.

The bottom line is that those opposed to it believe this is an issue not worth considering, and I disagree.”

Councilman Fred Shorett said his fellow councilmembers did a dis“While I do appreciate the good service to the community by votand hard work from staff on this ing against the project. item, this is a quality of life issue that will impact businesses and “I’m extremely disappointed,” resident,” Valdivia said during the Shorett said in a phone interview meeting on August 1. “I can’t sup- last Thursday. “I’m going to work port this. It seems completely in- hard to deal with these issues.” compatible with the priorities of Veronica’s Home of Mercy Dimy district.” rector Debra Olguin believes the Fifth ward council member proposal was struck down due to a Henry Nickel said he voted against misconception of what Mary's the center because he intends to re- Mercy Center's mission is. verse the disastrous trends of "This is not a soup kitchen," she poverty and crime. said of Veronica’s Home. "People "I think [Mary’s Mercy] is a great don't wander around here. This a program, I'm not arguing that. I'm structured transitional program arguing that the city has enough of that helps people get their lives on these programs present," Nickel track. The people who truly want explained. "We can no longer af- to change their lives will be here." ford to accommodate the large number of homeless in our county. Veronica’s Home of Mercy proIt's time for surrounding cities to vides services to women in need step up and bear the costs of the Veronica's Home of Mercy is issue." comprised of two houses that carry As of Monday, Second Ward a total of 120 beds for women and Councilman Benito Barrios, Sixth children. Tenants have access to a Ward Councilwoman Bessine Lit- play area, a chapel for prayer servtlefield-Richard and Seventh Ward ices, a cafeteria and kitchen area, Councilman Jim Mulvihill were and a computer room. Clothing donations, provided by local orunavailable for comment. ganizations and businesses, are Meanwhile, Councilwoman Vir- also available for tenants to sort ginia Marquez argued Monday through. that Mary's Village would have helped some of the 163 men (or 68 Olguin said the women are enpercent) of the homeless popula- rolled in adult school, community tion that was counted in the college, or in technical programs County’s point-in-time count in and are required to meet a curfew of 6 p.m. every day.

April.

“I want to show myself renewing my Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals application to demonstrate that not all immigrant are Latinos,” she said. “They usually don’t think black people are recipients. For some people it's rare.”

The ‘Immigrants of the IE’ photo exhibit is part of the Shutdown Adelanto Week of Action, hosted

by ICIJ, CultureStrike Magazine, and the Community Initiatives for Visiting Immigrants in Confinement (CIVIC). Demonstrations, cultural events, protests are scheduled to take place from August 1620 throughout the Inland Empire and Adelanto.

For more information, contact Luis Suarez at (909) 975-9381.

Spirits and Arts returns

Photo/Anthony VictoriA

Homeless cont. from front

Regis said she intends to take photographs that demonstrate her Haitian cultural background and milestones.

According to Olguin about 75 percent of the women involved in the program are responsive to the services provided.

"Most are grateful to be here," said Olguin. "They are happy someone is giving them the opportunity to change."

Olguin explained she understands the plight many of the women at the center experience because she spent 15 years battling substance abuse.

“I’ve been there before, so a lot of these women can relate to me,” Olguin said.

Staff member Noelle Leon, 39, says that many of the women at the home are there because they are hoping to escape the thralls of abusive relationships, drug addictions, and homelessness to improve their lives and those of their children.

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an Bernardino Generation Now once again invites residents to enjoy a night “These women learn to build of creativity and social interaction themselves up by learning how to on August 26. write resumes, learning how to be self-sufficient,” she said. “It’s im- The Spirits and Arts event is takportant for us to help them realize ing place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at that they have self-worth. This is the Garcia Center for the Arts, lovery much needed.”

Leon and her 7-year-old son Richard found themselves to be homeless after a dispute with a landlord turned sour and she lost her temporary job with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Individuals at her church directed her to Veronica’s Home, where she received guidance and support from Sister Betty McGovern.

“I’m not a prideful person, especially when it comes to my son,” Leon explained. “And I’m not ashamed of what I am doing and the message I am giving these women.”

cated at 526 W. 11th Street in San Bernardino.

This month’s featured artist is Alan Van Fleet. Residents are required to pay a fee of $15 to attend and participate. For more information, contact Miriam Nieto at (310) 817-1382.

Quote of the Week

“I am not a prideful person, especially when it comes to my son. I’m not ashamed of what I am doing and the message I am giving these women.”

--Noelle Leon on the impact Veronica’s Home of Mercy has on her life.

Gloria’s Corner

Thursday, August 11 - the John Pfau Library of the California State University San Bernardino presents Free Summer Movie Series featuring Captain America: Civil War at 8 p.m. on the South Library Lawn: 5500 University Parkway. Moviegoers are encouraged dress as their favorite superheroes and to bring blankets. Free parking is available in lots D & C. Food and refreshments will be available for sale. For information call Iwona Contreras at 909.537.3447

Gloria Macias Harrison Volunteers Needed:

The Santa Ana River Walk is scheduled for Thursday, October 6, 2016. Volunteers are needed from local, state, federal agencies, nonprofits and members of the public to participate in the 11th annual habitat survey for a native Southern California fish, the Santa Ana Sucker. Data collected during the Riverwalk provides an annual snapshot of sucker habitat within the Santa Ana River and is strictly a volunteer effort. It is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while seeing parts of the Santa Ana River most people don't normally see. Volunteers should register before September 22nd and should expect to spend approximately 5 hours on the project - from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For information about what to bring and what volunteers will be doing view the following v i d e o : http://www.youtube.com/watch?riv dLgTBck or email: onewateronewatershed@sawpa.org Theater, Concerts and Workshops:

August 12, 19 & 26 - the Revolve Project Foundation presents Down Town Summer Concert Series every Friday at Court Street Square (corner of Court Street and E Streets, San Bernardino) from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Featured are talented musical groups, food trucks, kids zone and vendors. Bring beach chairs, blankets, dancing shoes and enjoy family fun and entertainment.

Music starts at 7 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m. There is free parking at the Carousel mall parking lot and plenty of street parking. For information call Rusty Palmer 760.580.9491

Saturday, August 13 - the Children's Summer Music Festival Workshops for Children ages 4-12 from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. at the Community Center, 111 W. Lugonia Ave. Redlands. On August 6, Stars of Tomorrow in Wonderland and on August 13, Opera with Frank Fetta on how do you sing a story.

Save the Date:

Friday, August 12 - the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival presents A Portrait of Madame Butterfly featuring scenes from Puccini's beloved opera Madama Butterfly at 8:15 p.m. at the Bowl, 25 Grant Street, Redlands. The cast includes: Daria Somersault as Butterfly, Nandani Sinha as Suzuki, Brook DaRosa as Kate Pinkerton, Christian Quilici as Pinkerton, Ralph Cato as Sharpless, Haqumai Sharpe as Goro, Adrian Rosales as Yamadori, Jaime Esteban Perez as Yukuside, Jeffrey Goldberg as II Commissario, Constance Von Briesen-Kamm as II Madre, Cynthia Nitrini Stary as La Zia, and Natalia Ferreiro as La Cugina.

Featured is the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra conducted by Frank Fetta. For information on this concert or the season call 909.793.7316 or visit redlandsbowl.org

Friday, August 12 - the Revolve Project Foundation presents 2nd Downtown Summer Concert Series from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Court Street Square (corner of Court and E Streets) San Bernardino. This free event features Dunamis L1019, M.O., Chron Primatine & Good Companie. Attendees are invited to bring beach chairs, blankets and dancing shoes. Art, vendors, food and activities are part of the family entertainment. Free parking is available at the Carousel Mall parking lot. For information visit: http so://www.facebook.com/events/75 1081108327959 or call: 760.580.9491

Saturday, August 13 - Colton Community Services presents Dive-In Movies featuring Big Miracle from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Gonzales Community Center, 670 Colton Ave. This event has a $2 fee and the space is limited so came early. All movies are rated PG and participants can enjoy swimming and splashing in the pool while watching a movie. For information call: 909.370.6153

Sunday, August 14 - the Tzu Chi Foundation presents the 22nd Annual Free Community Health Clinic from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Indian Springs High School, 650 N. Del Rosa Drive, San Bernardino. This free clinic is for people without health insurance or the means to pay for medical services. Free services include: dental services; internal medicine, women's and children's medical care; eye, ear, nose and throat medical services; blood sugar and cholesterol screenings, alternative medicine and acupuncture. Medical

professionals from the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation and the local community staff the event. For information call: 909.381.1294

Tuesday, August 16 - the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival presents Kahulanui at 8:15 p.m. at the Bowl, 25 Grant Street, Redlands. Kahulanui is Hawaii's Kings of Swing combining traditional island music and the Big Band Swing. Their debit CD Hula Ku'I was nominated for a 2014 Grammy Award. For information on this concert call: 909.793.7316 or visit redlandsbowl.org

Thursday, August 18 - the John M. Pfau Library of California State University San Bernardino presents Free Summer Movie Series featuring Alice Through the Looking Glass. Screening starts at 8:00 p.m. in the South Library Lawn, 5500 University Parkway. The theme for the evening is Tea Party. Movie goers are encouraged to bring blankets; chairs are permitted in area beyond the walkways. Food and refreshments are available for purchase and free parking is in lots D & C. For information contact Iwona Contreras at 909.537.3447

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • August 11, 2016 • Page A3 E streets) San Bernardino. This free event features Zentonic, Traveling Stand Still and Hoity Toity. Concert goers are invited to bring beach chairs, blankets and dancing shoes.

Art, vendors, food and activities are part of the family entertainment.

Free parking is available at the Carousel Mall parking lot. For information call: 760.580.9491

Friday, August 19 - the San Bernardino County Museum Association presents Movies at the Museum featuring the PG rated Robots at 7:00 p.m. at the Museum's amphitheater, 2024 Orange Tree Lane, Redlands. There is a $5 fee for non-members. Attendees are urged to bring a picnic, lawn or stadium chairs and blankets and enjoy the free popcorn. For information call: 909.798.8606

Friday, August 19 - the Friends of the University of California Botanic Gardens present Summer Twilight Tour of the Botanic Gardens at 6:30 p.m. The docent-led tour lasts 90 minutes and is followed by refreshments on the patio.

The cost is $7 for Friends and $10 for non-members. There is a nominal fee for parking. For reservations call: 951.784.6962 or email ucrbg@ucr.edu Friday, August 26 - the Revolve Project Foundation presents the 4th Downtown Summer Concert Series from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Court Street Square (corner of Court and

Favorite Quote: "Leadership is practiced not so much in words as in attitude and in actions" -Paul J. Meyer

Saturday, August 27 - the Colton Veterans of Foreign Wars present To submit and event or info for the 1st Annual Taco Battle, Car Gloria's Corner please email gloShow & Concert from 3:00 to 9:00 harrison@me.com p.m. at the VFW Post #6176, 1789 N. 8th Street, Colton. For entry and

City of Highland accepting nomination papers for election through Aug. 12

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IECN Staff Report

he City of Highland is accepting nomination papers for City Council positions through August 12.

Five districts are up for election.

Council members elected in Districts 1, 3 and 5 will be elected to four-year terms, while council members elected in Districts 2 and 4 will be elected to two-year terms. As of August 3, no residents have submitted nomination papers for Districts 1 and 2.

The San Bernardino Superior Court mandated Highland to hold District-wide elections in June for violating the California Voting Rights Act of 2001.

Friday, August 19 - the Redlands Bowl Summer Festival presents The Redlands Symphony Orchestra: Symphonic Fireworks conducted by Frank Fetta at 8:15 p.m. at the Bowl, 25 Grant Street, Redlands. Featured in this conclusion concert of the 93rd season are 1812 Overture and Fireworks. The proCity Council terms gram also includes Rimsky-KorCouncil Member, District 1 sakov's Capriccio Espagnol, (Full term of four years) Stravinsky's Firebird Suite and features cellist Ruslan Biryukov performing excerpts from Lalo's Cello Concert. For information call: 909.793.7316 or visit: redlandsbowl.org Friday, August 19 - the Revolve Project Foundation presents the 3rd Downtown Summer Concert Series from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Court Street Square (corner of Court and E streets) San Bernardino. This free event features Plena Vista, Camino Pa' Tropical and Alma Tica Dance. Concert goers are invited to bring beach chairs, blankets and dancing shoes. Art, vendors, food and activities are part of the family entertainment. Free parking is available at the Carousel Mall parking lot. For information call: 760.580.9491

vendor information call: Lorrie 909.254.3878 or Delma 909.835.3474

Council Member, District (Full term of two years) Council Member, District (Full term of four years) Council Member, District (Full term of two years) Council Member, District (Full term of four years) Source: City of Highland

2

3

4 5

Boundaries Encompassing the far west side of the city is District 1. Districts 2, 3, 4 and 5 follow in succession to the east.

Each district in the City of Highland has about 10,000 people, but District 5 is the largest geographically.

For more information, contact Betty Hughes, City Clerk at (909) 864-6861 Ext. 226 or at bhughes@cityofhighland.org

OPINION&LETTERS Page A4 • August 11, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

By R.A Contreras

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I’m not paying you anymore!

he 3-mile walk to home one night didn’t do it.

Neither did losing my whole paycheck. Eating 20-cent packs of noodle soup didn’t do the trick either. But finally, something I told myself over and over worked like magic. Like scores of Americans, I was addicted to gambling.

According to Rehab International, “recent research reveals that in America, approximately 2.5 million adults suffer from compulsive gambling, about 3 million are considered problem gamblers, around 15 million adults are under the risk of becoming problem gamblers and 148 million fall under the low risk gambler category.” Furthermore, some “80 percent and above of the nation’s adults have engaged in gambling at least once in their lives”… and “more than $500 billion is spent annually on wagers.”

It used to be that one had to make considerable effort to travel to Las Vegas and other very select locations to make wagers--but no longer. Here in California, especially, a local casino may sit only minutes away. Indeed it has become so much easier to put a dollar in a machine in hopes of striking it rich.

And therein lies the problem.

I’ve gone on gambling trips where some friends are astute: for them it is no problem to set a $10 limit playing a 30-cent wager on a penny machine. If they lose (and more likely they will), they are easily able to go on their way. The small loss does not impact them seriously. Yet many others give in to what is called the chase: they might play $20 in wagers, lose, then put in another 20 in hopes of gaining back what they lost.

Quickly, however, the losses mount. What turned into a $20 deficit now becomes a hundred, perhaps much more.

I’ll never forget the time I went in and cashed a paycheck a few years ago. Most casinos will eagerly cash a paycheck for you inside the gambling lounge. (Hmm, I wonder why…) Many other amenities abound: players’ club cards, free meals, discounts on shows, points for this, points for

that, car and trip giveaways. The cards make a person feel special, like they belong to something. All of that soured fairly quickly after I walked out of the casino that day after losing $1,200 in hard-earned wages. Two weeks’ worth of sweat was gone in a matter of a few hours. That is what the chase will do to you.

There were times when I would gamble away the last $100 in my checking account. I was lucky to scrape by on those packs of noodle soups you can get at the dollar store. One night, I had gambled away every last cent and was left to make the 3-mile walk home.

Didn’t even have change left for the bus. I had no car. (Hmm, I wonder why...) That is what the chase will do to you.

Over the years, I have gambled away tens of thousands of dollars.

I have probably paid hundreds alone in bank fees at the casino.

Not only are you charged extra when you take out the money from the ATM owner, an additional charge gets tacked on from the bank. Yes, those $4 charges add up subtly--but how often, really, do we think of that?

More than once, I took friends to the casinos with me and threw them in the mix. Many times it was on their birthdays, when they would happily get a $25 courtesy credit, a small gift and perhaps a free meal. One friend recently told me angrily after losing $40 that it would be the last time he would set foot in a casino again. Good for him.

I don’t know why but what finally did it for me was a simple thought really. Weary after losing all these years, I said to myself: ‘Why am I throwing money away just to give it to someone else?’

The last time I was in a casino, a lady next to me cried tears of joy after hitting a $3,500 jackpot. I sat next to her forlorn and dejected yet again; the chase hadn’t produced. Inside, I too, cried tears-but of anger: ‘She’s taking my money!’

Really, that is all it took for me to finally realize the hand I had in helping pay these winners of various jackpots with my hard-earned money. Now, anything I see or hear relating to a casino gets automatically associated with that lady taking my bucks. Works like a charm. I think to myself: ‘Stupid me. I’m not paying you anymore.’

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.

I read the headlines in total disbelief!

A professed leader in the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement reportedly said, “I ain’t voting until Black Lives Matter“. I cannot believe that any informed, self-respecting African American will openly proclaim that he or she will not vote! This is a gross indignity because of the sacrifices and lives lost by our predecessors in order to gain the right to vote.

This misguided individual tramples on the graves of Sojourner Truth; Fannie Lou Hamer; the Mississippi Freedom Riders; Barbara Jordan, Dr. Martin Luther King, and the sacred graveyard list goes on and on.

Supporters of the “I ain’t voting” cognitive dissonance trample on the grave of my mother who was told she would lose her teaching job if she joined the NAACP and conducted a voter registration drive. She joined, became a lifetime NAACP member, and the family survived.

We survived in spite of the racists who burned our family cotton gin (3 times) and general store to the ground. Our family provided merchandise, and rides for neighbors to go to town, to register, to vote, to shop, and to conduct business.

Comradery existed whereby you picked up and provided a ride to someone walking by the side of the road.

We survived in spite of the fact that schools for Black children were closed 3 and 4 months of the school year to work in the cotton fields. We survived in spite of having to walk 10 miles to school while school buses for white children threw dust up in our faces. We survived many adversities in order to be where we are today.

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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.

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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.

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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

I WILL Vote

I WILL vote.

Black people were castigated, tortured, lynched and suffered terrible deaths for just expressing the desire to vote. It was through the power of the vote that we defeated segregationists George Wallace of Alabama, and Governors Lester Maddox and Orville Faubus of Arkansas. If one of the reported leaders of the BLM is an attorney, as reported, he should be well aware of the court battles of Attorney and Chief Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall. As an Arkansan, I watched Attorney Thurgood Marshall and local attorneys like Attorney George Howard, engage in battle on behalf of the Little Rock Nine students’ effort to get an education at Central High School. Mrs. Daisy Bates and the State Press Newspaper (distributed by my mother) espoused the power of the vote to change the segregationist structure in Arkansas.

These students (and many others) endured insults, life threats, personal danger, and loss of life to get a competitive education and learn that using the word “Ain’t” was not acceptable in the competitive corporate world. We fought for a competitive education and the right to vote in order to right the wrongs. I WILL vote!

Rhetoric is cheap. BLM threatens to give the presidency to Donald Trump. Why? I am amazed at how gullible some people are to the unfounded promises uttered by this individual. He promises jobs but he makes products abroad and sells them to consumers in America. How will providing jobs abroad “make America great”? He can begin by bringing those jobs to America, and assure that ”Made in America” is on all of his products. As a businessman, carefully scrutinize his business record and his

tax return (which he refuses to release).

He speaks of diversity but uses the terminology “my African-American“ which to me equates to the slogan, “my Nigger”, so frequently used in my youth.

Donald Trump uses negative slogans, personal insults, and exhibits totally unprofessional, crass behavior, unrepresentative of the values taught us as children. How could any selfrespecting African-American, knowledgeable of our ancestral history, threaten to vote for a self-aggrandizement individual who exhibits such unethical behavior? We should not jump from the frying pan into the fire. This is not a game of marbles between children. This is a serious world event which will impact the future of every human being on this earth, especially those of minority ethnic background.

I ask those who thought the Democratic inclusion of mothers of slain Black men was just “political theater”, what did the Republicans do to indicate the importance of this issue? How did they show the seriousness of the Black Lives Matter movement? News reports indicate “BLM Threatens to Hand Trump the Presidency”. Why? What has he done to earn it?

This is not a TV show. This is survival. I sincerely hope that self-grandiose individuals will not be successful in spewing their venom and preying on the sensibilities of the uninformed.

I WILL vote, and I urge every eligible voter to become adequately informed, VOTE, and Don’t Forget The Bridges That Brought Us Over!

Dr. Mildred Henry Your Vote Counts

E-mail us your opinions, photos, announcements to iecn1@mac.com.

Letters limited to 500 words. www.iecn.com

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • August 11, 2016 • Page A5

Words to Think About: A Little About the Life of Elsa Maxwell

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By G. W. Abersold Ph.D.

any thanks to Sarah Ramirez Bitter, my granddaughter, who did considerable research for me on the life of Elsa Maxwell.

Elsa was born in 1883 and passed away in 1963. For over 40 years she was described in Washington, D.C., as the “hostess with the

mostest.” She was the social icon of the time, entertaining the political leaders of the day, foreign dignitaries and entertainment celebrities. People would do most anything to be invited to one of her parties. To be ignored by her was social suicide.

In her own words, she was “. . . a short, fat homely piano player from Keaokuk, Iowa, with no money or background, who decided to become a legend and did just that.” She was a woman of marginal talent on the piano and an entertainer with limited skills, but a person with superb ability as a hostess. People like Maria Callas, Aristotle Onassis, Cole Porter, Noel Coward, Edgar Bergen, Tommy Dorsey, Dinah Shore, Lucille Ball, plus congressman, presidents and scores of other entertainers were honored to attend her parties and to hire her as a hostess.

Her rather pudgy figure prompted her once to say, “I have to send out a search party to find my necklace in all my chins.”

In describing her own philosophy of life she declared, “I wake up every morning wondering what wonderful things are going to happen to me.” This kind of an attitude made her what she became.

Other witty quotes attributed to her were: “Nothing spoils a good party like a genius” “Never explain and never apologize;” “No one ever went broke in Hollywood underestimating the intelligence of the public;” “Life is a party; you join after it has started and you leave before it is finished.”

In speaking of her life, she gives her father credit for establishing a series of guidelines for living. The first was, “NEVER BE AFRAID OF THEY.” The ambiguity of “they” is often used to coerce and persuade the unsuspecting. Somehow the pressure of the unknown can often lead to fearfulness and a reluctance to try new things or not face life with confidence. Never be afraid of “they.”

The second guideline was, “NEVER COLLECT THINGS; THEY’LL END UP COLLECT-

ING YOU.” To Maxwell material values were always secondary to human values. She wanted friends and people as the collateral in her life. How often “things” can be the dominate factor in our lives. When J. Paul Getty received a ransom note for his grandson with an ear, he refused to pay and gave the response. “We were never very close.” How tragic to put dollars ahead of a grandson. Don’t collect inanimate things.

A third major guideline was, “ALWAYS LAUGH AT YOURSELF FIRST, BEFORE ANYONE ELSE CAN.” Ridicule is a horrible thing to endure. To be the object of derision is also horrible, but to be laughed at leaves one without defenses. The only way to cope is to see oneself as vulnerable and subject to mistakes and then laugh. A trip, an embarrassing scene or just plain dumb behavior should illicit laughter in oneself before others can. Be the first to laugh at yourself.

Another guideline given Maxwell by her father is even

more subtle and debilitating if believed. When someone says to you, “IT’S NOT WHAT YOU SAY BUT HOW YOU SAY IT THAT IS UPSETTING.” I’m not exactly sure what he meant, but Maxwell interpreted it as an expression of a weak and insecureperson. It is usually an excuse. The lack of ability of the speaker to confront truth and logic. Whether given or received it is not a compliment but an insult.

The last guideline given to Maxwell was, “TAKE SERIOUS THINGS LIGHTLY AND LIGHT THINGS SERIOUSLY.” This is a plea for balance in one’s life. She admonishes us to lighten up on the major events and tragedies of life while at the same time paying attention to the common things that we often ignore.

These truths are truly words to live by. And they should be incorporated into the New Testament.

They sound like some of the words of Jesus.

Amen. Selah. So be it.

ence serving the local community and having previously served on the District Board of Directors (Board) in 2015. He currently serves as a liaison between the community and Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35) on issues of significance for the district.

Mr. Trujillo also worked with Congresswoman Torres when she was in the State Senate and State Assembly and served as a Public Policy Advocate for the First 5 Children and Families Commission.

“Rafael Trujillo will be a tremendous addition to the Board of Directors,” said Board President Dr. Clifford O. Young, “He brings a great energy to the Board and clearly demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that the West Valley Water District provides premier customer service and high quality water at reasonable rates.”

Board Vice President Linda Gonzalez echoed the excitement

over Mr. Trujillo’s appointment saying, “he has spent a decade and a half seeking to improve the lives of the residents of our area and truly understands their needs.

I look forward to working alongside him to serve our community.”

Rafael Trujillo was sworn in on August 1, 2016 and immediately began his term of service. As Mr. Dyer retired in the first half of his term, Mr. Trujillo will hold office until the next general district election in November 2017. At that time, he is eligible to run for the second half of the term.

WVWD serves the communities of Bloomington, Colton, Fontana, Rialto and parts of an unincorporated area in San Bernardino and a segment of the Jurupa Valley in Riverside County. Customers are encouraged to visit www.wvwd.org to learn more about ways to conserve, access rebate programs, and participate in conservation activities.

he California Arts Council awarded $7,290 to Arts Connection (AC) as part of its new Artists Activating Communities program. The City of San Bernardino Fine Arts Commission also awarded a matching grant in the amount of $8100, making the programming possible.

Artist/activist Michael Segura will lead the series of political cartooning workshops. The free workshops will engage participants in discussion around local, regional and national issues, as well as teaching fundamental cartooning techniques and materials.

Phil Yeh, other guest artists and civic groups will be brought in for additional presentations. Participants will have the opportunity to publish work through the Inland Empire Community Newspapers, a special election issue of Uncle Jam magazine and the AC website.

Artists Activating Communities

is a new pilot grant program that supports sustained artistic residencies in community settings, demonstrating the arts to be a central component of civic life, and artists to be vital in shaping society. The projects are artist-driven, engage community members as active participants, and activate participants to develop and express their own creativity.

Danielle Giudici Wallis, Arts Connection’s Interim Executive Director shared, “When Michael approached me with this idea, we had to submit it for the Artists Activating Communities Grant-- it was so timely with the 2016 Election looming, and so much fodder!”

Sessions will be held from 6 PM to 8 PM at The Garcia Center for the Arts, 536 W. 11th Street, San Bernardino, CA 92410.

For information contact Danielle Giudici Wallis at (909) 537-5809 or Danielle@artsconnectionnetwork.org

West Valley Water District Board of Directors Appoints New Member

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he Board of Directors of the West Valley Water District (District) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rafael Trujillo to the Board, filling a spot vacated by retiring Board Member Alan G. Dyer.

Mr. Trujillo brings a wealth of experience to the Board, possessing more than 15 years of experi-

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San Bernardino Political Cartooning Workshops July to November

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Page A6 • August 11, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

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Inland Empire Community Newspapers • August 11, 2016 • Page A7

‘Tools for Success Day’ helps 500 residents with school supplies

Photos/Anthony VictoriA

Top: residents waiting in line to receive information about the tools for success Day event. Bottom: Assemblywoman cheryl Brown, right, with san Bernardino city Unified school District board member Gwen Dowdy-rodgers.

Photos/Anthony VictoriA

Lisa Blackshear, a field representative with Assemblywoman cheryl Brown, displaying backpacks that were given to inland families during the ‘tools for success Day’ event on Aug. 6.

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IECN Staff Report

ssemblywoman Cheryl Brown (D-San Bernardino) hosted a community forum and backpack giveaway event at the Inland Empire Job Corps on Saturday August 6.

Approximately 500 people were able to receive notebooks, pencils, crayons, and other school supplies inside their backpacks, along with

a bag of nutrition and other foods, according to Brown’s spokesperson Ashley Jones.

“I’m very pleased with this turnout,” said Brown. “This is always an exciting time for children.

I’m glad we were able to serve the needs of our district.”

State Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Paramount), who visited San Bernardino to speak during a campaign event, was urged by Brown to stop by at

the event for a few remarks.

“This community is a lot like the one I represent,” Rendon said.

“It’s important we provide these resources to those who can benefit from them.”

Isabel Salas, who has two boys attending in the Colton Joint, said more events like these will help a lot of families in the region. “I think this was a great event,” she said. “It provides us with the help we need for our children.”

Obituary Robert Carl Hill, Jr .

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obert Carl Hill, Jr. of Highland passed away on Tuesday, August 2, 2016. He was employed by the County of San Bernardino for many years. His next career was spent at Fedco as supervisor of the maintenance crew, something he did while he worked as owner/CEO of Red-Leg Building Maintenance Company. He retired in 1999.

Robert is survived by his wife, Margaret; children, Jacqueline D. Hill, Anner Minette Hinds and Robert C. Hill, III; sisters Beverly McCabe and Linda Austin; brother Michael Austin; six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, Uncle Jimmy Jimmerson, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelius & Alma Ruth Austin; brothers John Hill, Cornelius Austin, Jr. & Darrell Austin; and granddaughter Najah Hill.

A Night of Reflection will be Friday, August 12, from 5-7 p.m. at Community Hospital of San Bernardino, Henderson Auditorium. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, August 13, beginning at 2 p.m. at the Norman Feldheym Library.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Robert Carl Hill, Jr. Diabetic Scholarship Fund, c/o Maggie’s Kids Foundation, P.O. Box 705, Patton, CA 92369-0705.

Page A8 • August 11, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

New moms get sweet treat as Redlands Community Hospital celebrates World Breastfeeding Week

COURTESY PHOTO/REDLANDS COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

New mom Michelle Graham and baby Mickayla being presented with a cookie by Becky Field, RN, as Redlands Community Hospital celebrates of World Breastfeeding Week.

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ew moms received an extra ounce of sweetness with their bundle of joy at Redlands Community Hospital last week.

Hospital staff treated its labor and delivery patients to cupcakes in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 1-7), an event designed to bring awareness to the importance and benefits of breastfeeding.

Coordinated by the World Health Organization, UNICEF and the World Alliance for Breastfeeding

Action, this year’s campaign aims to encourage people to support breastfeeding mothers along with making communities more breastfeeding-friendly.

Redlands Community Hospital has been on board and “babyfriendly” since 2013 and supports its expectant and new mothers with a breastfeeding program and access to lactation consultants.

“It is our mission and passion to help each mother that desires to exclusively breastfeed be able to successfully breastfeed their infant.

We are not only impacting this generation in a positive way but fu-

Photo courtesy/MJ Duncan

Photo courtesy/MJ Duncan

By Yazmin Alvarez

COURTESY PHOTO/REDLANDS COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

From left: Redlands Community Hospital Nurse Manager Kimberly Dobard, Kim Sanchez, RN, Edith Gonzalez, director of Maternal Child Services and Miyong Aldrich, RN. helped celebrate World Breastfeeding Week by providing new moms with sweet treats. ture generations…” said Edith Gonzales, RN, MSN, CNML, and the hospital’s director of maternal child services, in a news release. “...Breast milk is the ideal food for newborns and infants. It gives infants all the nutrients they need for healthy development. Beyond immediate benefits for children, breastfeeding contributes to a lifetime of good health. Research has shown that adolescents and adults who were breastfed as babies are less likely to be overweight or obese and less likely to have type II diabetes.”

The World Health Organization recommends that babies are exclusively breastfed for the first six

months of life, and continue for at least one year.

“Breast milk contains hormones and cells that fight germs; it helps protect infants from complications that include respiratory illness, ear infections, gastrointestinal disease, asthma, obesity and allergies. As an added bonus for mothers, breastfeeding is linked to lower rates of breast cancer and other illnesses, and aids in post-pregnancy weight loss. Nutritious complementary foods should then be added at six months of age while continuing to breastfeed for up to two years or beyond,” according to the news release.

Classes at Redlands Community

Hospital offers expectant and new mothers access to programs through its Maternal Child and Perinatal Services programs. Appointments are available for group, and individual one-on-one education.

To learn more about breastfeeding services and programs visit Redlands Community Hospital at 350 Terracina Blvd or www.redlandshospital.org.

For resources visit World Breastfeeding Week at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org or the World Health Organization at www.who.int/topics/breastfeeding/en/.

Over 1,000 students receive new backpacks, shoes courtesy Redlands Police, Micah House, community

Officer Chris Mead, event coordinator, walks around ensuring everything was in order before the event kicked off at 9 a.m.

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By MJ Duncan

n Saturday morning before the new school year over 1,000 Redlands students from Kindergarten to 12th grade patiently and eagerly waited in line to choose a brand new backpack filled with school supplies. The Redlands Police Department and Micah House, with the help of numerous local businesses and organizations, hosted the annual Back2School Jam and Community Resource Fair at Sylvan Park.

“This is always a rewarding event,” said Redlands Police Chief Mark Garcia. “This event provides the kind of support that gives our community’s youth a

These sisters took their time to carefully choose their backpack; picking one up after the other until they finally decided which one they would take home. better start in school. I am grateful for all of the City staff and community volunteers who took time out of their Saturday to make this day a success.”

An estimated 1,500 backpacks were collected, the leftover 500 will be donated to the San Bernardino Unified School District, said Lisa Salas, House Director at Micah House.

“We are able to collect such an abundance of backpacks because of the tremendous support we have from the community,” Salas said. “To see the community band together like this is truly amazing.”

The Redlands Unified School District handed out nearly 4,000

Photo courtesy/MJ Duncan

Youth eagerly waited in line in anticipation for their turn to select a backpack of their choosing in time for the new school year. Most of them bubbled with excitement with the wide selection ranging from Superman to Dory. pairs of free shoes, and event attendees were treated to free snacks, resources and entertainment.

“It’s rewarding to see the expressions on these kids’ faces,” said Officer Chris Mead, event coordinator for the second year. “Events like this offer the opportunity to foster and promote good relations between the police department and the community we serve.”

The event also provided a unique occasion for elementaryaged students to serve their community. According to Salas

Photo courtesy/MJ Duncan

On Saturday morning the Redlands Police Department and Micah House hosted the annual Back2School Jam in which 1,000 local youth received free backpacks filled with school supplies. Students were able to select a backpack of their choice. approximately two-dozen youth volunteered to stuff backpacks prior to the event and to help with various tasks on the day of. They also distributed flyers announcing the event in the city’s north side.

“There aren’t many opportunities that allow young students to volunteer in their community,” Salas said. “During this event we were able to show students that there are opportunities to serve regardless of age.

Various groups including the Redlands Police Officers Association, Trinity Church, Tom McGrath School Supplies, and grants from the Redlands Police Depart-

ment funded donations.

Other participating groups and agencies included First Lutheran Church of Redlands, 180 Degrees Food Program, City of Redlands Quality of Life Department and Human Relations Commission, IEHP, 66ers Baseball, Redlands Unified School District, Redlands Fire Department, CHP, Fuente de Vida, Automobile Club of Southern California, and Massage Envy.

“I am grateful for all of the City staff and community volunteers who took time out of their Saturday to make this day a success,” concluded Chief Garcia.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • August 11, 2016 • Page A9

Volunteers of America offers free childcare, new center and charter school opens in September

Photo courtesy/Volunteers of America

Gerald McFadden, Volunteers of America Southwest CEO and President, threw the opening pitch during the 66ers game on Wednesday, Aug. 3 to celebrate the grand opening of VOA Southwest Early Head Start and Ballington Academy.

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By MJ Duncan

ccording to the Care.com 2016 Cost of Care Survey, 54% of families spend more than 10% of their annual household income on childcare. That rate is high considering the per capita income in San Bernardino County is $29,848.

Volunteers of America (VOA) has been providing an alternative

for local families for the last 15 years through its Early Head Start program that offers free childcare for those aged 0 – 3, and a halfday preschool for 3- to 5-year olds whose parents either work or attend school.

There are currently two locations in Rialto and San Bernardino that serve 64 youth.

A new facility in San Bernardino is slated to open in September that will have the capacity to hold

104 children, as well as a brand new, tuition-free charter school – Ballington Academy for the Arts and Sciences - for those 5 and up.

“With the opening of the new facility we are able to present more opportunities for families to have free child care,” said Blanca Maldonado, VOA Family and Community Partnership Specialist. “With the new charter school on-site, children will have a seamless transition from preschool to TK (transitional kindergarten).”

The Ballington Academy is a public charter school educating students from Transitional Kindergarten through 6th grade.

Its curriculum entails Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM), using a hands-on, real world approach.

“We provide families with tools to better inspire hope, and teach them skills that will lead them to a better quality of life,” Maldonado said. “Children at our centers receive high quality care with teachers guiding educational and social development.”

Some of the family services provided include free well baby and parent home visits, parent education classes and referrals to free and low-cost community and medical resources.

Photo courtesy/Volunteers of America

Volunteers of America offer free childcare and half-day preschool at two locations in San Bernardino and Rialto. A larger facility is scheduled to open in September in San Bernardino that will also include a tuition-free public charter school on site – Ballington Academy. Pictured is Ana Hernandez with her daughter Isabella during half-day preschool.

The Early Head Start program provides Early Child Development and Health Services such as education, child health and

safety, child nutrition and services to children with disabilities.

For more information on VOA, please call (909) 888-4577.

Boys and Girls Club, Kiwanis clubs treat students to back-to-school shopping spree at Kohl’s cial opportunity to families in the San Bernardino area,” he said.

“Education is so important, and what better way to get the students comfortable as they start the new school year,” he said.

The event also provided an opportunity for Kiwanis club members to interact with the population they are helping.

“Our focus is on youth and this event allows us to engage with them and get to know them a little,” said Kiwanis Club of San

Photo courtesy/MJ Duncan

This is the first year the Kiwanis Club of San Bernardino participated in the event. 20 kids were invited to the shopping spree from the San Bernardino Boys and Girls Club Waterman Gardens location. Pictured is Bella Leavitt, 9, finishing up her shopping excursion with SB Kiwanis member Donna Ferracone.

I

By MJ Duncan

n an effort to eliminate the financial burden going back to school poses for some local families, the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Redlands-Riverside in partnership with the Redlands and San Bernardino Kiwanis Clubs, took 75 students on a shopping spree at Kohl’s Saturday morning.

Each child was paired with a Kiwanis club volunteer who meandered the aisles of the department store with a $100 budget to purchase clothing and shoes. A backpack filled with basic school necessities was also distributed to each participant.

Each student posed with their volunteer after checking out, beaming radiant smiles and

clutching their bag full of purchases, eager to show off their newly procured items to anyone who was curious.

“We are so thankful for our partners – Kohl’s and Kiwanis – for helping out this year’s shopping spree,” said BGC Chief Executive Officer P.T. McEwen. “This provides a good start to the school year and the new purchases contribute to the students’ self confidence and self-esteem.”

This is the first year Kiwanis Club of San Bernardino participated in the event; they brought 20 kids from the Boys and Girls Club Waterman Gardens site. According to Kiwanis Vice President and BGC Development Director Eddie Hernandez, it was an opportunity to seize.

“We wanted to extend this spe-

Photo courtesy/MJ Duncan

On Saturday morning the Boys and Girls Club Greater Redlands-Riverside and Kiwanis Clubs of Redlands and San Bernardino treated 75 students to a shopping spree at Kohl’s in Redlands. Each participant had a budget of $100 to purchase back-to-school clothing and shoes. A Kiwanis member was paired with a student. Pictured are Linda Anderson and Mia Campos, 7.

Bernardino member Donna Ferracone. “This is also a way for us to have some fun together.”

For more information on the Boys and Girls Club Greater Redlands-Riverside, call (888) 8226536, and for the Boys and Girls Club of San Bernardino (909) 888-6751.

Photo courtesy/MJ Duncan

Each participant was given a backpack filled with essential school supplies. Boys and Girls Club Development Director Joy Juedes was on-hand to hand to pass them out as they finished up their shopping spree.

Page A10 • August 11, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Cristen Pedroza to walk-on with intensity at Cal State San Bernardino

Photo Courtesy/Hubbs Foundation

Cristen Pedroza will try to make Cal State San Bernardino's softball and soccer team as a walk-on.

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By Harvey M. Kahn

risten Pedroza will tell you she was not offered a college scholarship after graduating in June from San Gorgonio High School. Pedroza was good enough to make All-San Andreas League 2nd

Team in soccer and softball and had a 3.17 GPA. She received a few inquiries about her availability from Cal State Sacramento, Cal State East Monterey Bay and could have played softball at San Bernardino Valley College.

Pedroza's coaches say that her

strengths as an athlete cannot be measured by looking at her stat sheets. As a catcher, there are no stats for blocking pitches in the dirt, picking runners off base, and organizing team meetings.

Likewise as San Gorgonio's goalie, there is no entry for point blank saves and setting the defense. San G's softball coach Ray Ditto says you have to come out and scout Pedroza in person to appreciate her qualities. Ditto explained that most softball players earn college scholarships by playing travel ball. Pedroza never did much of that.

"Cristen uses her brain to play. She calls the whole game, pitch selection, pick off plays, and sets the defense," said Ditto, who said Pedroza was his catcher four years, including playing every inning of every game as a junior and senior.

"She played hurt many times but knew the team needed her." Pedroza's leadership qualities became apparent in her sophomore year when she was selected the trusted treasurer of the San G Softball Club.

In Pedroza's resume presented to the Ken Hubbs Foundation by San G. Athletic Director Matt Maeda, he wrote that his school did not have someone who could play goalie on the soccer team. Since Pedroza was an excellent catcher, Maeda thought those skills might translate into a goalie. "She played JV as a sophomore and began learning the position until she became varsity starting goalie as a junior."

Maeda went on to tell of Pedroza's miraculous story whereby she became so good that she helped lead the Spartans to consecutive San Andreas League soccer championships.

During those two league title winning seasons, Pedroza allowed a total of nine goals, while San G went 10-0 in backto-back seasons. By a wide margin, Pedroza allowed the least

Photo Courtesy/Cristen Pedroza

Cristen Pedroza was San Gorgonio HS catcher four years and was goalie on two San G. league championship soccer teams.

Pedroza was named school's Ken Hubbs Award nominee. goals in the SAL both seasons but was voted only honorable mention and then 2nd team allleague. It did not help that her stats were never posted on Maxpreps.

Pedroza simply said, "Oh. They decided to pick the other girl 1st team all-league."

She explained that walking onto San G's varsity has prepared her for a similar experience she's preparing for at Cal State San Bernardino, where she will attempt to walk-on as a non scholarship softball and soccer player. "I had to learn quickly in

high school. My older teammates didn't want any excuses.

They expected a lot. They'd tell me. 'You better get the hang of it.'"

Ditto feels that once the coaches at Cal State actually see Pedroza on the playing fields, that the rest will fall neatly into place. "They can't miss her intensity and the really good tools she has as a catcher. She is a coach on the field. There is still a lot of softball in her." Pedroza will major in biology in pursuit of becoming a ultra-sound technician

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • August 11, 2016 • Page A11

Residents weigh in on state propositions

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PHOTO/ANTHONY VICTORIA

Proposition 64 may legalize marijuana and hemp for certain sales and cultivation across California.

By Anthony Victoria

alifornia residents will be voting on 18 propositions in the November 2016 election. Among the issues are marijuana legalization, repealing the death penalty, taxation, and education.

Proposition 51, known as the Public Education Facilities Bond Initiative, will authorize the state to issue $9 billion in bonds to im-

prove and construct K-12 and community college campuses.

Three billion dollars will be allocated to modernizing school facilities, while another $3 billion will ensure the construction of new campuses. Charter schools and vocational institutions will be given $1 billion; community colleges are to receive $2 billion.

Colton Joint Unified School District Superintendent Jerry Almendarez said he believes the

proposition will help struggling districts. “It’s an important proposition because many school districts are facing tough times,” he explained. “Facilities are typically the ones that get ignored the most.”

Meanwhile Gina Rodriguez of Riverside is concerned private corporations may have had a large influence on the drafting of the proposition. “I am still on the fence about it. Will this lead to pri-

vatization for schools and will the funds be distributed to where they are needed most?”

Proposition 55 will extend the temporary tax that was imposed on residents in 2012 who earn more than $250,000 to 12 years. Money generated from the tax will go towards funding education and health care in the state.

California’s Death Penalty, which was reinstated through Proposition 17 in 1972, has two propositions that may either speed up the process of execution or repeal capital punishment altogether in the state. Proposition 62, the Death Penalty Repeal initiative, would abolish capital punishment-making a life sentence without parole the maximum sentence for murder offenses.

“I am absolutely in support of this,” said Fontana resident Bobbi Jo Chavarria, who has helped circulate positions for Proposition 62.

“We join the ranks of countries like Saudi Arabia when it comes to capital punishment. It’s very inhumane, and most importantly, it has disproportionate impacts on impoverished communities of color.”

In contrast, Proposition 66, the Death Penalty Reform and Savings Initiative, would change the process in which governing appeals and petitions challenging capital punishment are handled. It designates superior courts across the state to handle the petitions, limits the amount of successive petitions filed, requires attorneys to take both noncapital and death

penalty appeals.

San Bernardino resident James Albert believes more people need to educate themselves on Proposition 66. “People need to know that the proposition that gains the most support trumps the other one. This is simply a competing initiative to throw off voters. This is a moral issue to me. The state should not have the power to take a human life.”

Proposition 64, which intends to legalize marijuana and hemp for certain sales and cultivation, will mandate the state to license and regulate the industry. According to the official ballot summary, the proposition will impose a tax on retail sales and cultivation of marijuana, while exempting some medical marijuana from taxation.

In addition, it will allow local regulation and taxation of the plant.

Fontana resident Joe Hemp, who, for safety reasons, did not provide his real name, said the proposition will hurt patients protected under the Medical Use of Marijuana Initiative (Proposition 215) and give most authority to state officials and private corporations.

“This has the potential of destroying Proposition 215 and the mom and pop stores that are beginning to flourish,” he said. “Last thing we need to do is sell out.”

To see more in-depth coverage on the ballot propositions, see the state’s Official Voter Information Guide. Election Day is on November 8.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • August 11, 2016 • Page A15

Page A16 • August 11, 2016 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers