Inland Empire Weekly November 19 2015

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

Vol 11, NO. 13

I.E. pullers plan to take arm-wrestling over the top

THIS WEEK Gloria’s Corner & Words To Think About

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November 19, 2015

Historic Tour of Mt.View Cemetery Nov. 21

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Santa Paws is Coming to Town!

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Salvation Army Holiday Food Drive

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

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Arm-wrestlers Jaime “The Natural” Sheldon of Riverside (left) and Scott “The Ambassador” Warren of Chino (right), hope to make arm-wrestling a mainstream sport in the area.

“The Natural” Sheldon — and an And while Sheldon and fellow index finger has enough strength “pullers” Scott “The Ambassador” Warren, Leo Landeros and Kevin t only takes 12 pounds of to do it.

The secret is knowing how to pressure to snap the arm I.E. Pullers, cont. on next pg. bone, says arm wrestler Jaime harness that power.

By Yazmin Alvarez

Fundraiser opens doors to Burrage Mansion in Redlands

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INSIDE ONE SECTION, 16 PAGES

Calendar Classifieds Legal Notices Opinion Service Dir. Sports

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

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IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

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COURTESY PHOTO/ANNAMAE HOLZHAUSER

Guests were invited to tour the Burrage Mansion in Redlands Nov. 15 as part of a fundraising event for Mansion Memories, a local nonprofit.

By Yazmin Alvarez

ucked in the hills of Redlands sits the Burrage Mansion —the house of 1,000 steps — and for the first

time, the historical home was open for tours to the public in hopes of creating memories.

The event, which was held as a fundraiser for the local nonprofit, Mansion Memories, brought more

than 100 guests to visit the Burrage Nov. 15, and for many, it was the first time stepping foot on the grounds.

Memories, cont. on next pg.

he San Bernardino Historical and Pioneer Society in conjunction with Mt. View Mortuary and Cemetery will be sponsoring the second annual Historic Tour of Mt. View Cemetery.

Featured as part of the tour last year were stories of some of the valley’s colorful past and heritage, including stops at the final resting place Earp Family, specifically James C. Earp, brother of legendary frontier lawman, Wyatt Earp. To bring his story to life, a group of reenactors from Tombstone Legends took on the roles of gunslingers Virgil, Wyatt and Morgan Earp, Doc Holliday, along with the Clantons and McLouries, the cowboys of Tombstone.

A $15 donation per person and $20 per couple is being asked to attend the tour.

All donations will contribute as a fundraiser for the Historical Society.

While it’s not mandatory, guests are invited to dress in "1880's through 1920’s" attire.

Two trams will accommodate most of the attendees to tour the grounds. The group will meet at 2 p.m. the entrance of Mt. View, at 570 E. Highland Ave. in San Bernardino.

For ticket reservation or information, call 909-709-3792.

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 • November 19, 2015 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers • Inland Empire Weekly I.E. Pullers, cont. from front

Polacek don't plan to break any bones, they're serious about their goal: "building an arm-wrestling powerhouse in the Inland Empire."

“Ultimately the aim is to breed a community of pullers and have the sport take off —everywhere,” said Warren, 26 of Chino, who’s the state director for the World Armwrestling League.

The league, which is based in Chicago, is the largest, fastest growing professional armwrestling league in the world. WAL is “dedicated to introducing the sport to new arm-wrestlers and encouraging participation at every level,” according to the organization’s official website, www.walunderground.com.

Locally, 29-year-old Landeros, holds several practice matches at I.E. Barbell, a powerlifting gym in Redlands, for anyone that’s interested in becoming involved, while Sheldon holds training workshops at Nutrishop Riverside at Tyler for novices, amateurs and anyone ready to grip up and pull.

Sheldon, who is ranked 4th in the nation and in Canada, got involved in the sport as a child “armwrestling with his buddies,” he

plaining that it takes heart, some pain and intense training to be successful in the sport.

“There’s always room to learn and you’ll never be as good as you want to be,” he said. “But we want to teach success.”

Those lessons are available almost any day.

Just contact Warren at scott_chf@yahoo.com or 909-2239738 to find a nearby opportunity, he said, or contact Sheldon at Nutrishop Riverside at Tyler on Faceb o o k , www.facebook.com/nutrishopriversidetyler.

Those more interested in watching can get a taste on ESPN2, where arm wrestling got more than 300,000 viewers when it debuted last year.

Or fans can watch in person as information on qualifiers are posted on the WAL website, including a IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ countdown to the Dec. 12 event, From left: I.E. arm-wrestlers Leo Landeros, 29, of Redlands, Kevin Polacek, 31, of Rancho Cuca- when WAL hosts the State Chammonga, Jaime “The Natural” Sheldon, 34, of Riverside and Scott “The Ambassador” Warren, 26, of pionships at Hooters in Bakersfield, CA, 4208 Rosedale Hwy #100. All Chino. are welcome, Warren said.

The group is looking to grow the sport throughout the Inland region.

said. comers.”

“I’ve been involved for 11 years,” Warren dedicates his time to prohe said. “Now I help everyone else moting the sport through qualifiers who is coming into the sport in and Southern California, the up-and- Polacek, 31, is busy grooming

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Scott “The Ambassador” Warren, state director of the World ArmWrestling League, and fellow puller Kevin Polacek of Rancho Cucamonga.

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Mary Acosta, former nun and resident of the Burrage Mansion, shared stories of her time at the historic home when it served as a convent. The Burrage is now used for fundraising events in support of nonprofit organizations.

pullers in Rancho Cucamonga and surrounding communities.

Yazmin Alvarez is a reporter “Everybody can arm-wrestle and with Inland Empire Community anyone can compete, but not every- Newspapers and can be reached one can succeed,” Warren said, ex- at iecn.yazmin@gmail.com.

IECN PHOTO/YAZMIN ALVAREZ

Scott “The Ambassador” Warren and Leo Landeros of Redlands grip up at Nutrishop Riverside at Tyler for a practice match.

Memories, cont. from front

“There’s just so much history here,” said Dianna Lawson, executive director of Mansion Memories.

Attendees of the event were led through tours of the mansion for an upclose look at historic photos and artifacts and were given access to some never-before-seen rooms of the home.

To share some of the stories behind the Burrage, special guest and former resident Mary Acosta, was on hand to bring the history of the home to life.

Acosta told stories about her stay at the Burrage and her time in Redlands.

She served as a nun with the Sisters of the Order of Missionary Catechists of Our Blessed Lady of Victory when the home was used as a convent. Her role was to teach area educators about religion in the classroom, she said, in addition to tending to the orange groves on site.

But her fondest memory, she said, was simply living with 16 other people.

“We all had different stories but we're all here to serve the same purpose,” she said. “We became really

good friends —a family here.”

Acosta said she hopes those who visit the mansion on any occasion also develop fond memories.

“It’s a very special place.”

With the same sentiments, Lawson agreed and explained that it was that very reason why the fundraising event was created, “to make memories and share experiences.”

Among other highlights of the event included a silent auction, samplings of foods and desserts from Brewcakes, Brew Rebellion, Alfaro Catering Services, Dream Dinners, Rok-n-Fondue, American Road Trip Bar and Grill, Escape Craft Brewery, State Street Deli & Cafe ,Napoli Italian Restaurant, Oscar’s Mexican Restaurant, and Wiens Family Cellars.

Sunday’s event was made possible through a partnership with the Rochford Foundation.

Proceeds from the event will help fund Mansion Memories activities planned throughout the year.

To learn more about the organization and its events, visit www.mansionmemories.org. ~ iecn.yazmin@gmail.com.

Gloria’s Corner

Gloria Macias Harrison

Arts Center Dedication: What a joyous community gathering it was for the dedication of the restored and refurbished historical building on the corner of 11th and E Street in San Bernardino.

This historical property was dedicated and renamed for two visionaries -Drs. Ernest and Dottie Garcia- who provided leadership for the project. It is now officially the San Bernardino Garcia Center for the Arts. During the program, Dr. Ernie Garcia recognized the members of the San Bernardino Valley Concert Association Board of Directors that spearheaded the project and the elected officials who have contributed to the project. Among the many volunteers were students from the Job Corps, the San Bernardino City School District and local colleges and universities.

Also volunteers came from service clubs and residents who had fond

memories of attending programs offered by some of agencies that were at one time housed in the building. This volunteer community effort of restoring the 1935 Adobe constructed gem to its original beauty and up to modern standards is an example of what can happen when people come together to work in a positive manner to rebuild their city. With the opening of the new Center, nonprofit arts organizations are offered a location from which they can operate at a minimal cost. The Center will offer rehearsal space for dancers and musicians, a performance venue for theatre and poetry, classrooms for ceramics, painting and glass blowing and plenty of wall space for exhibits.

There is still much more work to be done and although there have been some generous contributions more is still needed. For information on how you can help, call: 909.862.3668

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • November 19, 2015 • Page A3 to these young artists for their thought and creativity and to their teachers who took the time to work with their students on this project. Also a hearty thank you to the judges which included Renee Azenaro, Professor of Art, University of Redlands; Rebecca Trawick, Director/Curator, Wignall Art Museum, Ontario; and Danielle Guidici Wallis, Executive Director, San Bernardino County Arts Connection.

Save the Date:

Friday, November 20 - a Friday Night Cruise & Food Drive at 865 N. Rancho, Colton, CA is being sponsored by El Aguila Restaurant and various community groups to collect funds to help families in need this holiday season. The event, scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m., will feature turkey giveaways, gift cards, and trophies for cars from the 30/40's, 50's, 60's, 70's, and 80's along with Best of Show. DJ Abel will provide entertainment.

Saturday, November 21 - Relay For Life Kickoff Party from 6pm to 10pm at American Legion Post 155, 1401 Veteran’s Way, Colton.

Come learn about Relay For Life, register a team or participant, meet other Relayers and have fun! For information contact Randy Rivera, Event Lead at rnjrivera@sbcglobal.net or Renee Student Art Show Winners: Villa, People Lead, at reAs part of the Grand Opening of neemr24@hotmail.com. the San Bernardino Garcia Center for the Arts, students from the city Saturday, November 21 - the public school system were encour- Ladies Auxiliary of the American aged to submit their entries on the Legion Post 777 presents Holiday theme, "What I Like About San Boutique from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bernardino.” Submissions were in 194 E. 40th Street in San different mediums. Winners in the Bernardino. This event features art exhibit were: Jessie Andrade, handmade items, jewelry, baked Pacific High School, Ceramic goods, decorations candles and Sculpture, "Santa Fe Depot" - more. For information call teacher Megan Moore; Samuel 909.882.3112 or 909.763.0811.

Orozco, Golden Valley Middle School, CAPS Program, "My Saturday, November 21 - the Neighborhood" - teacher Ernesto San Bernardino Historical & PioAmada; Carlos Jesus Rivera III, neer Society and Mt. View MortuRodriguez Prep Academy, "Route ary and Cemetery present Where 66" - teacher Sara Klingonsmith; the Past Meets the Present from and Shae Arroyo Torres, Shandin 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Participants are Hills Middle School, Sculpture, encouraged to wear costumes from "Eagle of Lake Gregory" - teacher the pioneer time to the 1920's. ReLea Mahakian. Congratulations freshments and snacks from the

era will be served. Featured will be a reenactment of the valley's colorful past and heritage along with a guided tour honoring some of the resting residents who helped develop the area. Some family descendants will give personal views of their loved ones. For ticket and information call 909.709.3792 or email Nick Cataldo at yankeenut15@gmail.com

Saturday, November 21- the League of Women Voters of the San Bernardino Area presents a forum on Money in Politics at 1:15 p.m. at the Feldheym Library, 555 W. 6th Street, San Bernardino. For information call Jill VassilakosLong at 909.649.1310 or email jvlong@csusb.edu

Saturday, November 21 - the Inland Empire Chapter of Childhelp presents the Fifteenth Annual Forest of Hope - "A Christmas Dream of Dance" Luncheon & Tree Presentation starting at 11:00 a.m. at the National Orange Show Valencia Room, 689 S. E Street, San Bernardino. Proceeds from this event go to the treatment and prevention of Child Abuse. To RSVP contact Helga Kray at 909.200.9463.

Sunday, November 22 - $7 Tamale Combo Platter Fundraiser for Relay For Life at 2pm, 2618 Etiwanda Ave., San Bernardino.

For information contact Renee (909) 746-1526 or Regina (909) 678-2234.

will hold the 2015 Community Thanksgiving Service at 7 p.m. at Congregation Emanu El, 1495 Ford Street, Redlands. Attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food to donate. The food bank of Saint John’s Episcopal Church in San Bernardino will distribute all donated food and money collected during the offering will go to Central City Lutheran Mission.

Friday, December 4 - Friends of Santa Claus, Inc. present “Twas the Night Before Christmas” Evening Gala at the Orange Pavilion - National Orange Show Event Center, 690 South Arrowhead, San Bernardino. The event starts with a Cocktail Reception and Tree Preview at 6 p.m. followed by a Dinner Extravaganza at 7 p.m. This Black Tie event features Holiday Specialty Boutiques, Silent Auction Gift Baskets, live Auction and Dancing to a live band. For ticket information call: 909.862.0732 or email: bsimenton@att.net

Saturday, December 5 - Friends of Santa Claus, Inc. present “Twas the Night Before Christmas” Luncheon & Fashion Show at the Orange Pavilion - National Orange Event Center, 690 South Arrowhead Ave. San Bernardino. The event starts with Tree Preview & Shopping at 10 a.m. followed by Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. This Holiday Attire event features Holiday Specialty Boutiques, Silent Auction Gift Baskets, Live Auction, Macy's Holiday Fashion Show and Designer Tree Raffle. For ticket information call: 909.862.0732 or email: bsimenton@att.net

Monday, November 23, 2015 February 13, 2016 the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art (RAFFMA) presents three solo landscape photo exhibitions featuring Lewis deSoto: Empire, Sant Khalsa: Intimate Land- Favorite Quote: scapes: and Tom Portlock Honor the sacred.

C.ASH_4_Gold. The Portlock Honor the Earth, our mother. photo work is about the visual im- Honor the Elders. pact of the economic crisis on the Honor all with whom we share San Bernardino area. An opening the earth: reception will be held at the Four-legged, two-legged, winged RAFFMA art museum on the cam- ones, swimmers, crawlers, plant pus of Cal State San Bernardino and rock people. on Saturday, November 21 from 5 Walk in balance and beauty.

-Native American Elder - 7 p.m.

Tuesday, November 24 - the San Bernardino Clergy Association

Words to Think About: A Thanksgiving Message

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By G. W. Abersold Ph.D.

hanksgiving Day, November 26, 2015 is in many respects the National Holiday of the United States. We worship it with adoration and reverence.

It is the essence of our religion.

Our icons are the turkey and football-both college and the NFL. We eat the turkey and all of its trimmings. Then we collapse in our pews (the couch or easy chair) and argue the subtle points of football.

The spirit of Thanksgiving was not always so pagan. The three great monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Mohamedism, all have their special days of worship. Christmas and Easter; Hanukah, and Yom Kippur; Ramadan. Interesting enough, thanksgiving-in its purest form is the basic expression of devotion of all three. Read the book of Psalms, which all three religions accept. Thanksgiving to God is the theme of most of the Psalms.

So, it was quite natural for the Pilgrims to celebrate with thanksgiving to God on December, 1621, for His blessings. They had survived their first winter and harvest.

However, where and when the first Thanksgiving was held in the United States is open for debate.

St. Augustine, Florida declares it was on September 8, 1565 in their

city.

Many historians say it was in Virginia and not in Plymouth. As early as 1607. It is recorded in the founding charter in Charles City, Virginia that a day of Thanksgiving was held in 1619. However, December of 1621 is generally accepted as the time of the first day of Thanksgiving in the U.S.A. In 1789 George Washington proclaimed a national Day of Thanksgiving on November 26. Abraham Lincoln did the same for the last Thursday of November in 1863.

In 1939 President F. D. Roosevelt proclaimed a national day on the fourth Thursday of November. Every President since then has followed this tradition.

Ben Johnson, the great English essayist, is reported as saying, “Gratitude is seldom found among most people.” Seemingly, the more independent we become and the more self-sufficient we become, the less likely we are to acknowledge a spirit of gratitude.

Which always precedes thanksgiving.

As great as Mark Twain became,

he was the exception. At the top of his popularity, he was paid between three and five dollars for each word he wrote. A fan wrote him a letter requesting his (Twain’s) favorite word. He included a five dollar bill. In his most inimitable way, Twain sent back one word-THANKS. Remember the story of Robert Stroud, the Birdman of Alcatraz?

He was a vicious, resentful, morose killer. He spent fifty of his seventy years incarcerated in prison.

However, he became a wellknown author and rehabilitated his life. He became an authority on birds. Especially what caused their sickness and death. Reportedly, his change began when a sparrow flew into his cell and was ill. He cared for it and it became well. He then did something unusual for him. He asked a guard for help.

The jailor was at first resentful but then relented and gave him a small box that Stroud had asked for. Then came his response, “Thanks.” The first expression of gratitude.

Ultimately gratitude is a spiritual expression. Most Christians are aware of the word “Eucharist.” It is the word used for the Sacrament of Holy Communion and The Lord’s Supper. Its meaning in Greek is “Thanksgiving.” The celebration of the Holy Eucharist was the first Sacrament of the Christian faith.

Karl Barth, the great Swiss theologian of the last century, said it this way, “Gratitude is the only appropriate response any of us can make to God.” Helen Keller said, “I never feel so alive as when I take time to say, “Thank you.”

Dale Carnegie stated that, “Gratitude should be expressed but not expected. Thankfulness is a key. It unlocks so many things that were closed, from frozen relationships to harden hearts.”

However you spend Thanksgiving Day, I urge you to include time to express gratitude to God. Amen. Selah. So be it.

OPINION&LETTERS Page A4 • November 19, 2015 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

By Anthony Victoria

Prayers not just for Paris, but also for humanity as a whole

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et me be clear in expressing my condolences to the family of the 128 people that lost their lives during the bombings of Paris, France on November 14. The loss of human life should be tragic for all of us and not be taken lightly.

With that being said, it is important that in this time of mourning, confusion, and anger we reflect on the critical issue that is terrorism.

The last thing we need is for a plethora of politicians and media pundits telling us to be fearful.

We should not be easily convinced when the former group expresses that another War on Terror would eliminate Islamic terrorism. It's better to reject this notion because quite frankly, terminating the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) may lead to the creation of similar groups. It will be vital for our leaders to act with tact as they yet again approach another international debate.

The current crisis can be traced back decades ago when the United States decided to meddle with foreign affairs in the Middle East for the purpose of quelling the Soviet threat in Afghanistan.

The Central Intelligence Agency

was instrumental in providing financial and military assistance to freedom fighters resisting communist rule. Among those were mujahideen fighters, who were radical Islamists that justified violence with religion. One of the ramifications was the formation of Al-Qaeda and the attacks of September 11, 2001. Subsequently, we embarked on a campaign to fight against terror, which evidently led to military campaigns in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Soon after the 2003 invasion of the latter country, Jordanian Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and his militant group Jama'at alTawhid wal-Jihad gained notoriety for suicide attacks on Shia Islamic mosques, civilians, and government institutions partaking in the US-led 'Multinational Force'.

That's not to say that the U.S. is to blame for the ongoing debacle.

But clearly the mishandling of foreign affairs has caused a violent vacuum to affect the world negatively. Western governments have failed to understand the complexity and nature of crises taking place around the world.

Instead, they have succeeded in portraying Islam as a disgrace to “ progressive” civilizations. They have alienated and marginalized many Muslims, and therefore have unsuccessfully responded to their requests. In a sense, it is now creating two-tier societies, where people of Middle Eastern descent live with stigmatization and discrimination.

There is no easy answer to the growing threat of ISIS. While many believe the U.S., France, and their allies should strike with military force, others believe that another conflict will result in bigger losses for all: poverty, unemployment, Islamophobia, racism, food insecurity, religious void, social chaos, injustices, occupations and wars.

As the Dalai Lama said, “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.”

The one thing we can control here at home is the manner in which we respond to the situation. Nothing will be solved if we act in hatred towards Muslims.

Remember, hate breeds hate.

Let’s act with love, compassion and acceptance, in order to move towards peace.

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.

Our deserts are being threatened by industrialization

Americans from all over the world have long been drawn to the stark beauty of the California desert. It is in these trails where people can come and see the beauty of the unique Californian wilderness. These mountains and deserts in the proposed areas are my home. These lands feature some of the most spectacular scenery in the nation, which drives the tourism and recreation that are so essential to our local economy.

Visitors can hike, camp, fish and much more on these amazing

Some want even more gun laws on the books. For openers, as far as I know, it's a serious felony in every state in the union to aim and shoot a gun toward another person who is no threat to you and is simply going about their daily business.

Others insist on more gun free zones. Gun free zones are great for people who are crazy or evil and want to shoot at others who can't defend themselves by shooting back.

Usually proposals focus on (1) the instruments (guns) or (2) a sub-set of people (mentally ill).

Restrict gun sales or ownership or more closely monitor/supervise the mentally ill they insist.

Such proposals are myopic and miss the larger issue.

I'm reminded of the patient with a sore throat and a cough who insists on an antibiotic. An exam might require telling the patient his symptoms are from something more serious-perhaps cancer.

Short-term biologicals may provide temporary relief but the long term problem remains.

I'm not at all opposed to incremental approaches, e.g., more laws or closer scrutiny of those who purchase or own guns. Training potential victims in intelligent defensive behaviors for selfpreservation (like we do earth-

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Gloria Macías Harrison Bill Harrison Co-Publisher 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

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Established 1969.

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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 Castaneda 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 E Circulation nterprises fore qualified to publish legal notices.

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lands. My friends and I always drive into these areas to hike up the trails and camp in the wilderness. We also like to take youth from San Bernardino who lack the access into the mountains and desert and show them the importance of being in these spaces.

Unfortunately the desert we all love is being threatened by industrialization. We need to act quickly to protect our recreation opportunities. Current proposals to designate desert lands in Mojave Trails, Sand to Snow, and Castle Moun-

tain National Monuments would forever protect these landscapes and ensure they remain accessible for the public. I support Sen. Feinstein in her call to President Obama to permanently protect these impressive desert areas as national monuments. I urge Congressman Pete Aguilar to support the call to protect these lands through the use of the Antiquities Act. Sincerely, Jason Martinez San Bernardino

How much do we value living beings aside from our own life

IECNInland Empire Community Newspapers

Publisher

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

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

quake drills) as well as professional law enforcement being available as quickly as possible in a mass shooting scenario are excellent short term measures, but I suggest we enlarge our lens and ask broader, deeper questions about the problem of mass shootings.

Laws are written for law abiding people. Social deviants and criminals will buy, sell, and use guns illegally in spite of written laws.

Approximately 1% of Americans (3 million) may have a serious mental condition which may warrant medical intervention, and only a small fraction of that one percent manifest attendant violent behaviors.

A broader and more relevant question is: As a society what value do we place on human life and how do we manifest that concern?

We are the greatest military power on earth and spend more on war materials than all other military powers combined.

Over a decade ago we went to war against a country that had no weapons of mass destruction and posed no threat to us. Our opening salvo was a massive bombing execution we called "shock and awe". Our President then went on national television and advised our citizens to "go shopping".

Later on, that same President decided we should not witness the returning remains of our fallen warriors, sparing us a reality of war.

What is the mantra behind any commercially successful news organization in America on the 5 or 11 o'clock news?--If it bleeds, it leads.

The biggest entertainment event in our culture is "The Super Bowl", the sport where gladiatortypes smash and pound into each other which turns an untold number of them into brain-injured warriors (concussions).

We prepare and train many of our youth in that pursuit even before they get to college. And when they get to college-we pay the coach in charge of those warriors millions of dollars a year but pay

a college president a fraction of that.

We believe other cultures are cruel and inhumane for sticking barbs and swords into helpless bulls and yet our sport and preference is to watch two men enter a ring and literally knock their kidneys and brains out.

And as you' re reading this is one of your kids enjoying blowing into oblivion little humanoid figurines on a TV monitor?

In Nevada, known for it's gambling and family entertainment centers, not far from those facilities a small number of our soldiers sit before TV. screens, monitoring people 10,000 miles away, who can push a button that causes an unmanned flying object to shoot a missile below and obliterate human life. And our soldiers are spared the screams and the flying blood and are able to drive home that evening to enjoy time with their families.

The nightly news suggest that more than a few of us have no aversion to indulging in risky confrontational, possibly violent behavior with strangers whether its over road rage or provoking fans from an opposing sports team.

How much do we value living beings aside from our own life or those we love? And how do some of us develop the notion that the extinction of human life depends on our acting on a whim to resolve our personal frustrations in life?

Maybe it's time to turn to others besides politicians for analysis and possible solutions.

How about we turn to poets and philosophers? But most of us are more pragmatic than that. How about Behavioral Anthropologists and Social Psychiatrists? What do we have to lose?

Bob Morales San Bernardino

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • November 19, 2015 • Page A9

Inland Empire: Holiday meals offered for residents in need Thanksgiving Food Baskets Bloomington

The Bridge Church of the Nazarene

9904 Bloomington Ave., Bloomington Baskets available for residents from Colton to Fontana Call for event time and date.

Information: - 909-877-0769 Rialto

4th Annual Veterans Turkey Giveaway — Nov. 21

Greater Faith Grace Bible Church 249 E. Randall Ave., Rialto 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Open to first 150 registrants while supplies last.

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COURTESY PHOTO/PROJECT BOON

Several organizations will help make the holidays brighter by offering residents in need a free holiday meal this Thanksgiving.

By Yazmin Alvarez

he holidays can be a difficult time for residents in the Inland Empire, but several organizations are making efforts to help make the holidays brighter for families or individuals

Rialto

in need during the week of Thanksgiving.

Nonprofits and faith-based groups throughout San Bernardino County are offering free Thanksgiving baskets or a hot Thanksgiving meal — Nov. 21-26 — to those who may have fallen

on hard times.

The following is a guide to locations throughout Rialto, Redlands, Colton, San Bernardino and Highland welcoming residents to a community holiday dinner:

Thanksgiving Dinners

Fall Harvest and Thanksgiving Celebration — Nov. 26 Center for Effective Life Transitions, C-FELT 335 N. Riverside Ave., Rialto 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

(First come, first served) Colton

Thanksgiving Dinner—Nov. 26 Hutton Community Center 660 N. Colton Ave. Colton 11 a.m – 1 p.m.

To go dinners are available between noon and 1 p.m.

(Colton residents only. Proof of residency required.)

Information: 909-370-6168

Thanksgiving Dinner—Nov. 26

Luque Community Center 292 E. O Street, Colton 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

To go dinners available between noon and 1 p.m.

(Colton residents only. Proof of residency required.)

Information: 909-370-5087

Frazee Community Center 1140 W. Mill St., San Bernardino 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Information: 909-889-4424

21st Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner, Health Fair and Jacket Boutique — Nov. 24 The Family Focus Center 1931 North E Street, San Bernardino 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Information: 909-881-5597 or 909-475-2528 Thanksgiving Community Dinner — Nov. 24

The Way World Outreach Church Downtown Mission Life

Transformation Center 1001 N. Arrowhead Ave., San Bernardino Noon to 3 p.m.

Information: Call to confirm event information - 909-8841385

Thanksgiving Dinner, arts and crafts and entertainment — Nov. 25

St. Stephens Church & Samaritan Social Services 2219 West 3rd Ave., Muscoy 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

San Bernardino Information: Call to confirm event information - 909-825 Thanksgiving Dinner - Nov. 21 6210 or 909-287-4868

Thanksgiving Dinner hosted

by The Brand’n Iron and Catholic Charities of San Bernardino — Nov. 26

320 S. E Street, San Bernardino 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Information: Ed Hambly III 909 880-3625 (First come, first served) Mary’s Table Thanksgiving Dinner — Nov. 26 Mary’s Mercy Center 641 Roberds Ave., San Bernardino 11:30 a.m. to 1 :30 p.m.

Information: 909-889-2558 Redlands

Thanksgiving meals for seniors

Joslyn Senior Center 21 Grant St., Redlands 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nov. 25 (Thanksgiving Meal for seniors 55+- one ticket per person- must be present. Hosted by the Relands Police Officer’s Association) Information: 909-798-7550

(Registration ends Nov. 21. All registrants must live in San Bernardino/ Riverside County area and provide a military ID,DD-214, or County ID.) Information: 909-269-0113 San Bernardino

Thanksgiving Family Outreach Community Event Nov. 26 Calvary Chapel Antorcha de Fe 761 W. 2nd St. Ste. E, San Bernardino 9 a.m. 2 p.m.

(Event will offer 300 food baskets, food, games, jumpers, kids zone, haircuts, bike repair, medical/ dental screening, community resources.)

Information: 909-522-0362

Thanksgiving Dinner

The Salvation Army 838 N. Alta St., Redlands Thanksgiving meal times vary Information: 909-792-8818 Highland

Operation Thanksgiving at

Highland Family YMCA — Nov. 25

7793 Central Ave., Highland 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Nov. 25 (Must RSVP by Nov. 20) Information: 909-425-9622

Page A6 • November 19, 2015 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

C

Calendar

ity Council Meetings

Colton: First and third Tuesday, 6 p.m.; 650 N. La Cadena Dr. Highland: Second and fourth 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 Tuesday, 6 p.m.; 35 Cajon St. Rialto: Second and fourth Tuesday, 6 p.m.; 150 S. Palm Ave. San Bernardino: First and third Monday, 3 p.m.; 300 N. “D” St.

A

fternoon Delight Dance Socials

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.

Orientation and training are ongoing. New classes start monthly. Se habla espanol.

D

emocratic Luncheon Club of San Bernardino

The Democratic Luncheon Club of San Bernardino meet at 12:15 on Fridays at Club Headquarters, 136 Carousel Mall (near the central glass elevator) in San Bernardino.

Speaker Schedule: 11/20-General Meeting 11/27-Dark 12/4-TBA 12/11-Holiday Potluck Visit us at www.sbdems.com or our new Facebook page at www.facebook/SBDems.

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ag Book Sale

Saturday, November 21, 20159am to 4pm. The Friends of the San Bernardino Public Library are planning a Bag Sale. It will be held in the Friends’ Room located at the rear of the Norman F. Feldheym Central Library, 555 W. 6th Street in San Bernardino. Buy a grocery bag for only $2 and fill it up with your choice of books.

Memberships to the Friends are available at nominal cost in the library’s administration office beallet Folklorico fore the sale, and in the Friends’ room on the day of the sale. “Like” Cultural Classes Friends of the San Bernardino Public Library on Facebook to get Mondays 5:30-6:30 5-11yrs, Mon- a coupon for the book sale. For days 6:30-8:30 11-adult. No charge. more information, please call 909951-233-7027. Knights of Colum- 381-8251 or visit sbpl.org bus, 740 Pennsylvania St., Colton, Ca.

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All seniors, couples and singles, welcome at free dance socials.

Opportunity to make new friends and remember music of our youth.

Joslyn Senior Center: First and second Tuesday 2 p.m., 21 Grant St., Redlands (909) 798-7550.

RMC weekly Redlands Community Center: Every third Friday 2 p.m., 111 LuFarmer’s Market gonia Ave., Redlands (909) 7987572.

Highland Senior Center: Every Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. fourth Tuesday 2 p.m., 3102 E. in front of the hospital. Stop by on Highland Ave., Highland (909) your lunch break for certified fresh produce and artisan breads. ARMC 862-8104. partners with the Southland Farmers hildren’s Way Market Association on the weekly to help promote health and Foster Family & market wellness to the community.

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9am to 3pm at 194 E. 40th St., San Bernardino. The Ladies Auxiliary Unit 777 wil hold a Holiday Boutique. Come browse & shop!

There will be handmade items, jewelry, baked goodies, decorations, painted items, holiday gifts, candles and more. Snack bar will be open. For information call (909) 882-3110.

A

R

elay For Life Kickoff Party

Saturday, November 21 from 6pm to 10pm at American Legion Post 155, 1401 Veteran’s Way, Colton. For more information Contact Randy Rivera, Event Lead at rnjrivera@sbcglobal.net or Renee Villa, People Lead at reneemr24@hotmail.com.

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2

Bernardino 92410. This event will waterman Ave., San Bernardino on be a $7 Tamale Combo Platter the front lawn. Refreshments will Fundraiser. For information contact be served.

Renee (909) 746-1526 or Regina 015 IEFL Alumni (909) 678-2234. Come support ConferReunion Team Wings of a Butterfly.

F

ifth Annual Thanksgiving Dinner

November 26 from 11 am to 3 pm at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 785 N. Arrowhead, San Bernardino. This Holiday Feast is open to everybody and free to all.

The menu is a full Turkey Day meal and there is a clothes closet for those in need of warm wear for the cold winter days.

A

Charlie Brown Christmas

Saturday, November 28 at 2pm and 8pm. For 50 years, “A Charlie Brown Christmas” has been a staple of the holiday season. The animated TV special, which features the cast of the long-running comic strip “Peanuts” discovering the meaning of Christmas, has been aired every year since 1965. Now this Christmas favorite has been adapted into a brand-new stage show, which will be produced at the California Theatre of the Performing Arts in San Bernardino, for two performances.

Tickets to the shows are $38.50-$75 (10% off for seniors), available at www.ticketmaster.com, www.livenation.com www.groupon.com and www.goldstar.com and theater box office at (909) 885-5152.

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ence

Saturday, December 5 from 8am to 4pm. Future Leader Alumni and Parents are encouraged to attend the 2015 IEFL Alumni Reunion Conference. It will take place at California State University San Bernardino.

Register at http://www.ieflp.eventbrite.com.

The conference will focus on leadership and networking of Latino students and parents and will include Alumni workshops, Parent workshops, Networking lunch, Music, Cultura and more. Please email Dr. R. C. Heredia with questions. drrc@iefl.org

H

ome For The Holidays

Saturday, December 12 at 7:30pm at the Historic California Theatre. The San Bernardino Symphony is gearing up for their second annual holiday concert, “Home for the Holidays.” The playbill will include selections from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite and Williams’ Home Alone, as well as delightful renditions of Berlin’s White Christmas, Leontovych’s Carol of the Bells, McCarrick’s arrangement of Hanukkah Habanera, Regney and Baker’s Do You Hear What I Hear, and more. The Symphony will be joined by seven outstanding vocal soloists and the very talented Loma Linda Academy Choir, and the audience will also have a chance to lift their voices in a special sing-along.

Both season and individual tickets may be purchased by calling (909) 381-5388 or visiting the Symphony box office at 198 N. Arrowhead Ave., San Bernardino. Tickets are also available on line at www.sanbernardinosymphony.org

BUSINESS & SERVICES Adoption Agency

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

H

elay For Life Fundraiser

ive Nativity Musical Celebration

Friday, December 4 & Saturoliday Boutique day, December 5 at 7pm. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints invites the community to enjoy a Live Nativity Musical Saturday, November 21, 2015- Sunday, November 22 at 2pm at Celebration. It will be at 3860 N. 2618 Etiwanda Ave., San

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 • November 19, 2015 • Page A7

Page A8 • November 19, 2015 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Santa Paws is coming to town!

HSSBV sets holiday boutique, pet pics with St. Nick

ieCN PhOTO/yAzMiN ALVARez

Jolly St. Nick will make his way to the humane Society of San Bernardino Valley’s annual Santa Paws event Nov. 21 for pet photos with furry friends.

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By Yazmin Alvarez

e’s made his list and checked it twice.

COuRTeSy PhOTO/hSSBV

Thor Slaughter prepares for his photo with Santa Paws at last year’s fundraising event.

Santa will once again be available for photos with pets and people Nov. 21.

He knows who’s been naughty and nice. Santa Paws is packing up and heading to warmer climates this weekend for the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley’s annual Santa Paws Pet Photos and Holiday Boutique Nov. 21.

The fundraising event— in support of the group’s cruelty investigation and humane education programs — kicks off at 9 a.m. at the San Bernardino facility, 374 W. Orange Show Road, bringing a holiday shopping experience to the community. Complete with more than a dozen vendors to help cross off items on this year’s gift lifts, the boutique will feature one-of-akind gifts for pet and people lovers, crafts, as well as a bake

COuRTeSy PhOTO/hSSBV

Guests will have an opportunity to purchase a holiday caricature of their pets during the human Society of San Bernardino Valley’s annual Santa Paws Pet Photo & holiday Boutique Nov. 21.

sale to help fuel hungry shoppers.

But before outfits and hair get frazzled over trying to decide on the perfect gift, take Fido over for a picture with Santa Paws to get those holiday greeting cards out in time.

Registration for pet photos with the animal loving Santa will open from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Humans are welcome to pose with their pets and St. Nick and take home a 5x7 print for $7.

Orders for additional prints, along with a set of 50 holiday greeting cards complete with a personalized message and envelopes can be placed for $25. A set of 8 wallets can be purchased for $10. Picture orders will be available for pick up beginning Dec. 3 at the Humane Society.

While admission to Santa Paws festivities are free, attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of canned or boxed food to benefit

Photo/John Coleman The Veterans Resource Center at San Bernardino Valley College held a Special Recognition Program on campus on November 10. The program was held to express appreciation of ALL veterans, including those who fought in 'unpopular' wars and received little recognition upon their return home. The audience of about a hundred people sat in the campus Greek Theatre and responded to the strong feelings expressed by program speakers.

Pictured above is Andrew Fratti, (3rd from the left), VRC Student-staff who served as MC; Fred (Bo) Dunning, (left), VRC Counselor; Vincent Paige,(2nd from left), Veterans Club, Officer; and Reginald Campbell, VRC Student-staff.

Mary’s Table, which offers a free holiday meal for residents in need.

Pet food donations as well as new, unwrapped toys for children will also be accepted.

This year’s fundraising event is

made possible by Boehringer Ingelheim, Bayer Animal Health and Earhart Photography.

To learn more, call the Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley at 909-386-1400.

Inland Empire Community Newspapers • November 19, 2015 • Page A5

Cajon opens playoffs with decisive 59-0 win

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By Richard Dawson

he Cajon football team didn’t miss a beat in the first round of the CIF-SS Inland Division playoffs on Friday night.

Fresh off winning the Citrus Belt League title, the Cowboys dominated from start to finish during a 59-0 win over Rim of the World.

Cajon advances to the quarterfinals and will play San Jacinto on November 20.

Senior cornerback Edward Kilpatrick set the tone for the Cowboys, intercepting Scots quarterback Jimmy Schroeder on the first play of the game. Three

plays later, freshman quarterback Jayden Daniels found senior wideout Tyrone Gasaway for a touchdown.

Daniels, who finished with 280 yards passing, and Gasaway connected all night long, including two more touchdowns as Cajon was in complete control heading into halftime up 35-0.

Gasaway hauled in six passes and topped 100 yards on the night.

Cajon added another 24 unanswered points in the third quarter and was able to rest its starters.

Cajon isn’t the only team from the CBL that picked up a win in the Inland Division first round.

Redlands defeated Paloma Val-

ley 49-21 after Joey Burrola and the offense had a huge second half. Burrola tossed three scores and rushed for another. The Terriers have a second round matchup with Citrus Hill.

Redlands East Valley won big against Jurupa Hills 73-0 behind four touchdown passes from Armando Herrera and two punt return touchdowns by Ryan Nieman. The Wildcats will play at Moreno Valley Rancho Verde.

If both Redlands and REV win in the second round, it would set up a semifinals rematch between the two teams. REV won the annual Smudge Pot game between the rivals 52-14 back on October 2.

San Bernardino Scouts Seek Food Donations for Salvation Army

Photo Courtesy/Ricardo Tomboc Sandy Walsh of San Bernardino said she saw the Scouts in front of the market and came out of the store handing Cub Scout Jacob Briggs (10) a bag of groceries. She stated she wanted to help the Scouts accomplish their goal of helping collect food for the Salvation Army.

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By Ricardo Tomboc

n Saturday November 14 several scouts from the Inland Empire partnered with the San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps to collect a variety of food items. Standing in front of the Stater Bros. shopping center on 40th Street in North San Bernardino, the Scouts were able to approach customers entering the market. Many of the customers came out of the store with bags of groceries to give the Scouts.

The partnership between the Boy Scouts, Stater Bros., and the Salvation Army has existed for many years. Food items will be used to supplement the upcoming San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps Thanksgiving meal. The food items not used on Thanksgiving will be given away to the hundreds of families that will be asking for assistance during the Christmas Season.

During this upcoming Christmas Season more than 500 families are expected to ask for some type of assistance. The Salvation Army staff members and volunteers are gearing up for the season.

The Scouts that showed up at the Stater Bros. Market were from pack 247, which meet at the Gateway Christian Fellowship in San Bernardino. The Scouts

worked in two-hour shifts, allowing all of the Scouts in the pack to get the experience of working with the public.

Sam Nalvanvian happily purchased a bag filled with various food items and handed them to Cub Scout Jacob Reed (11), who gladly accepted the donation.

Sam said that he took this opportunity to help the Salvation Army.

Sandy Walsh of San Bernardino said that she saw the Scouts in

front of the market and wanted to help them accomplish their goal of helping collect food for the Salvation Army.

The San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps recently moved into their new location at 2626 E. Pacific Street in San Bernardino.

Donations of canned food items, toys and monetary gifts can be dropped off at the Corps office during normal business hours, Monday thru Friday.

Photo/Richard Dawson QB Jayden Daniels led Cajon to a 59-0 win over Rim of the World during the first round of the Inland Division playoffs on November 13.

Photo/Richard Dawson Tyrone Gasaway caught three touchdowns for the Cowboys and they advance to play San Jacinto in the quarterfinals.

Photo Courtesy/Ricardo Tomboc From left to right: Jacob Briggs (10), Trent Slobom (10), Jacob Reed (11), and Lucas Johnson (7) are from pack 247, Gateway Christian Fellowship in San Bernardino. These Scouts spent a two hours collecting food items in front of Stater Bros. Market on 40th Street.

Photo Courtesy/Ricardo Tomboc Sam Nalvanvian happily purchased a bag filled with various food items and handed them to Cub Scout Jacob Reed (11), who gladly accepted the donation. Sam said that he took this opportunity to help the Salvation Army

Page A10 • November 19, 2015 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

Carter's Isaiah Davis to play baseball at Fresno State; Slugger can hit, throw, field and sing

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By Harvey M. Kahn

arter High School senior centerfielder Isaiah Davis has committed to play baseball at Fresno State University next season on scholarship. Davis signed his letter of intent on Nov. 13 in a ceremony held on the Carter High School campus. Davis, 17, has shown remarkable improvement the past two years, says Carter baseball coach Samuel Lopez.

"He has improved by leaps and bounds since his freshman season. He hasn't been playing baseball that long, so he still looks a little raw," remarked Lopez. "He has a high sealing and will con-

tinue to get better. The scouts call him an athlete playing baseball."

Davis had offers from Cal Baptist, UC Irvine, UCR and Long Beach State. He chose Fresno because he liked the city and how it's structured.

The progression of Davis is more impressive when he recalls having to struggle for playing time in Little League. Davis did not play in the Little League majors until he was a 12-year-old.

As an 11-year-old he was still in the minors. "I just started playing baseball at age 11. I was a football player when I was younger," said Davis. "When I broke my arm playing football, it was my mom's orders (Lanette) that there

Photo Courtesy/Carter softball coach Oscar Larios Carter High School softball player Pamala Baber pictured with her mother while signing letter of intent to play next year at University Texas-El Paso.

would be no more football."

Lopez spelled out the many options available to Davis, either as an athlete, scholar or entertainer.

"He's a great student so he's got that option and he's involved in the school choir." Lopez listed his options on the diamond as well.

"Scouts have shown some interest in him as a pitcher." Davis has pitched a total of eight innings entering his senior year. "We might plug him in as a pitcher. It's too early to say," said Lopez.

Davis says he's starting to like the idea of pitching but has just started taking it more serious. "I might be a closer. I like the pressure." Thus far, Lopez likes what Davis has already brought to Carter baseball. He's the first in school history to make All-CIF 1st team after hitting .393 and ranking among the Citrus Belt League leaders in all offensive categories last season.

As a freshman and sophomore, Davis helped Carter to consecutive San Andreas League championships. As a junior last season he helped Carter advance to the CIF-SS Division 2 playoff quarterfinals, where it upset Santa Ana Foothill, the division's No. 2 ranked team.

It's no secret that Major League Baseball teams have an eye on Davis, something he never thought about until a year ago.

"After my sophomore year I started to grow more. My travel ball coach Antonio Garcia and coach Lopez have really spent time helping me." Davis plays on the Highlanders travel team.

Davis like the idea of someday playing pro baseball, however he is honest about his future. "Fundamentally, I'm still raw. I've been staying after practice working on my hitting and lifting weights. I need to work on myself as a person. I have to learn to adjust to adversity."

Asked if he would like to sing the national anthem before a game, Davis replied, "If the opportunity would arise. I would think about it."

Photo Courtesy/Samuel Lopez Isaiah Davis (Left) with Carter High School baseball coach Samuel Lopez at ceremonial signing to accept scholarship to Fresno State.

Photo Courtesy/Samuel Lopez Isaiah Davis pictured with Fresno State Baseball shirt with members of his family at Nov. 13 signing ceremony held at Carter High School.

Westside comes together to honor Veterans at Plaza Park

Page A16 • November 19, 2015 • Inland Empire Community Newspapers

PHOTO/ANTHONY VICTORIA

Former U.S. Navy sailor and Vietnam veteran Jim Corrales salutes the crowd during the Veterans Day Salute parade on Nov. 11 in San Bernardino.

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By Anthony Victoria, Staff Writer

ozens of veterans rushed into Plaza Park on November 11 to experience the 15th annual Veterans Day Salute, which for the first time featured a parade.

For former U.S. Navy sailor and Vietnam War veteran Jim Corrales, also a community organizer and affiliate of the American Legion Post and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), each Salute is a reminder of the sacrifice he and fellow veterans put forth to serve their nation.

“I came home from Vietnam,” he said. “I have 58,872 brothers that are on a wall in Washington D.C. This is a showing of gratitude that we never got when we returned home. We were spit upon, called names, degraded; even our nation turned its back on us. To have something like this is fantastic.”

As veterans of military conflicts dating back to the Korean War travelled down Mt. Vernon Avenue en route to the park, hundreds of enthusiastic and proud residents lined up along Mt. Vernon Avenue to greet their heroes.

Among those residents was Al-

fredo Baltazar, whose son Steven, 24, is currently serving in Iraq as a sergeant in the Army. Holding up a red, white, and blue banner that read, “Thank you for your service”, Baltazar emphasized his obligation to recognize veterans and the city’s duty to ensure their legacies are not forgotten.

“It’s about time we have something like this,” he said. “Especially on the westside, where people nowadays tend to stay separated. This brings the community together.”

The event’s organizers--the City of San Bernardino, KCAA Radio, and the Suavecitos Car Club-planned the event and parade for six months, which at its conclusion proved to be worth the effort. According to councilwoman Virginia Marquez, there were over 80 entries in the parade and about one thousand people that attended the ceremony at Plaza Park that featured everything from political speeches to Native American prayer songs.

“The founding father (Danny Florez) approached me earlier in the year and explained that a local car club wanted to be involved,” Marquez said. “Suavecitos stepped up and were the heavy lifters of

PHOTO/ANTHONY VICTORIA

Members of the Arroyo Valley Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) presenting the colors during the 15th annual Veterans Day Salute held at Plaza Park in San Bernardino on Nov. 11.

this event. They have helped restore pride in the Westside, and I am ecstatic about it.”

Parks and Recreation director Mickey Valdivia said next year’s parade should be even bigger.

There are discussions of bringing in more partners and potentially holding the event on a Saturday.

Next year’s event will coincide with the 90th anniversary of the establishment of Route 66. Marquez said she is open to that idea.

“It will be huge; we will take over the entire city,” she said. “If you bring in more partnerships, there will be more resources. Of course I will be a supporter of that.

Expect big things next year!”

Corrales said the event offered more than what he anticipated.

“The event was wonderful,” said Corrales. “The reception of the veterans was even greater. People were humble. I think it turned out to be better than what people first expected.