Local

A “Stop the Hate” Celebration

“IE Choice Awards Get Familiar with Some of the Biggest Acts to Roll Through”

RIALTO, CA— The 2024 IE Choice Awards is set to take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 2 p.m., with the red carpet ready to welcome some of the most influential figures across various fields. This significant event aims to celebrate excellence and recognize individuals and organizations that have made substantial contributions in their respective areas. Attendees can look forward to an afternoon filled with entertainment, accolades, inspiring speeches, and the opportunity to connect with industry leaders. As the date draws closer, excitement is building around the nominees and the impact of their work, making this a noteworthy event to watch.

The IE Choice Awards promises to be more than just a night of awards and speeches. It will feature a star-studded lineup of nominees, performers, and the legendary clothing designer for celebrities, Alex Angelino. Notable attendees include actress and singer Brely Evans, Latrice Kristine, rapper DoggyStyleeee, Lil G 909, Tycoon62, and Mac9Most, award-winning DJ Lady P and MMA World Champion Eugene V.I.P. Weems. This annual ceremony not only celebrates hip-hop music but also honors some of the most significant philanthropists and individuals and organizations that have demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

Several prominent artists from the industry will take the stage for unforgettable performances, adding to the evening’s excitement. The ceremony will be taped in San Bernardino, California, and will be broadcast on http://talon36.com/.

The IE Choice Awards is set to be an inspiring and memorable event. The awards will be hosted by yours truly Moori Richardson. Tickets are available @ eventbrite.com. There will be a V.I.P. after party for the IE CHOICE AWARDS starting at 7pm that will be @ RAQUEL’S JAZZ LOUNGE 134 S Riverside Ave, Rialto, CA 92376.

Regional Public Safety Training Center Hosts Multi-Company Day

Communications Advisor Veronica Hill had the honor of joining Sheriff Shannon D. Dicus and members of Congressman Jay Obernolte and Assemblyman Tom Lackey’s offices for Multi Company Day at Victor Valley College’s Regional Public Safety Training Center.

More than 550 students from 14 High Desert schools participated in the program, which included live drills of firefighters, police officers and Paramedics reacting to high-stress situations.

The city would like to thank Director of Emergency Medical Services Dave Oleson for the informative tour! The city is fortunate to have such a high-quality and cutting-edge training center right in our own backyard! To learn more about the program, click here.

In Remembrance: December 2, 2025

Monday, December 2, marks the ninth anniversary of the December 2, 2015, terrorist attack in San Bernardino. On that day, 14 people were taken from us, including 13 county employees. Many more were wounded, physically and emotionally.

The county government family will always remember these 14 souls. The public is invited to join us in observing a moment of remembrance at 10:55 a.m. on Monday, December 2, on the county’s FacebookX and Instagram platforms.

Please watch this video to remember those who were taken from us. Flags at all county facilities will be flown at half-mast on Monday, December 2. The county invites those who fly an American flag at home or their place of work to also lower their flags on December 2.

The public is also invited to visit the Curtain of Courage Memorial, which is located on the east side of the County Government Center at 385 N. Arrowhead Ave. in San Bernardino. This memorial serves to forever honor those who were taken from us, the survivors and first responders from that tragic day.

Resources are available to help those experiencing trauma due to the events of December 2, 2015.

Over 100 Youth Celebrate Their Adoption Finalization

Over 100 youth, ranging in age from 10 ½ months to 14 years old, were adopted into their forever homes on November 13 during the Children and Family Services (CFS) 24th Annual Adoption Finalization Event.

In partnership with the Superior Court of California and the San Bernardino County Juvenile Court, 70 families celebrated the finalization of their adoptions at the Ontario Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Making Campfire Memories with Forever Families,” captured the warmth and lasting bonds formed on this special day. CFS provided various activities for the families such as face painting, balloon animals, treasure hunts, and a resource fair while they waited for their courtroom time to finalize their adoptions.

This year’s celebration featured heartwarming remarks from Assemblyman Tom Lackey, The Honorable Judge Rodney Cortez, the Honorable Judge Lynn M. Poncin, San Bernardino County Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman, San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., San Bernardino County Chief Executive Officer Luther Snoke, Assistant Executive Officer Diane Rundles and CFS Director Jeany Zepeda. Each congratulated the families on this joyful day and emphasized the significance of creating stable, loving homes for youth.

“Today, we celebrate children finding permanency and leaving foster care to join their forever families. This event also honors the village that made this possible, reminding us that no family is alone on this journey. Behind every child and family is a community of dedicated individuals who have played a vital role in supporting them”, Zepeda said.

The Annual Adoption Finalization Event reflects CFS’s commitment to permanency for children when reunification with their biological families is no longer possible. It’s a powerful reminder of the critical work being done to give every child the opportunity to grow up in a safe, nurturing home. For families interested in learning more about adoption, please visit Adoptions – Children and Family Services or contact San Bernardino County Adoption Services at 1-800- 722-4477.

Ribbon Cutting Held for Barstow’s North First Avenue Bridge

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Constituent Services Director Samuel Shoup had the pleasure of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly constructed North First Avenue Bridge on my behalf.

This significant project, led by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) in partnership with the City of Barstow and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, has replaced the outdated bridge with a modern structure that will serve the community for years to come.

The new bridge, which began construction in January 2023, is a testament to the commitment of our local leaders to improving transportation infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for San Bernardino County residents.

“The Eternal Consequence of a Delayed Decision.”

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

You will be punished with eternal destruction, forever separated from the Lord and from His glorious power. The most severe consequence of delaying salvation. Eternal Separation from God. [2 Thessalonians 1:5-10].

You will be thrown into the Lake of Fire. Eternal Torment Forever and Ever [Revelation 14:9-11].

You will forever regret your decision to reject God’s offer of salvation. Eternal Lament Forever and ever. [Luke 16:19-31].

Knowing that truth, tell me, if you ignore God’s provision for your soul’s salvation, how will you escape the consequences of such neglect? How will you escape His wrath? [John 3:36]; His condemnation? [John 3:18]; His word of banishment? [Matthew 26:41]. You will not!

Listen, do not confuse God’s patience with His tolerance. Yes, God is loving, He is kind, He is patient, but there comes a time when God will say, “Enough.” The story of Sodom and Gomorrah reminds us of such. God said “Enough.” Afterwards, He passed judgment, issued a verdict and carried out the sentence. [Genesis 19:23-25]. Don’t take God’s grace for granted. His patience is not a license to delay salvation, but an opportunity for you to repent and be saved [2 Peter 3:9].

Understand we are living in a time of judgment just as the people of Jesus time were. For us though, the grace of God is being extended as never before. Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means [Romans 6]. Understand the urgency of salvation because of the reality of life’s brevity. Our life on earth is limited. Our days are numbered, and we do not know when our time will come. The offer of Salvation is NOW! Don’t wait until it’s too late! [2 Corinthians 6:2; Isaiah 55:6; 2 Peter 3:9; Isaiah 55:6; James 4:14]. God has given us a limited amount of time on Earth, and we must use it wisely [Luke 12:20] Delaying decisions or actions can lead to missed opportunities. [Proverbs 27; Hebrews 3:15]. Don’t wait until its too late because one day God Mercy is going to expire and when it does, His judgment and wrath will be unleashed. [Romans 2: 1-6]. For He says in [Isaiah 48:9] know that for My own name sake, I will delay My wrath; for the sake of My praise, I will restrain it, so as not to kill you.

You know there is an old imaginary/fictitious story of a convocation of demons who met in Hell to discuss how best to damn and destroy the lives of men. One demon stood and said, “I know how to damn the lives of men. Let us tell them there is “No God.” Satan replied, “A fine suggestion.” We’ll tell them there is no God and some of them will believe it. But the fool has said in his heart there is no God and not all men are fools. We need another suggestion.

Another demon stood and said, “I know what we can do. Let us tell them that the Bible is not inspired, that it isn’t the Word of God.” And Satan smiled and said, very good. We’ll tell them that the Bible isn’t the infallible, inerrant Word of God. But the Bible remains the best seller of all books on earth. We need another suggestion.

Another demon stood and said, “I know what we can do. Let us tell them that Jesus is not the Son of God. He didn’t rise from the grave. That Jesus was merely a mortal man.” Satan said, that’s a good suggestion. We’ll tell them that Jesus was not the Son of God, and many will believe us. But the more we talk about Jesus, the more He draw men to Himself. We need something else.

Finally, another demon stood and said, “I know – Let’s admit it all. Let’s admit that there is a God. Let’s admit that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. Let’s admit that Jesus is all that He said He was. Then let’s whisper in their hearts, “But do nothing about it. Some other day. Some other time. At a more convenient season.” And Satan says, “That’s it. There was Hellish applause. The demons said, “That is the best plan of all.” That will work.” And it does.

Almost persuaded” now to believe; Almost persuaded” Christ to receive; Seems now some soul to say, “Go, Spirit, go thy way, some more convenient day on thee I’ll call.”

“Almost persuaded,” come, come today; Almost persuaded,” turn not away; Jesus invites you here, angels are lingering near, prayers rise from hearts so dear; O wanderer, come!

“Almost persuaded,” harvest is past! Almost persuaded,” doom comes at last; “Almost” cannot avail; “Almost” is but to fail! Sad, sad that bitter wail— “Almost—but lost!”  [Author: Philip Bliss]

Jesus Weep! [John 11:35]. You neglected the Rock who begot you and forgot the God who gave you birth. [Deuteronomy 32:18]. They would not, and now they cannot.” [Isaiah 6].

The Eternal Consequence of a Delayed Decision!

SB Symphony presents A Christmas Festival

Annual Holiday Concert will be Performed December 16

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra will present their annual holiday concert on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. Entitled “A Christmas Festival,” this performance will be held at the historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts in downtown San Bernardino.

Under the baton of Maestro Anthony Parnther, the repertoire will feature a number of holiday favorites, including “Carol of the Bells” by Mykola Leontovych, “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway and Nadine McKinnor, “The Christmas Song” by Mel Tormé and Robert Wells, “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” by Walter Kent, “Jingle Bells” by James Lord Pierpont, “I Need an Angel” by Ruben Studdard, “Silent Night, Holy Night” by Franz Xaver Gruber, “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen,” With A Christmas Heart” by Luther Vandross, “A Whole New World” by Alan Menken, “My Favorite Things” by Richard Rodgers, “Who Would Imagine A King” by Mervyn Warren, “I Just Had to Hear Your Voice” by Oleta Adams, “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” by John Francis Wade.

Vocalists Jamie Carganilla, Maiya Sykes, and Drew Tablak, who patrons will recognize from their appearances at the Symphony’s annual concerts under the stars, will lend their angelic voices to this joyful show. Audiences will also marvel at several Cirque performers whose unique skills will bring a further level of festive variety.

In addition, the Granite Hills High School GREAT Academy Choir led by Director of Music and Piano Shane Churchill will accompany the Orchestra, and members of the A.B. Miller High School Conservatory of Dance with direction by Aisha Bardge and Nicole Robinson will make a special appearance. The audience will also take center stage in a grand sing-along finale.

Explained Maestro Parnther, “Perhaps more than anything else we do each year, the annual holiday performance is designed to lift the spirit and gladden the heart. Quite honestly, seeing everyone on their feet raising their voices in song last year literally brought a tear to my eye, and I anticipate it will do the same this year.”

Patrons, who are highly encouraged to dress in their holiday best – with nods to both black tie and ugly sweaters – will begin their festive afternoon even before the baton descends as the Inland Valley Repertory Theater’s Dickens Carolers will be performing in the lobby beginning at 2 p.m.

Attendees are highly encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy which will be donated to Symphony partners, The Children’s Fund of San Bernardino.

“This is going to be the region’s most musically festive evening!” shared Symphony Board of Directors President Donna Marie Minano. “We cannot wait to welcome you all!”

Tickets and Location Details

Tickets for A Christmas Festival are available at $20-$100 per seat. and may be purchased online at www.sanbernardinosymphony.org or by phone at (909) 381-5388 Monday through Friday. Students and Active Military are always $15.

Doors open and the carolers begin at 2 p.m.; the concert begins promptly at 3 p.m.

The historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts is located at 562 W. 4th Street San Bernardino. Free, lighted parking is available directly across from the venue and is accessible from E Street by following the signs.

Venue box office sales are planned prior to the concert, but this performance generally sells out, so the availability of seats cannot be guaranteed.

More Great Music December 15

If one fabulous concert isn’t enough, please consider joining us for the inaugural performance of the San Bernardino Youth Symphony Orchestra at the historic San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 15. $10 general admission tickets are available at www.sanbernardinosymphonyorg or at the door.

 

Loma Linda University Breaks Ground for New Pediatric Clinics

District Director Kimberly Mesen was pleased to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Loma Linda University Children’s Health Pediatric Medical Clinics.

This new facility will bring together essential pediatric services under one roof, providing comprehensive care for our County’s youngest residents.

They are thrilled to see this project come to life and look forward to the positive impact it will have on families in the region.

First 5 San Bernardino marks 25 years of supporting local families

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — First 5 San Bernardino celebrated 25 years of serving young children and families on November 14 at the historic Fox Theater in Redlands. The event brought together local leaders, partners and advocates to reflect on the organization’s milestones and its continued mission to support children ages 0-5 and their families in our county.

The event featured a full program that included keynote speaker Ted Lempert, president of Children Now, awards and recognitions, and special appearances by notable professionals in children and family services such as State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and Nadine Burke Harris (virtual), founder of the Center for Youth Wellness and Former Surgeon General of California.

“What First 5 San Bernardino does matters so much. This county has the greatest diversity, the greatest growth, certainly the greatest people and the greatest opportunity,” Thurmond said during his remarks delivered at the event. “We have an opportunity to make sure that children have access to nutrition, early education, learning to read and more. It starts with what happens here in San Bernardino.”

The celebration also honored local champions who’ve made a difference in the lives of local families.

“We know that raising children can oftentimes take a village, so we are proud to have been able to stand alongside in support of our county’s families for so many years,” said Karen Scott, executive director of First 5 San Bernardino.

Since its founding in 1999, First 5 San Bernardino has focused on empowering parents and caregivers through a broad network of county partnerships that offer vital family support services. Together with these partners, the organization helps ensure that every child in San Bernardino County has the opportunity for a strong start and a better life.

Follow their story at First5SanBernardino.org and on Instagram @first5sanbernardino.

Board of Supervisors Announces New Health Officer

On November 19, the Board of Supervisors appointed Dr. Sharon Wang, DO, MSHPE, FIDSA as the new county health officer, effective Nov. 21. Dr. Wang brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this vital role, where she will oversee public health initiatives and lead the county’s efforts in promoting health and wellness for all residents. Dr. Wang is the first woman to serve as the county’s health officer.

Dr. Wang graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, and completed her training in Dietetics at Yale New Haven Hospital. She earned her Doctor of Osteopathy degree from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, where she graduated fifth in her class, while simultaneously completing her master’s degree in health education. Following her medical training, Dr. Wang completed an internal medicine residency and an infectious diseases fellowship at the University of California, Davis. She is dually board-certified in internal medicine and infectious diseases.

“Public health is a collaborative effort, and I look forward to working with our dedicated team and community partners to address the challenges we face and implement innovative solutions that enhance the well-being of our population,” Dr. Wang said.

Before her appointment as health officer, Dr. Wang served as the deputy county health officer, playing a pivotal role in guiding public health strategies and initiatives. Prior to that, she worked at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) where she became a highly respected specialist in infectious diseases, playing a crucial role in establishing and maintaining the antibiotic registry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Wang served as a key infectious diseases consultant for ARMC’s response and treatment program. She is known for her passion for teaching, leadership, teamwork and warm personality, having been recognized as the 2020 Physician of the Year at ARMC.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Wang join our team as health officer,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “Her extensive background in public health and infectious diseases will be invaluable as we continue to address the health needs of our community.”

Dr. Wang is eager to engage with the community and prioritize public health initiatives that will improve the health and well-being of San Bernardino County residents.