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Online registration is now open for one of the region’s premier annual events, the 12th Anniversary Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion, September 19 and 20 along historic Euclid Avenue in downtown Ontario.

Classic car owners can take advantage of the showcase event’s new user-friendly website to choose from one of two registration options, including, again this year, a VIP Package that includes two passes, a Friday buffet dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner in the VIP Hospitality area, T-shirts and a reserved parking area. Vehicles from 1988 and earlier are eligible.

Powered by Greater Ontario California (GOCAL), Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion is one of the region’s most popular events, attracting more than 1,000 classic cars and drawing more than 150,000 attendees annually.

“We look forward to welcoming classic car owners, and auto enthusiasts plus residents, guests, and visitors ready to enjoy this premiere annual event. Enjoy two days of classic cars cruisin’ historic Euclid Avenue, contests, live entertainment, fabulous food, and fun for the entire family!” said Michael Krouse, President & CEO of GOCAL.

ROUTE 66 CRUISIN’ REUNION CLASSIC CAR REGISTRATION OPTIONS

VIP/HOSPITALITY EXPERIENCE PACKAGE $250.00

• One Vehicle Admission for both days to Display and Cruise the Route
• A reserved classic car parking area near the VIP Club to park your vehicle
• Your Classic Car will be eligible for our judged Awards
• 2 VIP passes (non-transferrable wristbands for the 2-day event) which includes:
  • 4 bar drinks tickets per wristband; includes complimentary sodas, water and juices
  • Friday Buffet Dinner
  • Saturday Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner including snacks between meals
  • The VIP Club is a Premium elevated lounge viewing area on the Euclid Avenue Median
  • Goodie bag with souvenir map, sponsor goodies and more!
  • Two (2) Official Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion 2025 Participant T-Shirts
  • One (1) Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion Commemorative poster
  • One (1) Commemorative License Plate & Magnet

Regular Vehicle Registration $60.00

• Vehicle Admission for both days to Display and Cruise the Route
• Goodie bag with souvenir map, sponsor goodies, and more!
  • One (1) Official Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion 2025 Participant T-Shirt
  • One (1) Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion Commemorative poster
  • One (1) Commemorative License Plate
  • One (1) Commemorative Magnet

Euclid Avenue, contests, live entertainment, fabulous food, and fun for the entire family!” said Michael Krouse, President & CEO of GOCAL.

ROUTE 66 CRUISIN REUNION

Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion®, a 501-(c3) organization, created by Greater Ontario California (GOCAL), is a Southern California ultimate weekend celebration of America’s love affair with the automobile and its world-famous highway, Route 66. Two days of cruisin’, contests, live entertainment, fabulous food and revelry make it one of the best events of its kind. Held annually each September along historic, tree-shaded Euclid Avenue in Ontario, California, Route 66 Cruisin’ Reunion is where classic cruisers, convertibles, hot rods, and wicked Woodies fuel a jam-packed jamboree.  Click here for details.

GREATER ONTARIO CALIFORNIA

Greater Ontario California (GOCAL) is the official destination marketing organization to promote the cities of Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga, California to visitors nationally and internationally.  As destination experts we provide leisure, meeting groups and meeting professionals with an unbiased, comprehensive resource when booking a tour, convention, meeting or event within the cities of Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga, California.  Ideal for leisure and business travel, the region boasts scenic mountains, deserts, vineyards and metropolitan areas that are both historic and cosmopolitan in character. Under the umbrella of the Greater Ontario California is the California Welcome Center and several Signature Events to support the overall mission to drive visitors to the region, stimulating economic growth.  GOCAL provides the necessary destination support tools to execute a successful experience. Visit www.GO-CAL.org

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — She’s opened doors for thousands, built pathways to success, and transformed communities—yet many will never know her name. That’s exactly why she’s being honored. Time for Change Foundation is thrilled to announce that Ginger Ontiveros will be recognized as this year’s Unsung Hero at the 23rd Annual Awards Gala: Unwavering—Igniting Change, Inspiring Hope.

As the President and CEO of Tomorrow’s Talent, Ontiveros has been the driving force behind groundbreaking initiatives that connect students with life-changing career opportunities. From funding scholarships to forging powerful partnerships, her work has quietly shaped the future of the Inland Empire—one opportunity at a time.

“Ginger Ontiveros embodies the spirit of an Unsung Hero. She doesn’t seek the spotlight, but her work has illuminated pathways for countless young people to chase their dreams,” said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director of Time for Change Foundation. “Her legacy is written in the lives she’s changed, and we are honored to celebrate her incredible contributions.”

Ontiveros has spent her career building bridges between education and employment, previously serving as the Chief Communications and Community Engagement Officer for the San Bernardino City Unified School District and simultaneously, the Executive Director of the Making Hope Happen Foundation, where she led initiatives that provided mentorship, resources, and career readiness programs. Her impact extends far beyond the classroom—through programs like Uplift San Bernardino, she has played a key role in strengthening communities and creating lasting change.

A proud advocate for education, Ontiveros holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication/Public Relations from California State University, San Bernardino and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Regis University. As a product of the community college system, she was inducted into the Victor Valley College Alumni Hall of Fame in recognition of her legacy of leadership in the High Desert region.

Now, Time for Change Foundation is shining a light on her extraordinary efforts at the 23rd Annual Awards Gala, where leaders, advocates, and changemakers will gather to celebrate those making a difference in our communities.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA– Another door to stability and success has opened! Time for Change Foundation (TFCF) proudly unveiled its fourth emergency shelter, expanding its life-changing services for individuals and families in need. The grand opening, held on March 15, 2025, brought together community leaders, including Mayor Helen Tran and 7th Ward Councilwoman Dr. Treasure Ortiz, to celebrate this milestone in the fight against homelessness.

“This isn’t just about housing—it’s about restoring dignity, rebuilding lives, and creating opportunities for lasting change,” said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director of Time for Change Foundation. “With this new shelter, we are opening more than doors; we are opening possibilities.”

The opening was particularly meaningful as it took place on Dr. Kim Carter-Tillman’s 32nd sobriety birthday—a full-circle moment for the TFCF founder, whose journey from adversity to advocacy has inspired countless others to rebuild their lives.

For over two decades, TFCF has been a driving force in transforming lives, offering more than just shelter—it provides hope, stability, and a pathway to self-sufficiency. To date, TFCF has served over 4,800 individuals and reunited 325 children with their mothers from foster care, proving that with the right support, families can heal, rebuild, and create brighter futures.

Mayor Helen Tran praised the organization’s unwavering commitment, stating, “This new shelter is more than just a house—it’s a lifeline. It represents compassion, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of this organization in our community to uplift those who need it most.”

Adding to the celebration, award-winning actress and mental health advocate Taraji P. Henson contributed to the effort by donating essential furnishings to help transform the shelter into a warm and welcoming home for its residents. Her generosity reinforces the power of collective action in addressing homelessness and supporting vulnerable communities.

With the addition of this new shelter, TFCF continues to break barriers, offering comprehensive programs that address the root causes of homelessness, including job readiness, financial literacy, and mental health support. The organization remains unwavering in its mission to provide individuals with the tools they need to thrive.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Time for Change Foundation is proud to announce that Michelle Decker, CEO of the Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF), will be honored with the Community Champion Award at the 23rd Annual Awards Gala: Unwavering – Igniting Change, Inspiring Hope. A visionary leader and tireless advocate for equity, Michelle has dedicated her career to fostering community-driven solutions that create lasting impact across Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.

With over 30 years of leadership in community and economic development, Michelle has shaped the Inland Empire’s philanthropic landscape, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most. Under her leadership, IECF has mobilized critical funding for climate resilience, housing, health, inclusive economic development, and educational equity—transforming lives and neighborhoods in the process.

“Michelle’s unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more equitable Inland Empire is nothing short of inspiring,” said Vanessa Perez, Time for Change Foundation’s Executive Director. “Her leadership is a catalyst for change, proving that philanthropy, when done right, can truly uplift entire communities.”

As the driving force behind IECF’s success, Michelle has championed initiatives such as the IE Black Equity Initiative Fund and the CIELO Fund, the region’s first Latino-focused philanthropic fund. She has also played a pivotal role in securing funding for the California Creative Corps and Regional Forest and Fire Capacity programs, ensuring that the region thrives economically, socially, and environmentally.

Beyond her role at IECF, Michelle’s passion for participatory development has been a defining force in her career, from leading community revitalization efforts in Baltimore to serving as CEO of Rural Action in Appalachian, Ohio. Her ability to bridge state, private, and grassroots efforts makes her a true force for change.

SB Fatherhood is excited to invite you to our 8th Annual Daddy Daughter Dance, which will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., at the Inland Career Education Center; located at 1200 N. E Street, San Bernardino, CA 92405. Join us for a family-fun event with music, dancing, opportunity drawings, food, and much more!

Our Daddy Daughter Dance targets fathers/father-figures and their daughters/daughter-figures from the ages of 5 yrs and older.

The purpose for hosting this amazing event is to: 1) Raise awareness of the importance of the positive relationship between fathers and/or father-figures and their daughters or daughter- figures, and 2) Provide a supportive environment for connecting and strengthening the bond between fathers and/or father-figures and their daughters or daughter-figures.

In her book, Father-Daughter Relationships, Contemporary Research and Issues, by Dr. Linda Nielsen (2012), Dr. Nielson reveals research showing that when fathers are positively involved, daughters are often: More successful in school and their career; more individualized, self-directed, self-sufficient and self-regulated; they have better communication and problems skills; they are less likely to develop depression and anxiety disorders; and they are less likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors.

This year’s Daddy Daughter Dance’s theme is “Fathers Blessing Daughters”. Our amazing presenters will inform the guests of the importance of fathers blessing their daughters. Then, there will be an informal (voluntary) father/daughter bonding ceremony.

Other activities will include food, music, dance, door prizes, photo booths, and lots of fun!

The Daddy Daughter Dance event is open to the public. The event tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite.com or bit.ly/SBF-DDD2025 . (NOTE: The Advance ticket price (purchased before the event) is $14.64, and the Door ticket price (at the event) is $20.00; cash preferred.) Advance ticket purchase is encouraged since space is limited. We hope to see you there!

For more  information  about  San  Bernardino  Fatherhood,  visit  their  website  at: https://sbfatherhood.com/ or contact Ryan Berryman at (909) 567-9508.

Rialto resident Ana Gonzalez honored as Senate District 29 Woman of the Year at the California State Capitol.

REDLANDS, CA— On March 7, 2025, Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) hosted the 9th Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon, recognizing outstanding women from the 29th Senate District for their exceptional contributions to their communities. This year, the event received over 100 nominations, highlighting the incredible work being done by women across the Inland Empire.

This annual tradition honors women who have demonstrated leadership, resilience, and dedication in fields such as public service, education, healthcare, business, and advocacy. These honorees represent the best of the 29th Senate District, inspiring others and shaping a brighter future for the region.

“The Women of Distinction we celebrate today have dedicated their lives to service, leadership, and lifting up our communities,” said Senator Reyes. “They are the educators, advocates, business leaders, and trailblazers who are creating a lasting impact in the 29th Senate District and beyond. It is important that we take the time to recognize their hard work, honor their contributions, and ensure that their voices are heard.”

2025 Women of Distinction Honorees:

• Lizbeth Abeln – Community Organizer, Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice
• Dolores Armstead-Robinson – President, Empire Management Properties
• MaryHelen Betancourt – Board Member, Colton Area Museum
• Ashley Bettas-Alcala – President, San Bernardino Teachers Association
• Cecilia Antoinette Callicott – President, City of San Bernardino Water Board
• Diana Ordaz Cherrington – Founder, Alpha Prime Health Insurance Solutions
• Dr. Claudia M. Davis – Vice Chair, Community Hospital of San Bernardino Board
• Pamela Deans – Executive Director, Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland Southern California
• Lois Sicking – Retired Air Pollution Engineer, California Air Resources Board
• Ana Gonzalez – Executive Director, Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ)
• Jamie Lamb – CEO, Cedar House Life Change Center
• Jeanette Lopez – Executive Assistant to Chief Mark Kling, Rialto Police Department
• Dr. Alexandra Lopez-Vera – Director, Vida Medical Spanish Program at California University of Science and Medicine
• Carmen Millner – Owner, Kiddie Academy Child Care Learning Center
• Leticia Nava-Cruz – Director of Administrative Services and City Treasurer, City of Highland
• Kristin Bryan Pierce – President & CEO, Century 21 Lois Lauer Realty
• Diana Randolph – Vice President, Pathway from Boys to Men
• Heather Rawlings-Polk – Executive Director, Rancho Cucamonga Chamber of Commerce
• Juana Sotelo – Chairperson, Women of Steel Local 8599, United Steelworkers
• Alisha Stanly – CFO, Enterprise Building & 320 Premier Hall
• Patricia Williams – Founder & Executive Director, Angels’ Closet Charities
• Arlinda Wilson – Survivor Specialist, California State University, San Bernardino

2025 Senate District 29 Woman of the Year: Ana Gonzalez

This year, Ana Gonzalez was named the 2025 Woman of the Year for her tireless advocacy and leadership in environmental justice. As Executive Director of the Center for Community Action
and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ), Ana has championed policies that promote clean air, water, and healthier communities. Her dedication to intersectional advocacy has empowered marginalized communities and fostered meaningful change.

“Ana’s work in environmental justice has transformed lives and ensured that community voices are heard in key decision-making processes,” said Senator Reyes. “Her leadership is an inspiration, and we are proud to honor her as our 2025 Woman of the Year.”

Ana also serves on the South Coast AQMD’s Environmental Justice Advisory Group and the California Transportation Commission’s Interagency Equity Advisory Committee, working to advance policies that protect vulnerable communities. A proud graduate of Cal State San Bernardino, she has spent nearly three decades uplifting the Inland Valley through advocacy, organizing, and leadership.

State Capitol Recognition

On March 11, 2025, Ana was honored at the California Senate’s Woman of the Year Ceremony in Sacramento, where she was recognized for her unwavering commitment to justice and
community empowerment.  Senator Reyes extends her deepest gratitude to all the honorees for their service and dedication to making the 29th Senate District and the entire Inland Empire a better place.

For photos and more information about the 2025 Women of Distinction and Woman of the Year, visit https://sd29.senate.ca.gov/news/inland-empire-women-distinction-honored-senator-eloisegomez-reyes.

ONTARIO, CA – Born and raised in the United States, Ghattas Khoury has always felt a deep connection to his Jordanian heritage. At Chaffey Adult School’s 4th Annual Multicultural Fair on March 8, he volunteered at a booth showcasing traditional clothing, books and artifacts from Jordan and the Arab region.

His message was simple yet powerful: “Be proud of where you came from, and be proud of where you’re at.”

The booth was one of dozens celebrating cultures from around the world as Chaffey Adult School’s 5th Street campus transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural exchange. Featuring live performances, international cuisine, art and interactive displays, the Multicultural Fair – the first since pre-pandemic 2020 – provided a space for community members to embrace diversity, learn from one another, and strengthen the bonds that make the Inland Empire such a dynamic region.

“The Multicultural Fair is more than a celebration – it’s an opportunity to foster understanding and appreciation for the incredible range of cultures represented in our community,” said Dr. George Matamala, Principal of Chaffey Adult School. “Every year we’ve hosted this event, it has brought people together, reminding us that our differences make us stronger. This was especially true this year, after a five-year hiatus.”

Organized by Dr. Nora Hourani-Farraj, Assistant Principal of Chaffey Adult School and Director of Community Relations for the Chaffey Joint Union High School District, the fair also featured a Community Resource Fair, connecting attendees with organizations such as House of Ruth, Inland Empire Health Plan, Molina Healthcare and the Mexican Consulate.

“The diversity of our community is our greatest strength,” said Dr. Hourani-Farraj. “This event is a way for us to celebrate that diversity while also providing valuable resources to those who need them.”

Chaffey Adult School serves more than 3,000 students annually, offering a range of educational opportunities to support lifelong learning and career advancement. The Multicultural Fair reflects the school’s commitment to embracing different backgrounds and perspectives, ensuring that all students and community members feel seen, valued, and supported.

“The Chaffey Joint Union High School District is proud to support events that promote inclusion and cultural awareness,” said Dr. Mathew Holton, Superintendent of Chaffey Joint Union High School District. “Now, more than ever, it is essential to come together as a community and celebrate the rich traditions that make us who we are.”

From the rhythmic beats of traditional music to the flavors of global cuisine, the Multicultural Fair was a testament to the power of cultural exchange. As attendees left with a newfound appreciation for their neighbors’ heritage, one message rang clear: celebrating diversity strengthens the entire community.

For more information about Chaffey Adult School and its programs, visit https://cas.cjuhsd.net.

Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Jamahd Jones, from San Bernardino, California, mans the helm on the bridge of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) in the Pacific Ocean, March 15, 2025. Wayne E. Meyer is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

SACRAMENTO, CA —As college acceptance and financial aid letters arrive, California’s high school seniors and college students have a major opportunity through the CalKIDS program to ease their education costs. CalKIDS is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships for higher education. This statewide initiative, administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, provides eligible California public school students with CalKIDS Scholarships worth up to $1,500—helping them take the next step toward college or career training by easing financial barriers to higher education.

Eligible students can use their CalKIDS Scholarship Accounts for tuition and fees, books and supplies, and computer equipment. Since 2022, approximately $1 billion in CalKIDS Scholarships have been made available to more than 2 million of California’s public high school students.

To get the word out about this amazing program and ensure students and families are aware of and claim their CalKIDS Accounts, the ScholarShare Investment Board has established partnerships with high schools, school districts, community-based organizations, and financial aid directors at community colleges and universities across the state. Through a recent back-to-school campaign, these partnerships helped drive nearly 100,000 new scholarship claims in just four months.

“CalKIDS is an incredible resource for California families,” said State Treasurer Fiona Ma, chair of the ScholarShare Investment Board. “Claiming a CalKIDS Scholarship is the easiest step students can take on their path to higher education, whether that means college, trade schools, or technical and vocational schools. This investment is designed to support students, particularly those from historically underserved communities. We want every eligible student to claim their scholarship account and take full advantage of this opportunity.”

Claiming a CalKIDS Scholarship is quick and easy. Families simply need the student’s Statewide Student Identifier (SSID), a ten-digit number, which can be obtained by contacting their school directly. Once they have the SSID, parents or students can visit CalKIDS.org to check eligibility and claim a scholarship account in just minutes.

The funds can be used at accredited colleges, universities, trade schools, and career programs across the country. Once enrolled in a higher education program, students can log into their CalKIDS Account to request a distribution directly to their school to cover qualifying educational expenses.

For students like Samantha from Moreno Valley College, a CalKIDS Scholarship was a game-changer. “I felt very fortunate and less stressed … it was a huge help. I used the money for books and testing materials for school.”

“Studies show that students with just $500 or less set aside for college are three times more likely to attend college and four times more likely to graduate,” said Cassandra DiBenedetto, Executive Director. “CalKIDS Accounts are more than financial assistance—they’re an investment in students’ futures, and we want to give every one of these students a reason to believe in their path to higher education.”

With roughly 60% of California public school students eligible for a CalKIDS Scholarship and key college decision and financial aid deadlines approaching, now is the time for students and families to check their eligibility and claim their scholarship account.

For more information on eligibility, scholarship amounts, and how to claim a CalKIDS Scholarship Account, visit CalKIDS.org.

About CalKIDS: The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is the nation’s largest child development account program, providing scholarships for higher education. Administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, and Chaired by State Treasurer Fiona Ma, the program is designed to promote the pursuit of higher education statewide by empowering families to build assets, nurture savings habits, and raise their educational aspirations. Eligible public school students can receive CalKIDS Scholarships worth up to $1,500 and every child born in California on or after July 1, 2022, is awarded a CalKIDS Scholarship worth up to $175, ensuring more families have the resources needed to support their children’s education. To learn more, visit CalKIDS.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Some believe in helping from a distance—Lifting as We Climb believes in showing up. This dynamic group is redefining what it means to serve, dedicating themselves to uplifting individuals through direct and meaningful acts of kindness. Their hands-on approach to compassion has earned them the prestigious Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award, a recognition given to those who embody the power of service in action.

Formed in 2024, Lifting as We Climb isn’t an organization seeking the spotlight or large-scale fundraising efforts. Instead, they focus on small, personal moments that make a lasting impact—offering a hand up, relieving a burden, or simply brightening someone’s day. Their work proves that change doesn’t always come from grand gestures; sometimes, it’s the quiet acts of kindness that create the biggest ripples.

The Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award celebrates those who lead with heart, and Lifting as We Climb exemplifies this spirit through their unwavering commitment to helping others. Their journey is a testament to the fact that true impact isn’t measured in applause, but in the lives forever changed by genuine care.

Other Award Honorees Include:

Philanthropist of the Year: Taraji P. Henson, Academy Award-nominated actress, producer, and mental health advocate

Humanitarian Award: Jon Pardi, Country music star and founder of the Starlight Fund

Dynamic Duo Award: Charisse Bremond Weaver and George Weaver

Women’s Global Icon Award: Academy Award®-Nominated Producer Chiara Tilesi

Community Champion Award: Michelle Decker

Nancy Varner Angel Award: Richard Jeske

Unsung Hero Award: Ginger Ontiveros

The 23rd Annual Awards Gala celebrates the resilience and achievements of those overcoming homelessness, domestic violence, and systemic barriers. The event honors leaders, advocates, and community partners who champion change and empower marginalized individuals.

The gala will feature client testimonials highlighting TFCF’s transformative impact, an awards ceremony, gourmet dining, and fundraising opportunities to support the foundation’s expanding programs. Social hour begins at 6:00 PM with the formal program at 7:00 PM.

Individual tickets, table sponsorships, and advertising opportunities in the souvenir program are available now at www.timeforchangefoundation.org.