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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) presented the Outstanding Community Partner Award in April to the Making Hope Happen Foundation for its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of local youth.

The Making Hope Happen Foundation, a local nonprofit that supports the educational mission of SBCUSD, has been a steadfast supporter of District schools and students, providing invaluable resources, mentorship programs and scholarships to help students succeed academically and personally. Their dedication to fostering hope and opportunity for young people in our community aligns perfectly with the mission and values of our school district, according to Superintendent Mauricio Arellano.

“We are thrilled to recognize the Making Hope Happen Foundation for its outstanding contributions to our schools and community,” Arellano said. “Their tireless efforts to uplift and empower our youth have made a lasting impact, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

The Making Hope Happen Foundation’s initiatives, including mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities and educational resources, have positively impacted countless students throughout San Bernardino and Highland. The Foundation’s commitment to fostering hope, resilience and academic success among local youth is truly commendable.

“We are honored to receive this award from San Bernardino City Unified,” said Foundation CEO Niki Dettman. “It is a testament to the dedication of our team and the incredible potential of the students we serve. We remain committed to supporting and empowering young people in our community.”

The award presentation ceremony took place at the April 16 Board of Education meeting, where representatives from the Making Hope Happen Foundation were recognized for their outstanding contributions.

About San Bernardino City Unified School District:

The San Bernardino City Unified School District is California’s eighth-largest school district and is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for college, career and life. With a focus on equity, excellence and empowerment, the District serves a diverse student population in the San Bernardino and Highland communities. For more information about SBCUSD, visit www.sbcusd.com and follow the District @SBCityUSD on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn.

About Making Hope Happen Foundation:

The Making Hope Happen Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and fostering hope in the San Bernardino community. Through mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities and educational resources, the foundation works to support the academic and personal growth of young people attending SBCUSD schools.

May Outstanding Achievement Awards Recognize District Students, Parents and Staff

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— In May, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Anton and Emmerton Elementary Schools, Shandin Hills Middle School and Cajon High School.

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the district’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Anton Elementary School, Principal Melanie McGrath:

Kindergartner Serenity Thompson is an Outstanding Student in the Dual Immersion Program. Thompson is a native English speaker who is quickly working towards fluency in Spanish while continuing to shine in both English and math. Thompson wants to grow up to be a veterinarian because she loves animals and wants to help them.

Kiran Samel is a fourth grader and Outstanding Student. Samel is a highly gifted scholar who consistently exceeds state standards in English and math. She is creative, humble, perseverant and works well with other students. She wants to help students be successful at school and improve mental health and plans to become a school counselor like her father.

Outstanding Grandparent Award winner Leonel Beiza supports the Anton school community by consistently attending special events and family nights. He volunteers whenever he’s asked, and he is always willing to answer any technology questions that come up.

Bilingual Clerk Teresa Sanchez Muniz goes above and beyond in all that she does. She is professional under all circumstances and keeps Anton running efficiently. She serves our parents, students, staff and community members with passion, commitment and dedication. According to the staff at Anton, she helps the school SHINE.

Bilingual Psychologist Dulcemaria Bec demonstrates emotional commitment and a deep sense of purpose for serving children with special needs. She is empathetic and compassionate as an advocate for students and their families. Her commitment to service is outstanding as she collaborates with parents, students, teachers and administrators to ensure our students receive the support they need.

Emmerton Elementary School, Principal Laura Ramos:
Mariana Rodriguez is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Rodriguez is a model Emmerton Eagle Scholar. She is a friend to all and is involved in Broadway Now and the District’s Expanded Learning Program. In the future, Rodriguez wants to be a third-grade teacher at Emmerton.

Fourth-grader Yuna Walsh is an Outstanding Student who has exhibited grit, determination and good citizenship as an Emmerton Eagle Scholar. She is involved with Broadway Now and the music program at school. Walsh would like to become a doctor and help people.

Outstanding Volunteer Award winner Adlemi Castillo is always willing to come support Emmerton Elementary, its students, families and staff. She has served for many years on the English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC), School Site Council, and PTO. According to Emmerton staff, Castillo helps make Emmerton a great place to learn.

Stacie Smith is an Instructional Tutor for learning and physically handicapped students and an Outstanding Classified Employee. Smith always goes above and beyond, even in the most challenging situations. She is a champion for Special Education students and also mentors new employees, providing the support they need to be successful.

Fourth-Grade Teacher Stefani Guzman is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Guzman is a dedicated teacher who always exhibits a positive attitude. She is a member of her site’s AVID Leadership Team. She tutors students to help them understand challenging concepts. She makes learning fun and does all that she can to support student learning.

Shandin Hills Middle School, Principal Dr. Persida Torres:
Seventh-grader Osvaldo Amaro Gildo is an Outstanding Student. With a flawless 4.0 GPA, Amaro Gildo is a model student and leader who excels in his studies and sets a high standard for his peers. He embodies the Spirit of Shandin Hills through his hard work, positive attitude and unwavering dedication to making the school a better place. He is interested in attending CalTech in Pasadena and pursuing a career in computer engineering or real estate development.

Cesar Burgueno is an eighth-grader and Outstanding Student. Burgueno is a shining star who has consistently exhibits resilience, determination and a strong commitment to excellence. From grades six to eight, Burgueno has demonstrated remarkable progress and achievement. For the first time, Burgueno has proudly secured a spot on the honor roll. He is interested in attending USC and majoring in either mechanical or construction engineering.

Teresa Negrete is an Outstanding Volunteer. From the moment Negrete became involved with Shandin Hills, it was clear that she was not just a passive observer, but an active participant in her children’s education. Whenever there’s a school event, you can count on her to be there and ready to volunteer in any capacity. She is the epitome of parental dedication and commitment.

Attendance Technician Francisca Rodriguez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. She has made an extraordinary impact since joining Shandin Hills at the start of the school year. She exceeds expectations, and her dedication to supporting diverse families is evident in her attentive approach to connecting them with crucial resources and delivering exceptional customer service.

Bilingual Math Teacher Marisol Montejano is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Beyond her academic duties, Montejano exemplifies dedication and passion for her students’ academic growth and takes a heartfelt interest in their overall well-being, building genuine, professional relationships with students and families. Her approachable nature and open communication foster trust and mutual respect.

Cajon High School, Principal Dr. Chris Jackson:
Alexandra “Alex” Gilbreth is a senior and an Outstanding Student. Alex Gilbreth is the embodiment of a committed Cowboy. She earned a 3.75 GPA, was a member of the aquatics program and this year served as the Associated Student Body president. Gilbreth is planning on studying Agricultural Marketing at Purdue University in the fall.

Senior Javier Cueto Sanchez is an Outstanding Student. He earned a 3.70 GPA, was a cross country athlete, a leader in the Cadet Corp program and completed the automotive technology pathway, having taken all three years worth of courses. Cueto Sanchez will be attending Loyola Marymount University in the fall to study business management and accounting.

Carrie and Keven Gilbreth are Cajon’s Outstanding Parents. The Gilbreths continually rise to the call for any and everything they are asked to do. They are an integral ingredient that comprises the secret sauce of what makes Cajon High the special place it is. With both of their children being Cowboy alumni at the conclusion of this year, the Cajon staff hope they will stay connected to the school community. Carrie Gilbreth has also served on the District’s Athletic Strategic Planning Committee and is a Cajon High grad.

Custodian II Maria Alvarado is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Not only does she possess an exemplary work ethic that results in impeccable craftsmanship in her duties, but she does it with the perpetually positive demeanor that helps set the tone for many members of the Cajon family. Cajon is grateful for the hard work and positive contribution that Alvarado makes on a daily basis.

Linked Learning Program Specialist Elizabeth Kackery is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Kackery is the embodiment of a bolt of lighting in her enthusiasm, energy and passion for her work. Her commitment to her pathway teammates goes well above the call of duty. She is constantly chasing the best possible systems and outcomes for students.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— In celebration of Fatherhood Well-being Month in June, San Bernardino Fatherhood is excited to announce its 2nd Annual Walter Beasley Jazz / R&B Concert: “A Tribute to Fathers,” scheduled for Saturday, June 29, 2024.

Walter Beasley, considered to be the highest selling full-time Professor/Recording Artist in modern history, is an award-winning alto/soprano saxophonist and singer, composer and producer. Since 1987 Walter has released 26 albums. He has been in the top 10 best-selling African American saxophonists in the world since 1998, winning several awards like the title of Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Artist of the Year in 2019 and Soul Tracks’ Instrumentalist of the Year award in 2023.

The opening act will be NOJAC, a local funk/soul band, which has performed all across Southern California. NOJAC has grown tremendously since their start in 2019 and is now comprised of 12 members, featuring an amazing horn section.

This special event serves as a fatherhood celebration and a fundraising initiative to sustain the vital work of San Bernardino Fatherhood in providing ongoing educational services and resources in communities. San Bernardino Fatherhood offers educational programs such as “24:7 Dad Fathering,” “Boot Camp for New Dads,” and “Understanding Dad for Moms,” and more.

The 2nd Annual Walter Beasley Jazz / R&B Concert: “A Tribute to Fathers”, will be held at the Indian Springs High School Performance Arts Center located at 650 N. Del Rosa Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92410. Doors will be open to the public at 5:30 p.m. The event starts at 6 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.com. The General Admission Seating is $25 per person and Premium Admission Seating is: $45 per person. Ticket purchases at the door will be: $45 per person for General Admission Seating and $55 per person for Premium Admission Seating. So, purchase your tickets early!

San Bernardino Fatherhood serves fathers and families of all demographics and economic backgrounds by providing educational services, resources and advocacy. For more information, visit: https://sbfatherhood.com/ or contact Ryan Berryman at (909) 567-9508.

RIVERSIDE, CA— Coinciding with Pride Month, Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D – Riverside) joined with federal, state, and local community leaders in celebrating the grand opening of the Inland Empire LGBTQ+ Resource Center (the Center), held at TruEvolution’s Project Legacy campus in Riverside.

“The Inland Empire LGBTQ+ Center is what we can accomplish when we meet the moment with bold ideas and when we dream big for the next generation,” said Assemblymember Cervantes, who is one of three co-founders of the Center. “I am proud to have secured $3.063 million in the 2023-24 state budget for this transformational center, and kickstart future investments directly to organizations that serve our LGBTQ+ community. Our collective work exemplifies the spirit of Pride in our fight for justice and equity!”

Powered by TruEvolution, the IE LGBTQ+ Resource Center will serve as a space for LGBTQ+ people and their allies to access community resources and establish networks of support and mentorship. A second location is anticipated to open in Southwest Riverside County in the future.

“At TruEvolution, we have always championed the health and human rights of LGBTQ+ individuals,” stated co-founder Gabriel Maldonado, CEO of TruEvolution. “This Center is a significant step forward in our ongoing mission to ensure that every person has access to the care, support, and opportunities they deserve. It stands as a testament to our resilience and our resolve to build a more inclusive community in the Inland Empire.”

Additionally, the funding secured by Assemblymember Cervantes will also support the creation of the Legacy Fund, which will invest in local LGBTQ+-serving organizations and expand access to resources in Southern California.

“This Center represents a commitment to our future, ensuring that the progress we make today will continue to uplift and empower LGBTQ+ residents in our region for generations to come,” said co-founder Jesse Melgar, advisory board member for Equality California. “It is an investment in our collective strength, resilience, and will serve as an important gathering space for members of the community.”

“Every person deserves to be seen and to live as their true, authentic selves,” added Assemblymember Cervantes, who is also the first LGBTQ+ Latina to serve as Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus. “I am happy to have delivered results for communities who have been marginalized and long left behind.”

More information about the Inland Empire LGBTQ+ Resource Center can be found at TruEvolution’s website.

Congratulations to the 21 graduates of the Millionaire Mind Kids 2024 Law and Justice Academy! This wonderful program is a collaboration between San Bernardino County Law and Justice agencies, San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, and San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools. It’s a fantastic initiative that equips young minds with valuable knowledge and skills related to law and justice.

The community liaison Paul Marsh was honored to attend the event and present certificates of recognition to both the students and volunteers.

A huge congratulations to all the graduates! The community is impressed with the youth’s dedication and hard work. We wish them the very best as they continue their education and set new and exciting goals for the future.

ONTARIO, CA— Game after game, A.C. Green showed up, setting a National Basketball Association record for durability and helping the Los Angeles Lakers to three world championships.

On Sunday night (June 30), Green will join four other legends – University of Southern California All-American and 15-year National Football League quarterback Rodney Peete, San Diego State and NFL superstar Marshall Faulk, baseball super-agent Scott Boras and reknowned sports photographer Andrew D. Bernstein – as the newest members of the California Sports Hall of Fame.

Roy Firestone (Hall of Fame Class of 2022) will be the Master of Ceremonies for the Inductee Gala, to be held at the Ontario Convention Center.

“A.C. Green was a true basketball Iron Man, never missing a regular season game over the course of a decade and a half while playing championship basketball and serving as one of the great role models for our youth. It is a privilege to welcome him as a Hall of Famer, an honor he has earned through his performance and the example he set,” said Christian Okoye, a former NFL star who founded the California Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.

Green was born in Portland, OR, and was a standout in basketball at Oregon State University, where he finished second in school history in rebounding and fourth in scoring and would eventually earn a place the Pac-12 Basketball Hall of Honor.

He was a first-round draft pick of the Lakers in 1985 and helped the team capture back-to-back titles in 1987 and 1988. He led the Lakers in rebounding for six of the eight years he was with the team and in 1990, was voted a starter for the Western Conference All Star Team.

Green spent time with the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks before returning to the Lakers for the 1999-2000 season, which culminated in another championship. He finished his career the following year with the Miami Heat.

Green’s missed just eight games during his career, amassing a record-setting streak of 1,192 consecutive games played between November 1986 and April 2001.

A devout Christian, Green established the A.C. Green Youth Foundation, which operates youth camps to promote abstinence until marriage. In 2011, he was awarded the Bobby Jones Award by Athletes in Action for character, leadership and faith in the world of basketball, in the home and the community. Green’s humanitarian efforts earned him a spot in the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame.

“Treat people the way you want to be treated. Character is doing the right thing even when no one is watching. Always be the best version of yourself,” Green said.

Tickets are still available for the California Sports Hall of Fame Gala at: https://californiasportshalloffame.org/induction-ceremony-golf-event/. The event starts with a reception at 4 p.m., followed by a dinner and induction ceremony beginning at 5 p.m.

RIALTO, CA— Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Eta Nu Omega Chapter of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, hosted its Annual Graduate Recognition Scholarship Brunch at the Sierra Lakes Golf Course in Fontana, CA. One of our own, Daima Calhoun, Chief Deputy District Attorney of Riverside County, gave the keynote address titled “The Uphillers,” in which she inspired our graduates with three nuggets to carry with them on their educational journey. She stated, “Uphillers should Work hard, Dream big, and Don’t be afraid of failure.”

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Eta Nu Omega Chapter awarded two outstanding community members the Community Service Award: The Honorable Judge Joshlyn Pulliman of Riverside County and Dr. Jamal Myrick, of University of Riverside (UCR), with the Educational Leadership Community Service Award.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Eta Nu Omega Chapter and The Inland Ivy Foundation awarded 22 students from San Bernardino and Riverside County School Districts $34,000 in scholarships to continue their educational journey. In addition to the Eta Nu Omega and the Inland Ivy Foundation scholarships, there were specialized scholarships awarded to the students: Memorial Scholarships personalized by members of Alpha Kappa Sorority Inc., Eta Nu Omega Chapter in memory of their loved ones. The six memorials honored were: Lisa Blacksher, Gracie Mae Poole, Harriette Moore, Keturah McEwen, Hazel Hawkins-Russell, and Irma L. Sutton. Specialized scholarships (Honey Do) in the name of the spouses of the women of Eta Nu Omega Chapter and four HBCU scholarships were also awarded.

April Outstanding Achievement Awards Recognize District Students, Parents and Staff

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—In April, the Board of Education presented the Outstanding Achievement Awards to students, parents and staff of Mt. Vernon and Muscoy Elementary Schools, M.L. King Jr. Middle School and San Andreas High School.

The Board recognizes Outstanding Student Award winners to honor excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, citizenship and most improvement. The Board also presents the Outstanding Parent/Grandparent/Volunteer Award and Outstanding Employee Award to individuals who embody the District’s dedication to student achievement and well-being.

Mt. Vernon Elementary School, Principal Sylvette Del Llano:
Gabriel Rios is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Rios shines as a beacon of academic excellence and outstanding citizenship. Beyond consistently achieving stellar grades, Rios is also kind, helpful, and he follows the rules. Rios wants to become a surgeon.

Dalilah Reyes Chiman is a sixth-grader and Outstanding Student. Dalilah stands out for her exceptional academic achievements and citizenship. She demonstrates commitment to her studies and she earns praise for her outstanding grades. Dalilah also has a kind and helpful nature. Dalilah is working towards her goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Outstanding Parent Award winner Rubi Barrios-Vallejo is a dedicated and proud mother of two children. She plays a pivotal role in her children’s academic journey while maintaining strong involvement as a parent committed to the betterment of the Mt. Vernon Elementary community.

Attendance Verifier Viviana Enciso epitomizes excellence in her role as an attendance verifier and as an out-of-class secretary. Her exceptional work performance is characterized by her tireless work ethic and remarkable attention to detail.

Fifth-Grade Teacher Donna Kosman constantly embodies the spirit of service and leadership. Donna fosters a dynamic learning environment where students can explore their interests and develop critical skills. Her tireless efforts and commitment exemplifies her outstanding professionalism and dedication to excellence.

Muscoy Elementary School, Principal Dr. Dana Jamison:
Eduardo Sandoval Soto is a third-grader and Outstanding Student. Eduardo is hardworking and dedicated to his academics. He is kind, friendly and has a loving heart. He loves to make people smile and laugh. And Eduardo loves school so much that his career goal is to be a teacher.

Daniel Vazquez is a fourth-grader and Outstanding Student. Daniel is being honored for academic excellence and citizenship. He is a shining example of a student who has grit and constantly strives for improvement. He is kind and goes out of his way to make others feel welcome. Daniel dreams about becoming a paleontologist.

Outstanding Grandparent Award winner Leticia Murrieta has displayed unwavering dedication to the education and well-being of Muscoy students. Her grandson, Daniel, was honored as an Outstanding Student Award winner. Leticia invests many hours to support Muscoy Elementary by attending meetings and family events, and she still offers to do more.

Bilingual Office Assistant/Health Aide Karen Cordova is an Outstanding Classified Employee. She excels at providing excellent health services to students, and she engages families so students can thrive. Just this school year, Karen has set up more than 400 Hazel Health telemedicine visits so Muscoy students receive the medical care they need.

Fifth-Grade Teacher Laura Cortez Cuevas is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. As Muscoy’s English Language Facilitator, Laura has assisted in the reclassification of over 34 students as English Proficient. She has helped to increase fifth-grade academic scores by analyzing student data and planning with her team how to increase student achievement.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, Principal Ernesto Calles:
Seventh-grader Christopher Martinez is an Outstanding Student. He is a true representation of King scholars, showing exceptional character inside and outside the classroom. He is the ASB president, where he serves and leads the entire King Middle School student body. Martinez wants to attend university after high school.

Brittanny Melchor is an eighth-grader and Outstanding Student. Melchor excels in academics, citizenship and art. She is respectful, responsible and helps to provide a safe learning environment, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA, which earned her recognition at the King Middle School academic award celebration in February. Melchor is focused on her goal of attending university after graduation.

Lydia Urrutia is an Outstanding Parent. She has been a positive partner with King Middle School. School staff appreciate Urrutia’s communication with administration and parents via the School Site Council, and she can always be depended upon to provide input to support the success of King scholars.

Custodian I Sam Arenivar is an Outstanding Classified Employee. Arenivar consistently demonstrates pride in his work. His enthusiasm and passion for upholding King’s values and fostering a positive learning environment serve as an inspiration to those around him.

History and Social Science Teacher Robert Almanza is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Every Monday, he prepares and produces student-created videos to support the open communication and information that is vital to students and staff. Almanza’s leadership, including serving as department chair, exemplifies his commitment to students and staff.

San Andreas High School (SAHS), Principal Dorie Stratton:
Alaysha Nash is a senior and an Outstanding Student. Nash is involved in everything from the Student Leadership Advisory Council to dual enrollment in college and several extracurricular activities. She always has a smile on her face and is happy to help as needed. Nash plans to be a social worker because she loves helping people.

Senior David Renteria is an Outstanding Student. He is an outstanding scholar who excels in academics and citizenship and is a standout student in the Health Pathway Program. Renteria is a quiet leader, always ready to lend a helping hand, and actively engaged in extracurricular activities and leadership roles. He will be attending a certified nursing assistant program in June and hopes to become a Physical Therapist in the future.

Amber Ploehn is an Outstanding Parent, with two children attending Cajon High and one at San Andreas. Ploehn is active in the School Site Council and serves as the school’s District Advisory Council representative. She is always ready to help as needed, even bringing in lunch treats.

Bilingual Attendance Technician Cristina Topete Velazquez is an Outstanding Classified Employee. She is a very resourceful problem solver. Velazquez helps ensure that students are in class daily and connects families to important resources in the community. She has been an integral part of the San Andreas attendance team, helping to launch the Attendance Campaign.

San Andreas Teacher Rawan Fakhoury is an Outstanding Certificated Employee. Fakhoury’s tireless efforts have resulted in a rich and positive school culture where inclusivity and respect are paramount. She has transformed countless lives and empowered students to reach their full potential.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- The San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Anthony Parnther, will present their annual concert under the stars with fireworks on Saturday, June 6, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. on the football field of San Bernardino Valley College. Will you be there?

Explained Maestro Parnther, “Our annual July concert has quickly become a community staple as well as our largest crowd of the year. It’s great to see so many people from throughout the Inland Empire joined together as we celebrate America and put on this spectacular show!”

Los Angeles-based vocal group DC6 will join with the Symphony to perform the music of The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz, and Wicked as well as traditional Patriotic fare culminating in Tchaikovsky’s bombastic 1812 Overture performed to a fireworks display.

This concert will also see a world record breaking piccolo attempt as players from all over the state have been invited to participate in performing John Phillip Sousa’s “The Stars and Stripes Forever” at the concert. The record – 189 – previously set July 4, 2016 at the Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas, Texas.

Symphony piccoloist Kathleen Dyer is leading the charge to break the record.

“It has been an absolute joy to receive the registrations – the enthusiasm is contagious – and more will be accepted all month long!” explained Dyer.

The Symphony is also seeking to welcome more Veterans than ever before to this annual event and hopes you will want to partner with them to make this happen.

The Symphony has been honored to welcome thousands of Service Members to their concerts through a longtime partnership with VetTix which coordinates donated tickets to vetted members of all branches of currently-serving Military and Veterans, as well as immediate family of troops KIA.

While the Symphony-VetTix partnership applies to all concerts, the annual concert under the stars is held at an especially relevant location for the requested support.

The San Bernardino Valley College Veteran’s Resource Center provides assistance through education, certification and guidance to active duty, reserve, and veterans and their dependents in achieving their educational objectives and promotes the retention, graduation, and transfer of military veteran students and their dependents. They offer tutoring, mentorship, VA benefits assistance, mental health counselling, free books and supplies, and much more.

Shared District Chancellor Diana Z. Rodriguez. “This event is a fantastic opportunity to bring our community together in celebration and unity. We look forward to welcoming our military veterans to join us. Their service and dedication inspire us, and we are honored to celebrate Independence Day alongside them. This evening will be an unforgettable blend of live music, connection, and community pride.”

The concert begins at 7:30 pm, but the public is invited to arrive by 5 p.m. to take part in the College’s annual SUMMERFEST which will include information on the Veteran’s Resource Center, as well as many other educational opportunities, kids activities, campus tours, and a number of food trucks. Concert attendees may also bring their own picnic baskets into the stadium for the concert.

Members of the public who wish to fund a $10 General Admission ticket for one or more of our local heroes, may visit the Symphony Sponsorship Page, click on “Click to Make a Gift,” and select “Seats for Service Personnel” from the drop down menu. Donations may also be mailed to the Symphony at PO Box 109, San Bernardino, CA 92402 (be sure to indicate your check is for Seats for Service Personnel) or made via credit card by phone to (909) 381-5388.

All donations will be recognized at the July 6th Concert and in concert program books for the following 12 months.

“Once again, Maestro Parnther has curated a concert that will exceed expectations! This annual evening under the stars has never failed to bring the entire community together to share in the uniting power of music,” declared Symphony Board of Directors President Donna Marie Minano.

Tickets, Location Details, and Piccolo Registration

Table seating tickets for “America, the Beautiful” are available at $30-$100 per seat and may be purchased online at www.sanbernardinosymphony.org or by phone at (909) 381-5388 Monday through Friday. General admission lawn seats are $10 per person with children under 12 free. General admission ticketholders are encouraged to bring low lawn chairs or blankets.

San Bernardino Valley College is located at 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino. Free, lighted parking is available throughout the campus. General admission tickets will be on sale at the event.

Piccoloists who register, rehearse, and participate in the performance of “The Stars and Stripes Forever” will receive General Admission tickets for themselves and their families.

Assigned table seating tickets for “America, the Beautiful” are available at $30-$100 per seat and may be purchased online at www.sanbernardinosymphony.org or by phone at (909) 381-5388 Monday through Friday. General admission lawn seats are $10 per person with children under 12 free. General admission ticketholders are encouraged to bring low lawn chairs or blankets.

San Bernardino Valley College is located at 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino. Free, lighted parking is available throughout the campus on concert day. General admission tickets will be on sale at the event.

Piccoloists who register, rehearse, and participate in the performance of “The Stars and Stripes Forever” will receive General Admission tickets for themselves and their families. For more information or to register, visit the Symphony webpage.

By Bo Tefu, Joe W. Bowers Jr., and Lila Brown | California Black Media  

A recent survey by the Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies (IGS), commissioned by the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund, indicates that over three-quarters (78%) of California’s registered voters are highly likely to participate in the upcoming general election on November 5. However, the survey of 5,095 voters highlights significant disparities among different voter demographics.

White voters show the highest likelihood of voting at 89%, compared to 66% for Black voters, 70% for Latino voters, and 62% for Asian American voters. Age differences are also notable, with 89% of voters aged 65 or older likely to vote, compared to just 60% of those aged 18-29.

The primary motivation for voters is the Presidential election, with 70% citing it as their reason for voting. Other significant factors include supporting specific issues (66%), fulfilling civic duty (63%), and protecting democracy (60%).

For those less likely to vote, dissatisfaction with Presidential candidates is a major deterrent, cited by 40%. Additionally, 36% are discouraged by the influence of special interests and big money.

John Kim, President and CEO of Catalyst California, emphasizes the importance of understanding voter motivations to address these disparities. “Knowing what is motivating California voters to participate in elections, and to what degree, is key to understanding our democratic systems,” he said. “This state has made strides in recent years to make voting more accessible. Yet the racial disparities that persist are a call to action for advocates and state officials to work together to address continuing structural impediments.”

Christian Arana of the Latino Community Foundation points out that investments in voter education are essential for a well-informed electorate capable of influencing state policies.

Eric Schickler, IGS co-director, notes that while overall engagement is high, the significant gaps in voter interest across different demographics highlight the need for continued efforts to mobilize underrepresented groups. “The big gaps across racial and ethnic subgroups and age cohorts underscore that interest in this election is far from universal, and that dissatisfaction with the two major party candidates may be a substantial obstacle in mobilizing turnout to the level seen in 2020.”