Happily Divorced And After

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.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

For those of you who are not paying attention or have not grasped the latest announcements, you are going to be eaten alive. Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? [Mark 8:1-18]. Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you [Proverbs 4:27] because your life depends on it. Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance [Proverbs 1:5]. Stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place and to stand before the Son of Man [Luke 21:36].

In these days of quite obvious prophetic fulfillment, the Rapture and the Seven-Year Tribulation, also known as the 70th Week of Daniel, appear to be right upon our very doorstep. The devil’s puppets are operating full force in the religious realms, the political realms, the news realms, the financial realms, the medical realms, the educational realms, the social media realms, the entertainment realms, the sports realms, the weather manipulating realms, and in what has become painfully obvious, the evil globalist realms. These mega-wealthy, evil globalist creatures openly brag about the sinister plans they have for you and for me.

Consider the now-famous words of Klaus Schwab and Yuval Noah Harari. For example, “You will own nothing and like it,” and “Humans are nothing more than useless eaters that are hackable.” Those two maleficent wholeheartedly support transhumanism and the globalists’ UN Agenda 2030 to depopulate the world by about seven and one half billion people.

Satan puppets are tooting their horns. They are telling us. They are showing us. They are freely announcing it on the news. They are not hiding it anymore. The announcements that are being made are clear on what’s about to happen. Pray for discernment, because if you are not grasping these announcements that are being made, you will be deceived. The veil has been pulled backed, and the announcements have been made. Time to Decide! Christ or the Mark of the Beast!

Think about it! Choose carefully! [Joshua 24:15]. Keep in mind, “Resistance will cost you. Submission will cost you more.

For the consequences for those who resist, DO NOT receive the Mark of the Beast, who refuse to worship the image will be killed. [Revelation 13:15]. But fear not them which kill the body but are not able to kill the soul but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in Hell [Matthew 10:28].

For those who choose Christ “have gotten the victory and will be resurrected and reign with Christ for 1,000 years. [Revelation 15:1-3; Revelation 20:4].

The consequences for those who submit, WHO receive the Mark of the Beast, are dire and eternal. [Revelation 14:9-11] provides a vivid and sobering description of the fate that awaits them.

A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives its mark on their forehead or on their hand, they, too, will drink the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment will rise for ever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.” [Revelation 19:15-20].

Anyone who takes the Mark of the Beast will spend eternity in Hell.

Theologically, this judgment reflects the ultimate consequence of idolatry and rebellion against God. By receiving the mark, you are making a conscious choice to reject God and worship the beast. This decision is not a trivial one; it signifies a deep-seated allegiance and commitment to the forces of evil. As such, the judgment is both just and warranted. [Revelation 13:16-17].

The warning of Scripture is clear. Take the Beast Mark during the tribulation and you will be eternally condemned.

The call is to remain faithful to God, resist the allure of the beast, and endure in faith, knowing that your ultimate reward is eternal life with Christ. Be like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who refused to worship Nebuchadnezzar’s image, facing consequences but standing firm in their faith. [Daniel 3].

Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. [Revelation 2:10].

The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?  [Psalms 118:6].

God promises redemption from death. Eternal life and freedom from the fear of death. [Hosea 13:14;].

Standing Firm in Faith!

Then I saw thrones, and seated on them were those to whom the authority to judge was committed. Also, I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for the testimony of Jesus and for the Word of God, and those who had not worshiped the Beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ for a thousand years. [Revelation 20:4; James 1:12].

After this I heard what seemed to be the loud voice of a great multitude in Heaven, crying out, “Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for His judgments are true and just; for He has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality and has avenged on her the blood of his servants.” Once more they cried out, “Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up forever and ever.” And the twenty-four elders and the four living creatures fell down and worshiped God who was seated on the throne, saying, “Amen. Hallelujah!” And from the throne came a voice saying, “Praise our God, all you His servants, you who fear Him, small and great.”  [Revelation 19:1-21].

The Announcements Have Been Made. Time to Decide – Christ or the Mark of the Beast!

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.

By Alyssa Hall

When he was younger, Grenada native, Christon Arthur remembers his mother telling stories about her childhood and how she was kicked out of school in third grade. Not because she was a bad child or not intelligent, but because she was a girl and her school thought she should be at home and domesticated.

Arthur was very close to his late mother, whom he called his inspiration for pursuing the field of education. From a young age Arthur was determined to become a teacher so that what happened to his mother would never happen to anyone again.

Since July 1, 2024, Arthur has served as La Sierra University’s sixth president. He is the university’s first Black president since the school was founded in 1922. La Sierra University is a private, Seventh-day Adventist university. Prior to his appointment at La Sierra, Arthur was the provost of Andrews University in Michigan.

“Being the first anything could be daunting, could be challenging, but at the same time, it’s an opportunity,” Arthur said.

“This is Southern California. One of the more progressive parts of the country. La Sierra, is one of the more progressive universities within the private sector, and then it took us 103 years? You see it as an opportunity to be able to do good work, and to say, you give us the chance, and we will surpass your expectations,” Arthur continued.

Arthur’s journey to success wasn’t without trials, but as he looks back, he’s happy they occurred. When Arthur was a high school teacher in Grenada, there was a position open for principal that he and his colleagues were certain he was going to receive. However, it went to another individual and Arthur was devastated.

“I was sure I was going to get it. Before the end of the year, I got a call from this person saying, ‘we see your work. We see you. We know what you do. We want to provide you a scholarship to go to graduate school,” Arthur recalled.

But, if Arthur had received that job, he would have never attended graduate school and gone on to complete his doctorate, and then become a faculty member at Tennessee State.

“Not getting that job was the biggest blessing [that] ever happened to me. ” Arthur said.

As the Trump administration dismantles programs that promote diversity, equity and inclusion, and others that threaten the identities of marginalized communities,  Arthur wants to assure staff and students that La Sierra University is a welcoming place to all, “There’s a place for you,” he said.

“I want that to sort of be, not simply a tagline, not a narrative. I want it to become part of our core. You’re welcome here…we have this grand table, and there’s a place for you at the table.” Arthur explained.

In the last seven months as president, Arthur has been laying the foundation, building relationships and having meaningful and impactful conversations with the community including the Riverside County Office of Education and The 100 Black Men of Inland Empire, Inc.

Arthur shared that he has been in conversation with the 100 Black Men because the group stands for Black excellence and he wants to be a part of combating the negative and stereotypical image that society sometimes has of Black people.

“I want La Sierra to be part of that story, so that our young people can know there’s a place for you at La Sierra University. There’s a place for you to come and to thrive,” Arthur said. “So, we [are] creating those relationships, creating those pathways to say to young people, ‘there is an alternative path, and we’ll help you find it and help you thrive.’”

When it comes to the future, La Sierra University is working on their strategic plan for the next three years. According to Arthur, articulating the university’s core purpose, values, and what makes them unique and distinct is important. Part of their strategic thinking is to increase their student population to 5,000 students in 10 years.  The university’s fall 2023 enrollment numbers were 1,614.

“For fall 2025, we have this slogan, this tagline, this goal, fall 2025 and all 500 new freshmen. It will be the largest freshman class in 14 years,” Arthur said.

“We’re going to stretch ourselves. And sure, they’re ambitious [goals], but they’re attainable. If you can reach your goal without stretching, it’s probably not a lofty enough goal. Your goal should keep you up at night,” Arthur continued.

Publisher’s Commentary by Wallace Allen IV

A fight between two students at Jehue Middle School, located in the Rialto Unified School District, has resulted in a recommendation for felony charges against one student and misdemeanor charges against the other.

The fight evolved in a classroom with other students and a substitute teacher present. Witnesses of the event agree that one of the participants began the show by using a water gun to shoot water on several students, and that one of the people hit by the water had an issue with not only the water splashing, but also something about a pencil.

A real physical fight quickly developed from the loud arguing between the two students, one, a small-in-stature female and the other, a much bigger in height and weight male. The fight lasted long enough for anyone who saw the viral video to wonder, “Where is the teacher?” After about 15 seconds of video, the female student was slammed onto a desk and apparently rendered unconscious. As several students went to the aid of the fallen warrior, the question about the teacher’s presence was answered in that you could hear her voice, not addressing the incident or checking the status of the fallen, apparently unconscious student.

The fight provides another level of concern when it is revealed that the female combatant is Black and the male is Brown. The N-word was used by the male fighter, as well as by some other students! As these children wallow in the racist terminology, they have no knowledge of the fact that most of them in the room would have been forced to use the back doors and drink from separate water fountains in Mississippi during the 1950s Jim Crow Era! Furthermore, they, Black and Brown, are equally subject to being picked up and deported by ICE during the present-day Trump era!

Yet some Black and Brown spoke-stars are able to discern the differences between Black and Brown folks enough to promote the ‘they are not like us’ aspect of the relationship. Who does that line of thinking really help? Justifying the divide between Black and Brown people is a tool that benefits fascism and white superiority!

Felonies and misdemeanors are not solutions for the children who drink the poison Kool-aid that encourages violence as a solution to chaos and confusion. Our children need to be protected and nourished!

The students who fought and who witnessed the fight, plus the teacher who was in the room before and during, should all be required to participate in counseling designed to manage and deescalate anger.

By Angela M. Coggs

On March 15, 2025, in Rancho Cucamonga, CA NFL player Alexander Mattison and the IAMGIFTED Foundation hosted the Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event at the Wellness Ranch Equine Assisted Therapy Center. The family-friendly gathering brought the community together to promote mental health awareness in a fun and welcoming environment.

Mattison, a proud San Bernardino native and San Bernardino High School alumnus, took center stage at the event, sharing his personal journey with mental health struggles. He spoke candidly about-facing past challenges without realizing their impact, crediting mentors Pastor Mark Thornton and his aunt, Dr. Angela Mattison-Brantley, for helping him shift his perspective and embrace a positive path forward. With heartfelt gratitude, Mattison praised Dr. Mattison-Brantley for her unwavering support and guidance.

“At IAMGIFTED Foundation, our purpose is to empower and uplift young minds by providing them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to reach their full potential,” said Niki Dettman, Chief Executive Officer at Making Hop e Happen Foundation and IAMGIFTED Foundation Board Member. “Today’s event truly highlights the power of community, collaboration, and giving back.  We are thankful to Wellness Ranch Therapy and the many sponsors and vendors who supported us.”

Attendees embraced the western theme by donning cowboy hats, boots, and other ranch-inspired attire. Those who participated in the theme were entered into a raffle to win an exciting prize, adding a fun and engaging element to the day.

The event, sponsored by Andre Reed Foundation, Awareness Training, Bank of America, Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Carl’s Jr., CIA33 Photography, Creative Kingdom, Cutey Cookies, Goody’s Original Popcorn, Homecooked Meals by Mindy, The Parlor Pizzeria, and SoCAL Fitness and Massage Therapy. It was a lively celebration filled with memorable moments. Mattison actively mingled with guests, signing autographs, posing for photos, and even joining the crowd on the dance floor for the stretching exercise and when the line dance songs started to play. His genuine enthusiasm and energy created a welcoming atmosphere, making it hard to believe this was the IAMGIFTED Foundation’s first wellness event.

“The event at the Wellness Ranch with the Equine Assistance Therapy with Alexander Mattison was absolutely amazing, it was amazing. The kids, the families, the professionals…it was for everybody,” exclaimed County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Troy Mondragon. “Coming here today was a joy for us (Commissioner Contreras). This event saves lives. The way they are demonstrating what mental health can be, how we can live with it and have fun, and that everybody has a gift. That was the message here and it resonated with every single person.”

Mattison’s dedication to his hometown is nothing short of inspiring. Since joining the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings, he has consistently given back to his community. He hosts an annual football camp at San Bernardino High School, providing local kids with mentorship, skills training, and inspiration. Additionally, he sponsors scholarships and personally presents monthly Student of the Month awards to deserving students in the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD).

Mattison’s commitment to showing up in person makes a lasting impact on the students he recognizes. His warm smile, approachable personality, and unwavering dedication have earned him a special place in the hearts of his community. “We are very proud that he (Mattison) is from San Bernardino,” said County of San Bernardino Behavioral Health Commissioner Eloisa Contreras.

Mattison sincerely spoke to the attendees straight from the heart: “You were born with a gift. You have to find it, embrace it and use it to shed light on the world. If you can be a little bit of light in somebody’s dark times, pay it forward and bring them to the light. We can all make this place and world a brighter place. Find your gift within. You’re not alone and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, find your gift and let it shine.”

The Wild, Wild Wellness Ranch event was a powerful reminder that mental health awareness can be addressed in a positive, uplifting way — and Alexander Mattison continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, on and off the field, for the San Bernardino community and beyond.

Alexander Mattison is an American professional football running back for the Miami Dolphins of the National Football Leagues (NFL).