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HIGHLAND, CA— Rep. Pete Aguilar announced $2,500,000 of federal funding he secured for the Santa Ana River Enhanced Stormwater Recharge Project. This project will increase the amount of storm water from the Santa Ana River that can be captured and recharged from the Seven Oaks Dam. The water captured by this project in the San Bernardino Basin will help approximately 400,000 residents. With recent storms battering the Inland Empire, this project will play a key role in our region’s long-term drought resiliency and water-conservation efforts.

“Protecting our water supply is one of the most important issues we face as a region, state and nation,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “With the latest surge of storms, California’s drought has been cut in half, but this is not a sustainable solution to our drought. This project will benefit over 400,000 people in our region and play a key role in our long-term conservation and drought resiliency efforts.”

“San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water District is excited to move forward with this critical water supply project as it demonstrates our commitment to collaboration, regional partnership, innovation, and perseverance in getting hard things done. This project is so unique because of its many integrated benefits; first and foremost it captures much-needed local stormwater during wet years for use during future dry years; it improves the long-term water quality of our groundwater; it supports and actually enhances endangered species habitat; and finally it serves as the foundation of our long-term climate resilience strategy for the upper Santa Ana River watershed,” said Heather Dyer, CEO/General Manager of the regional water agency which has been ensuring water supply to the area since 1954. “This is a generational investment in water infrastructure that will support the changing needs of our region’s population and environment for decades to come. I’m honored to be part of it,” she added.

“In a state like California where every drop of water is precious, cooperative management is essential. As a partner with San Bernardino Valley for more than five decades, Western Water is proud that our region is leading by example and working together,”said Western Water’s Board President Mike Gardner. “Local projects like the Enhanced Recharge Project are needed to capture and store more stormwater when we get it, so we can stretch our resources during longer, hotter and drier weather conditions.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— As the country continues marking the 50-year anniversary of Title IX, which paved the way for women to finally pursue athletic and academic opportunities at the next level, close to 100 girls from high schools across San Bernardino and Highland gathered for the official kickoff of the newly formed Women’s Flag Football League, which was held on Friday, April 7 at the San Bernardino High School football stadium. The evening included a demonstration game with 12 professional female players and an appearance by the Los Angeles Rams, with the team providing team t-shirts, eye black, and USA Football flag belts to players.

The flag football league is part of San Bernardino City Unified School District’s (SBCUSD’s) Expanded Learning—Sunrise/CAPS program and was started in partnership with Athletes for Life (AFL) and former NFL Pro Bowl running back Greg Bell. SBCUSD is the first Inland Empire school district to launch a flag football program for high school girls.

In December 2022, the CIF Federated Council and the state of California elected to make flag football a sanctioned varsity sport for girls starting in 2025. SBCUSD is getting a leg up on the competition by starting its own flag football league for girls.

“We’re always looking for expanded learning activities that allow our students to experience new opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach to them,” said Expanded Learning Director Ann Pearson. “Team sports expose our students to various valuable lessons that will help them now and in the future.”

This summer, AFL will also host its 23rd Annual IAM GIFTED summer football camps with San Bernardino High School alum and Minnesota Viking running back Alexander Mattison, a former camp attendee. The camp is free for all local San Bernardino County youth ages 6 and up. For more information and to sign up to attend, please visit www.AthletesforLife.org or call Barbara Nelson at (888) 675-8884.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) is proud to announce the return of one of its own, Mauricio Arellano, as the new superintendent of California’s seventh-largest school district. Arellano, a native of San Bernardino, attended District schools and returns on April 17 to lead SBCUSD as superintendent.

“We are thrilled to have Mauricio back in San Bernardino,” said Board of Education President Dr. Scott Wyatt. “His experience and expertise will be invaluable as we work to ensure that every student in San Bernardino and Highland has access to a quality education.”

Arellano’s career in education spans more than three decades, and he has held a variety of leadership roles in Southern California school districts. Most recently, he served as superintendent of neighboring Redlands Unified, where he oversaw significant improvements in academic achievement.

As superintendent, Arellano is responsible for setting a clear and compelling vision for SBCUSD, including goals and strategies for improving student achievement, creating safer schools, and engaging families and the community. The superintendent oversees the District’s budget, staffing, and facilities, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and efficiently to support teaching and learning.

“I am honored to return to San Bernardino, the place where I grew up and went to school,” Superintendent Arellano said. “I am excited to work with our dedicated educators, staff, and community partners to provide our students with the best possible education and abundant opportunities for success.”

A reception to welcome Arellano and his family back to the community will be held on Tuesday, April 18 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Dr. Margaret Hill Community Room, located at 777 North F Street in San Bernardino.

Arellano was selected by the SBCUSD Board of Education in February 2023 in a unanimous vote following a comprehensive community engagement process and national search.

He graduated from San Bernardino High School and started his career in education as a bilingual elementary school teacher in the District more than 30 years ago. Arellano is the son of immigrant parents from Mexico who also worked in SBCUSD schools. He was a first-generation college student when he pursued his undergraduate degrees in sociology and Spanish at the University of California, Riverside. He later earned a master’s degree in educational administration from California State University, San Bernardino.

CARSON, CA— Festival season officially kicks off with the 4th Annual Dymally International Jazz & Arts Festival headlined by Grammy award-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Lalah Hathaway. Festival organizers have announced the addition of The Family Stone (“Everyday People”) to this year’s lineup.  Additionally, award-winning journalist Roland Martin and comedian and actor Bill Bellamy have been announced as the event’s emcees.  The event will take place on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at DignityHealth Sports Park (18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, 90746). Doors open at 1 p.m.  Tickets are $50 and $75. To purchase, visit the AXS website.

Other performers include Marcus Miller, Down to the Bone, and Jazz in Pink. A second stage will also feature top international acts.

The day-long festival will include a curated marketplace featuring Black artists, art dealers, and galleries selling original paintings, limited edition prints, home decor, accent pieces, and gifts.

Since 2019, the Dymally International Jazz Arts and Arts Festival has used artistic culture to promote and inspire thought in honor of the late Mervyn Dymally, an internationalist who traveled to over 60 countries throughout his political career-promoting the exchange of cultures throughout the world. The Festival seeks to honor his legacy in bringing the best of jazz and jazz-influenced music, arts, and culture to Cal State University, Dominguez Hills, and surrounding communities.

The proceeds of the annual event benefit university programs such as the CSUDH Presidential Scholars and non-profit programs, The Dymally Fellows Program, and the African American Leadership Training Summit.

For more information, please visit csudh.edu/dymally-institute/jazz-and-arts-festival.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) is hosting a public hearing for its draft Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Three-Year Integrated Plan, which includes fiscal years 2023/24 through 2025/26.

The public hearing will be held during the regularly scheduled Behavioral Health Commission Meeting on Thursday, April 6, from noon to 2 p.m. The meeting will also be held in person with 1st District Commissioner, Pastor Mark Graham, at 12920 Topsham Bay, Apple Valley. To view the Webex meeting info and all in-person locations, visit www.westsidestorynewspaper.com.

For more information, please call (800) 722-9866.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- Easter arrives on Sunday, and the First District is hopping with several fun family activities this weekend! Here’s a guide to a few:

• The Town of Apple Valley’s annual Bunny Run takes place from 7-10 a.m. Saturday at the James Woody Community Center. All registered runners receive a custom medal and race bib. The first 50 registered will receive a free shirt. For more information, please call (760) 240-7880.
• The Town of Apple Valley Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the 58th Annual Easter Egg Hunt/ Eggstravaganza from 9:30 a.m. until noon Saturday at the James Woody Community Center. For more information, please call (760) 240-7880.
• The City of Victorville’s annual Spring Festival and Egg Hunt takes place from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Hook Park. The event will include an egg hunt for children ages 3-9 (bring your own baskets), local food and craft vendors, display booths and an inflatable KidsZone.  Admission, parking, and the KidsZone are free. For more information, please call (760) 245-5551.
• The Silver Lakes Association will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt for Helendale residents from 8:30-11:30 a.m. on Saturday. Photos with the Easter Bunny begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by a life-size Candy Land game at 9 a.m., and egg hunts at 11 a.m. For more information, call (760) 245-1606.
• Phelan’s Easter Egg Hunt will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Serrano High School football field. Bring your Easter baskets to enjoy a variety of children’s games. The hunt begins at 10 a.m. for children ages 2-10. There will also be Easter gift basket raffles at the hunt. For more information, please call (760) 868-3291.
• Hesperia’s Easter Egg Hunt will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Hesperia Community Park. Guests can enjoy free bounce houses, pictures with the Easter Bunny, craft and vendor booths, and food trucks. Please bring your own basket. For more information, visit  com.
• High Desert Second Chance will host its annual Walk Through Easter event from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday. Enjoy free family fun, a classic car contest, vendor giveaways and more. Partner agencies include Victor Valley Rescue Mission, Rock’n Our Disabilities, Rockabilly Mafia Dolls, Feeding America Riverside/SB, C.H.A.N, Victorville Friendly Smile, and Dream Lounge Apple Valley. For more information, please call 442-267-4444.
• The community of Wrightwood will celebrate Easter with a free Egg Hunt on Saturday at Hollis M. Stewart Children’s Park. This event is open to four age groups and begins at 10 a.m. The park is located at 6059 Pine Street in Wrightwood. For more information, please call (760) 249-3205.
• Trona residents can celebrate Easter with two fun family events this Saturday. The Trona Elks Lodge will host a children’s Easter Party and Egg Hunt from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., followed by an Easter Egg Hunt and Movie on the Rocks hosted by Searles Valley Off-Road, TIS General Store and SBC Wireless from 3-7 p.m. at Great Falls. For more information on the Elks event, please call (760) 372-5849. For more information about the Movie on the Rocks event, please call (760) 372-5420.
• Calico Ghost Town will host its annual Easter “Eggtravaganza” from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. The event will include egg hunts, photos with the Easter bunny, gunfighter shows, games, activities, and live entertainment from Twinkle Time, the High-D Boys and BillyBunnies. Admission is $15 for adults (12 and older), $10 for youth (ages 3-11), and children under 3 years old are free. For more information, please call 760-254-1123.

BLOOMINGTON, CA— Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. helped kick off the beginning of the baseball season by participating in the Opening Day Ceremonies for the Bloomington Little League at Kessler Park. All Little League teams were present, and they were able to join in on the games and giveaways. The highlight of the opening was seeing two 1981 World Series Dodger Champions. Kenny Landreaux caught the final out of the 1981 World Series, and Jerry Reuss helped the Dodgers win. The Department of San Bernardino County Library, First 5 San Bernardino, and the Bloomington Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) supported the event.

“It was an honor to have the opportunity to join Bloomington Little Leagues Opening Day Ceremony. The event was well attended, with a lot of community support and Dodgers baseball legends Kenny Landreaux and Jerry Reuss. The Bloomington Little League members had a blast seeing, taking pictures, and getting autographed baseballs and cards from Kenny Landreaux and Jerry Reuss. As a former coach of 12 years, I love baseball because it teaches life lessons, such as teamwork, working hard, working together, and never quitting.”

YUCAIPA, CA— When Dr. Stephanie Houston first stepped onto the Crafton Hills College (CHC) campus in January 1993, she had no idea where her education there would take her.

Today, Houston, assistant superintendent of Innovation and Engagement for the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS), is making a splash in education by supporting student success in various impactful roles. Her dedication to making a difference in the field has led her to add one more accomplishment to her already growing resume as CHC Foundation’s 2023 Outstanding Alumna.

“I was surprised. Honored for sure. And a little bit looking behind me like, ‘Are you sure it’s me?’” Houston said. “I’m honored to be affiliated with Crafton in this way because I know the school makes such a difference in the lives of so many, and to be mentioned in the context of the school is just an honor.”

Houston will be recognized by CHC officials, faculty, staff and donors at the CHC Foundation’s Night Out Gala, its annual fundraiser, held this year on April 6. The event is the nonprofit’s biggest fundraiser to support student success by backing several student and campus-led initiatives, covering unexpected class expenses to awarding scholarships.

Michelle Riggs, CHC’s director of institutional advancement, called Houston a “great example” of what the Yucaipa-based community college means to the area and its diverse student, faculty and staff population.

“Entering Crafton as an adult and mother of four small children, she successfully completed her studies and went on to earn her bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate,” Riggs continued. “We are so fortunate to have Houston as an advocate, a leader and a supporter of Crafton and are proud to recognize her as the 2023 Outstanding Alumna.”

Houston has built her career in education over the last three decades. Before her current role at SBCSS, Houston served as the superintendent of the Colton-Redlands-Yucaipa Regional Occupational Program and is a former adjunct professor at the University of Redlands. In addition to her busy schedule, Houston served on the San Bernardino County Workforce Investment Board Youth Council from 1999 to 2014. She was president of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA)’s Career Technical Education Council from 2011 to 2014.

She has been part of several other educational-based organizations and groups within the Inland Empire community, including the San Bernardino Community College District Board (SBCCD), where she serves as the current chair and trustee.

The SBCCD Board oversees CHC and its sister school, San Bernardino Valley College. Houston and her fellow board members were elected by their respective districts. Houston serves as the Area Six representative and said she is “honored that the public put their trust in me” and that her main motivation for serving is to “ensure the legacy and rich history of both campuses remain strong.”

“My motivation is the impact on the community, the students… and ensuring their experience [at a community college] is as positive as mine was, and the outcome is based on their ability to make their own choices and have their personal freedom that comes with being educated,” Houston said.

For students looking to start their path to higher education, Houston gives the following advice: just start.

“Time passes whether you’re in school or just working and taking care of the kids or just figuring out how to pay the bills or not,” she continued. “The hardest part is just showing up and getting through the registration process. But once you get to class and you step on campus and see [its] environment, you’ll say, ‘Wow, this is built for me.’”

Since its inception, the CHC Foundation’s mission has been to support its campus population through scholarships, grants and other contributions that extend student-based educational opportunities. Year-round fundraising efforts like the annual gala and philanthropic donations from community members, organizations and CHC partners help make this possible.

This year’s Night Out Gala will take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the CHC quad. Tickets are $100 per person. Table reservations are available.

To purchase tickets or to learn more, go to craftonhills.edu/visitors-and-alumni/giving-to-chc/gala-2023 or contact Riggs by email at mriggs@craftonhills.edu or by phone at 909-389-3391.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The life and legacy of the late labor leader and activist César E. Chávez was celebrated when the Chicano Latino Caucus of San Bernardino County and the Latino Education & Advocacy Days at Cal State San Bernardino recently presented the 12th annual César E. Chávez Memorial Breakfast at the university’s Santos Manuel Student Union South.

The breakfast on April 1 marked the first time since 2019 that the breakfast took place. Traditionally scheduled to commemorate Chávez’s birthday (March 31) and held as part of LEAD Week – a week-long series of events including the LEAD Summit that focused on Latino educational issues – it was canceled in 2020, 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the LEAD Summit has been rescheduled to take place in the fall.

Taking place the day after the state holiday honoring the life and work of Chávez [ufw.org], the breakfast was emceed by Eloise Gómez Reyes [a50.asmdc.org], a member of the California Assembly majority leader who represents southwest San Bernardino County.

Ron Estrada, CEO of Washington, D.C.,-based Farmworker Justice [farmworkerjustice.org], was the keynote speaker. Estrada, a longtime voice in support of underserved people and communities of color in the U.S., has invested decades in issues related to racial and social justice. Prior to joining Farmworker Justice in March 2022 [farmworkerjustice.org], he was the head of government relations at Univision Communications, and also led the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Empowerment initiatives.

Also speaking at the breakfast was Flor Martinez [kqed.org], founder and president of The Celebration Nation Foundation [celebration-nation.org], a San Jose-based nonprofit organization focused on helping the indigenous and Latino community. A former farmworker with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals [kqed.org] (DACA) status, Martinez is also now an entrepreneur and social media influencer.

In addition, the event featured the installation of Chicano Latino Caucus of San Bernardino County’s new officers, a video by artist Juan Solis, a performance by Ballet Folklorico de Gary Ferrer and presentation of the Muñoz Legacy and Lifetime Achievement Award.

Former California Gov. Gray Davis signed legislation in 2002 making Chávez’s birthday a state holiday to promote service to the communities of California in honor of the late labor leader’s life and work.

RIALTO, CA—- The City of Rialto receives $2 million in federal funding to support its Lake Rialto habitat project. Congressman Pete Aguilar secured the funds for the program. The Congressman said, “Ensuring our residents can enjoy safe and clean open spaces for outdoor recreation is necessary to create a healthier, more sustainable community.

“This funding I helped secure will help construct Lake Rialto, 10 acres of lake, wetlands and trails, that will protect vulnerable species and play a vital role in the environmental success for the Santa Ana River Habitat Conservation Plan.” _This brings total funding for the $8 million project to more than $5 million, thanks to additional funding sources.

The environmentally beneficial project includes the creation of wetlands and wildlife habitats on city-owned property adjacent to the City of Rialto Water Treatment Plant, which will provide recycled water for the lake itself, which then flows into the environmentally critical Rialto Channel.

Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson said, “The project design is now 90% complete and we hope to break ground this coming fall.”

The endangered Santa Ana sucker and Arroyo chub swim from the Santa Ana River up the Rialto Channel during cooler weather, but during hotter days, the water can be too warm for the fish. Because of the depth of the lake, much needed cooler water can be taken from the bottom of the lake and discharged into the Rialto Channel, providing potentially significant environmental benefits to critical species. The City of Rialto has worked diligently with potential partnering agencies to explore and maximize all of the environmental benefits of this project.

The lake will also provide a welcome habitat for seasonal wildfowl who migrate to and from Mexico on the Pacific Flyway, providing abundant birdwatching opportunities for the community.

Mayor Robertson said, “Rialto residents can look forward to enjoying the lake’s open spaces, walking trails and environmental education programs. Special programs for children will enable them to get a taste of the great outdoors right in their own city.

We’re so very pleased and honored that Congressman Aguilar has supported this leading-edge project to create an infrastructure that will serve as an environmentally sensitive and attractive recreational facility and wildlife habitat.

Support for this model of an urban water stewardship project is something all of our elected policymakers should be advocating. This needs to be at the forefront of their priorities.”

The City of Rialto has grown a lot in recent years with its ongoing development projects. Now, Lake Rialto adds to an impressive list of commercial and residential projects, a different kind of addition to the City’s assets that demonstrates that it “walks the talk” _when it comes to planning environmentally sensitive development.