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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Perris Hill Pickleball is thrilled to announce a bold and forward-thinking proposal to transform Perris Hill Park into a premier destination for pickleball and tennis enthusiasts. This state-of-the-art facility promises to enhance recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike, while fostering community engagement and bolstering the local economy.

The proposed pickleball and tennis center is set to include cutting-edge amenities such as 12 pickleball courts, 4 tennis courts, new open sided shade structure for players and spectators. A spectacular grand main entrance with a featured sign structure. By creating a shared space for players of all ages and skill levels, the vision for this project reflects the club’s commitment to inclusivity, health, and growth of racquet sports in our region.

“Our vision is to create a world-class facility that inspires connection, competition, and wellness,” said Sam Catalano, spokesperson for Perris Hill Pickleball. “This center will be more than just courts-it will be a vibrant community hub where people can gather, learn, and celebrate the joy of sport.”

In addition to enriching the recreational landscape, the center is poised to deliver significant economic benefits. By hosting tournaments, leagues, and community events, the facility is expected to attract visitors, support local businesses, and generate revenue for the city.

To turn this vision into reality, Perris Hill Pickleball is seeking public and political support to secure necessary approvals and funding for the project. The club is working closely with city officials to ensure that the project aligns with the City of San Bernardino’s goals for sustainable development and community well-being.

“We expect the new pickleball and tennis center will be a high activity hub that will generate significant traffic all the hours and days the park is open,” said Catalano.

By Joseph R. Williams

Community College Month is a time to reflect on how local institutions create opportunity, close equity gaps, and drive economic mobility. In the Inland Empire, that mission is being realized through San Bernardino Valley College’s new Applied Technology Building—a bold, future-facing investment in career education.

This facility is more than just steel and concrete. It’s a symbol of progress. Inside are programs that prepare students for high-growth, high-wage careers—fields like industrial automation, HVAC, clean energy, and advanced transportation. These aren’t abstract degrees; they’re direct connections to jobs that begin at $80,000 a year or more.

For students in San Bernardino and across the region—many of whom are the first in their family to attend college—this kind of access is life-changing. It represents not just education, but empowerment. It means the ability to support a family, purchase a home, or start a business.

Career Technical Education (CTE) is one of the most effective tools we have to create upward mobility. Yet CTE programs—and community colleges more broadly—don’t always get the attention or investment they deserve. While four-year universities dominate the conversation, it is our community colleges that are doing the heavy lifting: training workers, responding to local labor market demands, and meeting students where they are.

San Bernardino Valley College’s new building changes the game. It’s a clear, physical commitment to preparing students for the jobs of today and tomorrow. It’s also a reflection of what can happen when we align vision with resources—when we move beyond conversation and into action.

But buildings alone don’t close equity gaps. Continued investment is needed—not just in infrastructure, but in outreach, support services, and strong partnerships with employers. The success of this project will be measured not only by the number of students enrolled, but by how many of them graduate with industry-recognized credentials, secure good jobs, and stay rooted in the Inland Empire.

This Community College Month, I urge business leaders to partner with us, policymakers to prioritize CTE funding, and community members to see the promise in our public colleges.

Because when we invest in students, we invest in our region. And when we strengthen our colleges, we strengthen our economy.

Joseph R. Williams is a Trustee with the San Bernardino Community College District and a long-time advocate for educational and economic equity in the Inland Empire.

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— The 2025 Remarkable Women program celebrated an extraordinary milestone as Dr. Kimberly Carter-Tillman was named the National Remarkable Woman of the Year. Dr. Carter-Tillman, who represented KTLA as their local finalist, joined 124 other remarkable women from across the nation for a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Los Angeles, where they experienced the glamour of Hollywood while being recognized for their contributions to their communities.

The finalists, selected from more than 200 Nexstar Media Group owned or partner stations across 116 U.S. markets, were treated to a special Hollywood experience. The group enjoyed accommodations at the Loews Hollywood Hotel, a poolside reception catered by Wolfgang Puck, and a special “Remarkable Women” presentation.

A highlight of the experience included a visit to Warner Bros. Studios, where the 125 Remarkable Women were invited as special guests to The Jennifer Hudson Show. The women were welcomed warmly and had the opportunity to be part of the show’s audience during a taping.

Dr. Carter-Tillman’s exceptional work clearly stood out among the impressive group of finalists, specifically for what she is doing to transform women from economic dependents to economic leaders through entrepreneurship and supportive housing.  She was first selected as one of the five regional finalists, each of whom received $5,000 towards a charity of their choice. Ultimately, Dr. Carter-Tillman was crowned the National Remarkable Woman of the Year, receiving the grand prize of $25,000 from the Nexstar Charitable Foundation for her designated charity.

The announcement was made during the one-hour “Remarkable Women” special which aired on The CW Network on Sunday, April 20, 2025, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Viewers who missed the special can find more information about Dr. Carter-Tillman’s achievements and the program on their local Nexstar station websites.

Publisher’s Commentary by Wallace J. Allen

 Is Trump manipulating his way to declaring Martial Law? He has placed troops on the Southern Border in the name of a fictional invasion. He is  using the Alien Enemies Act to make his point by deporting  immigrants, documented or not. He is securing subtle support from closet racist by focusing his immigrant hate on people of color! If someone is not an anti-racist, one might fall into the category of racist.

He is deporting non-white people that he simply declares to be here illegally, while expressing the idea that there should be more people from places like Sweden and Denmark coming to America! See it live daily! He calls Immigrants  invaders in America, the country created by immigrants! He cites immigrants as invaders in order to say that America is in fact at war! If he can convinces us that he believes that America is at war, he can declare a State Of Emergency, which is what he did to place our military troops along the Southern Boarder. The resistance to that unconstitutional move was very slight, and thus a green light for his next assault on the Constitution!

The door has been opened to Martial Law and his apparent ultimate dream status of President for life. He has started so many fires of distraction that I fear we are ignoring his most dangerous plot.

The increasing chaos and confusion caused by his assault on the Economy, Social Security, Healthcare, Education and Foreign Relations is engineered chaos! This chaos will fan the flames of resistance. Protests will increase! Adding to the probability of a protest being used as the final excuse for him to declare Martial Law! No law prevents him from doing it and he certainly has the audacity and cult following to force the question!

ONTARIO, CA— The lights dimmed, the music swelled, and for one unforgettable night, every seat at Time for Change Foundation’s 23rd Annual Awards Gala became a front row to hope, resilience, and unstoppable impact.

Held at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Ontario, CA, the sold-out gala welcomed a powerhouse audience of civic leaders, advocates, and supporters for an unforgettable evening themed “Unwavering: Igniting Change, Inspiring Hope.” Attendees were deeply moved by the stories of transformation and the honorees who embody the relentless spirit of change in our communities.

Among this year’s esteemed honorees were Academy Award-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson, Grammy-nominated country star Jon Pardi, and Academy Award-nominated producer Chiara Tilesi, alongside a lineup of dedicated changemakers working across philanthropy, the arts, housing, education, and economic justice.

The 2024 honorees included:

• Richard Jeske – Nancy Verner Angel Award
• Ginger Ontiveros – Unsung Hero
• Jon Pardi – Humanitarian Award
• Chiara Tilesi – Women’s Global icon Award
• Lifting as We Climb – Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award
• Charisse Bremond Weaver & George Weaver – Dynamic Duo
• Taraji P. Henson – Philanthropist of the Year Award
• Michelle Decker – Community Champion Award

Each honoree was celebrated for their unwavering dedication to creating lasting change—whether through mental health advocacy, music, global storytelling, philanthropy, or grassroots organizing. Their stories inspired standing ovations and left guests motivated to be part of the movement.

“This wasn’t just an awards show—it was a powerful reminder of what happens when passion meets purpose,” said Executive Director, Vanessa Perez. “These honorees are shaping a better future, not just for themselves, but for entire communities.”

Proceeds from the gala will help fund Time for Change Foundation’s work in providing housing, supportive services, and opportunities for economic development. By strengthening the foundation of housing and economic empowerment, TFCF ensures that individuals and families overcoming homelessness and crisis can reach their fullest potential and achieve long-term success.

Together, we are building a brighter future. Get involved and be part of the change at www.timeforchangefoundation.org.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy is proud to announce that California State Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson will serve as the keynote speaker at the 2025 Mayor’s Masquerade Ball, to be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Cal State San Bernardino.

This year’s event will honor three outstanding mayors for their visionary leadership and dedication to uplifting their communities:

• Mayor Gabriel Reyes of Adelanto
• Mayor L. Dennis Michael of Rancho Cucamonga
• Mayor Tim Sandoval of Pomona

Serving as the evening’s emcee is Donald English, Ed.D., esteemed President of the Chaffey Joint Union High School District.

The Mayor’s Masquerade Ball is more than an evening of elegance and celebration—it’s a call to action. Since its founding in 2001, Young Visionaries has empowered over 200,000 youth throughout the Inland Empire. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit life-changing programs that nurture leadership, education, and resilience among the next generation.

Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson, a champion of equity, youth empowerment, and transformative change, brings a message of inspiration and purpose to this memorable evening. His commitment to public service and grassroots leadership perfectly aligns with the values and mission of Young Visionaries.

Guests are encouraged to wear their finest masquerade attire for this magical night of celebration, networking, and community building.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available.
To reserve your seat or to learn more, scan the QR code on the flyer or visit www.yvyla-ie.org.

You may also contact us directly at Gala@yvyla-ie.org or call 909-513-4286.

Let’s come together to celebrate leadership, elevate our youth, and turn dreams into

By Angela M. Coggs

In a deeply moving and powerful tribute, the first annual memorial event hosted by Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc. was held at Smiley Park on Wednesday evening. From 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., families, friends, and community members gathered to honor and remember those whose lives were tragically taken by violence.

The emotional evening was made possible through a meaningful collaboration between Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc., the City of Redlands, the Redlands Police Department, the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, and the Bureau of Victim Services. Together, they created a safe space of remembrance, healing, and community support.

Attendees were encouraged to bring cherished items representing their loved ones—photos, pairs of shoes, and personalized t-shirts. The shoes and pictures were displayed in a solemn memorial installation, serving as a poignant visual reminder of the many lives lost to senseless violence. A special feature of the event was “The Clothesline,” where t-shirts bearing the faces and names of victims were hung and celebrated, fluttering gently in the evening breeze as symbols of remembrance and enduring love.

The event was the heartfelt vision of Rose Madsen, mother of Jennifer LeAnne Balber, a 20-year-old woman who was shot and killed while on duty as a Southern California Gas Company Meter Reader in Rialto, California, on November 10, 1994. Jennifer was not the intended target of the drive-by shooting, but her life was tragically taken in an act of violence that shook her family, friends, workplace, and community to its core.

Madsen has transformed her pain into purpose. Through Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc., she now works to ensure that no family has to suffer alone. The organization aims to support those affected by violent crime and advocate for awareness, healing, and remembrance.

“This isn’t just about mourning our loved ones—it’s about keeping their memories alive, standing together, and finding strength in community,” Madsen shared during the event.

As candles were lit and names were read aloud, tears were shed and hands held tightly. The power of the evening came not only from grief, but from unity and a shared determination to honor every victim with dignity, love, and hope.

FFMV partnered with the City of Redlands. Redlands Police Department and the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office & the Bureau of Victim Services. District Attorney Jason Anderson welcomes and spoke to the attendees at this momentous gathering. His words were heartfelt, sincere, thoughtful, resonating deeply with those in attendance.

Families and Friends of Murdered Victims, Inc. plans to make this memorial an annual tradition. Another source of ongoing support, FFMV releases a monthly newsletter to keep supporters and families informed and connected.

For more information, to ask questions, or to sign up for the monthly newsletter, please contact Rose Madsen at mail4ffmv@yahoo.com.

In memory of Jennifer LeAnne Balber and all victims of violence — gone, but never forgotten.

INLAND EMPIRE, CA— College acceptance and financial aid letters are arriving soon, and high school seniors and college students have a major opportunity to ease their higher education costs through the CalKIDS program. 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.

In Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, more than $332 million in CalKIDS Scholarships has been made available to public school students over the last three years, providing critical financial support for their higher education. A CalKIDS Scholarship does not require students to submit essays, meet a minimum GPA, or provide recommendation letters. Claiming a scholarship is simple and takes just minutes at CalKIDS.org.

“CalKIDS is an incredible resource for Inland Empire 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, and we want every eligible student to claim their scholarship account and take full advantage of this opportunity.”

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.

For students like Samantha from Moreno Valley College, the 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.”

For Johanny from California State University, San Bernardino, the CalKIDS Scholarship provided some much-needed financial relief. “I had to work 2 jobs to pay for parking and books… I felt so relieved that I could finally pay for bills at university.”

To get the word out about this amazing program in Inland Empire and ensure students and families are aware of and claim their CalKIDS Accounts, the ScholarShare Investment Board has worked diligently to establish strong partnerships with high schools, school districts, community-based organizations, and financial aid directors at community colleges and universities. Partnerships with organizations like Growing Inland Achievement, UC Riverside Early Academic Outreach Program, and more play a vital role in spreading awareness and helping students access the funds available to them.

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.

“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 7 out of 10 public school students in the Inland Empire eligible for a CalKIDS Scholarship and key college decisions 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.

YUCAIPA, CA— A 10-year-old girl from San Bernardino, Calif., is set to make Crafton Hills College history this May when she becomes the youngest Roadrunner ever to graduate from the Yucaipa-based community college.

Alisa Perales, who will have just turned 11 at the time of the ceremony, will cross the stage with not one but two associate degrees—one in multiple sciences and another in mathematics—joining hundreds of Roadrunners who will become Crafton alumni. Her final GPA will be “close” to a 4.0.

Remarkably, Alisa could have earned two additional degrees in computer science and physics had she stayed one more semester.

“When I first started at Crafton (at the age of 8), I was a little bit nervous…because this was my first time going to a public school,” said Alisa, “but then I met some really nice people, and that was super helpful.”

Alisa’s love for learning began early. By her first birthday, she had already moved beyond basic ABCs and 123s. Guided by her father, Rafael Perales, she has been focused on expanding her knowledge ever since.

With her father leading the way, Alisa never stopped absorbing information, constantly working to improve her skills.

“I credit my dad for pushing me to do well in school and try my best to work hard,” she said.

“She has been a little different her whole life, but I have always taught her that there’s nothing out there that you’re not capable of understanding,” Rafael added.

Alisa began attending Crafton in spring of 2023. Before becoming a Roadrunner, she considered applying to California State University, San Bernardino, but a counselor encouraged her to explore community college first due to her homeschooling background.

Crafton offered the support she needed to thrive, and she quickly found her place.

Alisa’s father became an honorary Roadrunner, accompanying her early semesters and patiently waiting outside her classes. Eventually, she began attending classes independently and flourishing on her own.

“Before she started at Crafton, I explained that she was going to be around many older kids, and she didn’t seem intimidated by that. She seemed to fit right in,” said Rafael. “So, I just followed my daughter’s lead. I did not make her adhere to a rigorous schedule I had set out for her. I responded to what she was interested in and helped feed that interest and fueled that fire, and her interest in school remained strong.”

At age 8, Alisa took a political science course and used what she learned to file a lawsuit in federal court against both the state and federal governments. Her case challenged the constitutionality of the 26th Amendment and Article II, Section 2 of the California Constitution, arguing that if she had achieved the same education as 18-year-olds, she should also be allowed to vote.

Although the case was unsuccessful, and she was unable to afford an appeal to the 9th Circuit, Alisa hopes another young prodigy will one day pick up the cause.

Alisa has big plans after college. She hopes to work in the artificial intelligence tech industry, either by joining an established company or building a startup with her dad.

No matter what Alisa’s future holds, it promises to be bright.

“Crafton wants everyone to succeed, but you have to work hard to get what you want,” Alisa said. “Do not ever have any doubts over what you want to do in life. Just go out there and give it a shot.”

RIVERSIDE, CA— April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and take action to protect children from abuse and neglect. In recognition of this, the County of Riverside, Family Service Association (FSA), and the HOPE Collaborative united on April 1st to raise awareness about child abuse prevention during a moving flag-raising ceremony held at the Riverside County Administration Center.

Now in its third year, the ceremony honored the lives of children lost to abuse, neglect, and violence. It also aimed to educate the community on recognizing signs of abuse and highlighted the collaborative efforts of various organizations dedicated to protecting children. Among those in attendance were representatives from local nonprofits, including the SAFE Family Justice Center, Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center, Boys and Girls Club, NORA,  Childhelp, and many others who provide direct services to children and families in crisis.

More than 100 community members gathered to pay their respects to victims and demonstrate their collective commitment to creating a safer environment for children.  Prominent figures including First District Supervisor Jose Medina, Second District Supervisor Karen Spiegel, and Sheriff Chad Bianco delivered powerful speeches emphasizing the importance of community involvement and child protection. County Executive Officer, Jeff Van Wagenen, emceed the event.

Katie Gilbertson, Regional Manager at the Division of Victim Services at the Riverside County’s District Attorney’s Office, stated “This month isn’t just about awareness. It’s about recognizing the quiet, often invisible suffering of children, and renewing our commitment to protect them.” With over 16 years of experience in child abuse prevention, Gilbertson serves as a Board Member for the HOPE Collaborative and has participated in forensic interviews, medical exams, court proceedings, and victim impact statements. She emphasized, “The work that we do in addressing child abuse is never easy. We are often exposed to some of the most evil acts that our community has to offer. Child abuse is one of the most insidious crimes that we can confront…and it often comes at the hands at the someone that a child deeply loved – a parent, a relative, or friend.”

Bridgette Hernandez, Assistant Director at the Department of Social Services Children’s Services, shared, “Our work is always centered on ensuring that children and families have the resources they need to thrive. Each year, we receive over 62,000 calls of abuse or neglect to our child abuse hotline and conduct roughly 22,000 investigations. However, our work goes beyond investigating allegations of abuse and neglect. Through our partnerships, we also focus on prevention by providing families with resources and supports to create safe environments and reduce life stressors.

Sheriff Chad Bianco added, “We are incredibly proud of our partners – whether they are nonprofit organizations or county agencies. When we encounter children in harm’s way, we know that they are placed in the capable hands of those who will protect and care for them.”

Investing in early childhood programs, expanding family resource services, strengthening behavioral health services, and improving interdepartmental coordination are key priorities in the County’s strategy to support families. Supervisor Jose Medina highlighted these efforts, stating, “When families have access to the right support and know where to go for help, they are better able to care for and protect their children. In District 1, we are seeing this take shape with the opening of the Franklin Residential Care Facility and Behavioral Health Clinic in Riverside and the Wellness Village in Mead Valley – a campus integrating housing, healthcare, and support services.”

As a founding member of the Board’s Committee on Systems Improvement for the Protection of Vulnerable Children and Adults, Supervisor Karen Spiegel emphasized, “I’ve often said it takes a village. We must work together to achieve the best outcomes for our children. Keeping them safe is a collective responsibility that requires the involvement of schools, businesses, law enforcement, government agencies, faith-based organizations, and, most importantly, parents themselves.”

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration in safeguarding children. In Riverside County, Family Service Association (FSA) serves as the designated Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC) known as the HOPE Collaborative. The HOPE Collaborative fosters ongoing engagement through monthly meetings across the county, bringing together professionals, parents, and volunteers from diverse backgrounds.

Stephanie Soto, Community Services Director, shared, “FSA strives to prevent child abuse, help families thrive, and build stronger communities. We partner with dozens of organizations to address the root causes of child maltreatment, such as poverty, lack of access to resources, and mental health issues. Through educational programs, awareness campaigns, and community outreach, we empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and skills they need to raise healthy and happy children.”

The successful flag-raising ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to protect children. The event concluded on an uplifting note with a special performance by second-grade students from Jackson Elementary School in the City of Riverside, who sang It’s Gonna Be a Good Day, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for the future.

The HOPE Collaborative encourages community members to attend future events and get involved. For more information, contact the HOPE Collaborative by calling 951-369-8036 or by visiting its website at www.hopecollaborative.org.

If you suspect that a child is experiencing abuse or neglect, report it by calling the confidential 24-hour, 7-day-a-week hotline at 1-800-442-4918. Your voice can make the difference for one child.

About the County of Riverside:

The County of Riverside has approximately 40 departments serving more than 2.4 million residents. Services ranging from public safety, health and human services, public works and community services, as well as budget and finance. The county serves approximately 1 million residents a year through its human services departments to ensure residents have critical resources and support.

About Family Service Association:

For over 70 years, Family Service Association has addressed poverty, hunger, and health, from infancy to older adults, in families and under-served communities. Through early education, trauma-informed mental health services, obtainable senior housing, support for home-bound individuals, safe senior/community centers, and nutritious meals for older adults, FSA’s team members serve over 21,000 community members each year. FSA also lead’s the County’s Child Abuse Prevention Council, The HOPE Collaborative.

About HOPE Collaborative:

Facilitated by Family Service Association, The HOPE Collaborative serves as Riverside County’s Child Abuse Prevention Council. With a focus on interagency collaboration, community awareness, education, policy advocacy, and mandatory reporter training, the HOPE collaborative works closely with law enforcement, school districts, non-profits, medical providers, mental health professionals, faith-based groups, community advocates, and the department of public and social services towards the prevention of child abuse and neglect in Riverside County.