April 2009 Archives
YUCAIPA - The Yucaipa Thunderbirds knocked off the Redlands East Valley Wildcats, 9-5, on Thursday in a Citrus Belt League match up of the two top contending teams for the league championship.
(My esteemed colleague in the sports department, T.J. Berka, will have a game story in the SUN tomorrow morning.)
Also check out T.J.'s Blog Click Here For Berka's Sports Blog
After school program teaches kids about the Constitution and the courtroom
By Mike Sturman
Beaumont Unified School District
BEAUMONT, CA - Jack Box, who was charged with climbing up his back-yard beanstalk and killing the Giant, has been found not guilty of murder. Jack, who also was charged with burglary and theft in the taking of the hen that laid the golden egg, was convicted of two counts of theft.
Jack, who said he "rescued" the hen because he thought the Giant would hurt it, said he was afraid of the massive man living in the clouds. He claimed his chopping down of the beanstalk, which sent the plummeting Giant to his death, was self-defense. "I didn't mean to kill the Giant," Jack said on the stand.
As the child's fairy tale goes, the Giant, who was home in his castle, was chased by Jack from the castle and toward the beanstalk growing in Jack's back yard. Jack reached the beanstalk first and climbed down. When the boy reached the ground, he saw the giant heading toward him, so he cut down the beanstalk.
"When the Giant fell in your back yard, what did you do?" asked one of the attorneys.
"I made sure he missed the Hen," Jack said.
YUCAIPA - Oh, how the written word can rouse inspirational power. When Lia Nelson read, "Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace... One School at a Time," by Greg Mortenson, it inspired her to launch a school project to raise money to help support education for children in Pakistan - one penny at a time.
But first some background. Mortenson builds schools in remote, impoverished regions of Pakistan and Afghanistan through the organization he founded, the Central Asia Institute. It all started in 1993 when Mortenson fell while climbing Pakistan's K2, the world's second highest mountain in the Karakoram range.
After finding his way to a remote village, kindly villagers nursed Mortenson back to health. He promised to repay them by building the village a school. And he has kept building schools.
Mortenson has built over 78 schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan, which provide education to over 28,000 children, including 18,000 girls.
Mortenson advocates girls' education as the top priority to promote economic development, peace and prosperity.
He was quoted as saying: "You can drop bombs, hand out condoms, build roads, or put in electricity, but until the girls are educated a society won't change."
Subsequently, he wrote his best-selling book (#1 New York Times bestseller) telling how it all came about.
"I was inspired to get my class involved in this cause after reading his book," said Nelson, who teaches fourth grade at Meadow Creek Elementary School.
YUCAIPA - The question: "Are they all like this?"
The answer: "I've been on varsity for four years and every time we play Redlands it's like this," said Garrett Barham, the Yucaipa Thunderbirds' senior outside hitter.
The Thunderbirds and Redlands High Terriers met in an volleyball match on Wednesday that had a lot at stake. If Yucaipa wins, they'd have a pretty good lock on at least a tie for the Citrus Belt League championship. A loss and the Thunderbirds would have to win their final two matches to forge that league tie.
But in a frenzied, playoff like atmosphere, and in a Redlands gymnasium filled with screaming fans on both sides, Yucaipa dropped the fifth and deciding game, 13-15, after both teams had split the first four games, 2-2. The win gives Redlands a 12-3 league record, while Yucaipa stands at 12-2.
Both of the Thunderbirds' CBL losses come at the hands of the Terriers. In their first meeting, it was no contest as Redlands blitzed Yucaipa 3-0.
"We have a great rivalry," said Yucaipa Head Coach Gail Diliberto, adding that in the first meeting, Yucaipa lacked the effort and intensity to win. But today's match was a different story, she said. "The way we played today, that's what I want from them."
Patrick Fite,
Public Information
(909) 389-3333
YUCAIPA - It was a rewarding day for more than 200 seventh graders and their parents when they visited Crafton Hills College (CHC) in Yucaipa April 25 for an event titled "I'm Taking My Parent to College: An Academic Treasure Hunt."
The purpose of the event was to assist middle school students and their parents to learn about the steps needed to attend post-secondary schools and to learn about career opportunities.
The students participating were from Redlands, Yucaipa and Rialto School Districts.
The event was funded through a California Partnership for Achieving Student Success (Cal-Pass) grant. Cal-Pass is dedicated to helping educators improve student achievement by identifying and reducing barriers to successful student transition in all levels of education, from kindergarten through college.
There were informational booths throughout the campus quadrangle providing information about colleges, trade schools, and career training.
Parents particularly appreciated presentations on financial assistance opportunities that make college accessible.Additionally, a five year follow-up mentoring and counseling program was developed to ensure the students' academic success.
"I liked this event due to the fact that I was able to meet so many people in different jobs," said 12-year-old Brandon Wilks, a seventh grader from Frisbee Middle School in Rialto. "I met people in the Navy, firefighting, art, and other stuff."
YUCAIPA - Love flowers? Appreciate creativity? Looking for a few ideas to enhance and beautify your garden or yard?
Then take in the Garden Tour hosted by the Yucaipa Iris Festival this weekend. Six homes with their gardens and yards open and inviting are available for the public to tour, said Wes Thatcher, a director for the Iris Festival.
"There are some very formal gardens, and some informal," he said. "Each year the tour is totally different. A yard on the tour this year has a desert type (landscape). Some have beautiful water scapes, and statues."
Tickets cost $5 (children age 10 and under are free) and can be purchased at Yucaipa City Hall from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday at the Iris Festival booth. Maps will be provided, along with complimentary coffee and Danish, Thatcher said.
At 10 a.m. the tour begins and lasts until 4 p.m. on both days.
Thatcher said that the garden tour brings forth the question, "Just how creative can these gardeners get?" he said. "The garden tour is a great way to get to know our neighborhood and view the beauty here. If you love gardens, you will have a great time."
For more information visit www.irisfest.org. or call (909) 790-5033.
Click Here To Visit Iris Festival Website
Yucaipa City Hall
34272 Yucaipa Blvd.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
An editorial by Gordon Sinclair, a Canadian television commentator in Toronto. What follows is the full text of his trenchant remarks as printed in the Congressional Record.
Submitted by Pat Meagher
Forrest Falls
(909) 794-0117
"This Canadian thinks it is time to speak up for the Americans as the most generous and possibly the least appreciated people on all the earth.
Germany, Japan and, to a lesser extent, Britain and Italy were lifted out of the debris of war by the Americans who poured in billions of dollars, and forgave other billions in debts. None of these countries is today paying even the interest on its remaining debts to the United States.
When France was in danger of collapsing it was the Americans who propped it up, and their reward was to be insulted and swindled on the streets of Paris. I was there. I saw it.
When earthquakes hit distant cities, it is the United States that hurries in to help. This spring, 59 American communities were flattened by tornadoes. Nobody helped.
The Marshall Plan and the Truman Policy pumped billions of dollars into discouraged countries. Now newspapers in those countries are writing about the decadent, warmongering Americans.
I'd like to see just one of those countries that is gloating over the erosion of the United States dollar build its own airplane. Does any other country in the world have a plane to equal the Boeing Jumbo Jet, the Lockheed Tri-Star, or the Douglas DC10? If so, why don't they fly them? Why do all the International lines except Russia fly American Planes?
Why does no other land on earth even consider putting a man or woman on the moon? You talk about Japanese technocracy, and you get radios. You talk about German technocracy, and you get automobiles.
You talk about American technocracy, and you find men on the moon - not once, but several times - and safely home again.
You talk about scandals, and the Americans put theirs right in the store window for everybody to look at.
Even their draft-dodgers are not pursued and hounded. They are here on our streets, and most of them, unless they are breaking Canadian laws, are getting American dollars from ma and pa at home to spend here.
When the railways of France, Germany and India were breaking down through age, it was the Americans who rebuilt them. When the Pennsylvania Railroad and the New York Central went broke, nobody loaned them an old caboose. Both are still broke.
I can name you 5000 times when the Americans raced to the help of other people in trouble. Can you name me even one time when someone else raced to the Americans in trouble? I don't think there was outside help even during the San Francisco earthquake.
Our neighbors have faced it alone, and I'm one Canadian who is damned tired of hearing them get kicked around. They will come out of this thing with their flag high. And when they do, they are entitled to thumb their nose at the lands that are gloating over their present troubles. I hope Canada is not one of those."
YUCAIPA - A celebration, some reminiscing, a one big happy family reunion, that's what's planned for those who attended the "first" Yucaipa High School campus located on Sixth Street.
Now known as the Yucaipa High School 9th Grade Campus, the old school will come alive on Friday as former classmates gather for Yucaipa High School's 50th Anniversary, "A Celebration of the Early Years."
Jack Brennan taught at the school from 1964 to 2002. He has a lot of fond memories. In fact, he expects reminiscing to be one of the highlights of the event. Lots of stories will be shared. Memories of sports glories, school shenanigans, school romances, and "do you remember the time ..." will most likely be recalled and shared.
For Brennan, his memories involve heat and pests.
"I remember the flies," Brennan said. "If you opened your mouth you could have one fly right in. And we had no air conditioning and the windows didn't (offer much relief) from the heat."
YUCAIPA - Both teams have 7-1 league records. Both teams are scoring runs in bunches. Both teams have solid pitching. And both teams would like to kick the stuffing out of each other.
So the Citrus Belt League showdown on Thursday at Yucaipa High School's Tommy Thompson Field, between the Yucaipa Thunderbirds and Redlands East Valley Wildcats baseball teams promises to be a thriller.
For starters, at stake is a leg up in the battle for the CBL championship. Secondly, after a kick-in-the-butt, 12-2, thrashing by the Wildcats on April 17th at REV, the Thunderbirds probably have a little "revenge" on their minds. And thirdly, this has been a great rivalry over the years.
Look for both teams to score runs. Yes, I know, the Wildcats held the Thunderbirds to 2 runs and 3 hits in that first game, but I consider that an aberration. It won't happen again - Yucaipa just hits the ball too well, one through nine.
YUCAIPA / CALIMESA - I find it truly astounding and disturbing that Yucaipa and Calimesa were left off the TOP 100 Places To Live in America by Relocate America.
Which cities from California made the list? Riverside, Temecula, and Vacaville. All fine cities, sure, but once you've lived in the Yucaipa Valley, would you want to live "there?"
Throughout the calendar year, (Relocate America) accepts nominations for cities and towns throughout the country to be considered as a "top place to live."I guess we had better let the good folks at Relocate America know about Yucaipa and Calimesa!
Oh, the injustice of it all!
Click Here To See TOP 100 Places
(You can also sign up to be notified when the coffee table edition will be released. All proceeds will benefit Americans recently displaced from their homes due to natural disaster or family tragedy. Relocate America is partnering with the American Red Cross & Habitat for Humanity.)
SAN JACINTO - Jim Holden, long time Yucaipa Valley resident and baseball coaching guru is an assistant coach with the Mt. San Jacinto College Eagles baseball team.
Along with Holden, the team also includes two former Yucaipa High Thunderbirds baseball players - Josh Ray and John Eshleman.
Both Ray and Eshleman are having outstanding seasons in helping the Eagles claim the championship of the Foothill Conference with a 20-4 record, 31-9 overall. The Eagles should find out on Saturday, May 2nd, who they will play in the State Playoffs.
According to the California Community College Athletic Association, Eshleman currently holds the #5 spot in the entire state with 63 hits, #7 with a .450 batting average, and is tied in the #7 spot in triples with 5.
Meanwhile, Eagles' left fielder, Josh Ray, has signed a Division I Scholarship with the University of North Dakota. Ray signed on Wednesday, April 8.
Of the entire 91 community colleges in the state, Mt. San Jacinto currently is #1 in team batting average at .359.
But there's more state accolades for the Eagles:
#4 in slugging percentage at .504.
#5 On Base Percentage, .425.
#11 Runs Scored with 301.
#6 In Hits with 438.
#13 Runs Batted In at 266.
#6 Triples with 17.
#6 Earned Run Average, 3.27.
#1 Complete Games Pitching, 14.
#4 (Tied) with 4 complete games.
#4 in strikeouts with 312.
#1 in strikeout per nine innings with 9.91.
#3 in home runs allowed in nine innings at 0.19.
The Eagles could very well land a home series, Holden said. I will keep you advised on when they play. Mt. San Jacinto is about a 21 mile trip from Yucaipa.
BEAUMONT - Helpful advice for preparing for Pandemic Flu presented by the City of Beaumont Office of Emergency Services. The Guide includes information about pandemic flu, and what individuals and families can do to prepare for a pandemic flu outbreak. It also provides some web sites you can get additional information.
News Release:
SACRAMENTO - RJ Feild, a Riverside County teenager, will travel to Sacramento tomorrow to testify with Senator John J. Benoit (R-Bermuda Dunes) in front of the Senate Human Services Committee in support of "RJ's Law" (Senate Bill 384).
Benoit will host a press conference with RJ and invited coauthors in Capitol Room 2040 at 11:00 AM.
"RJ's powerful story presents a compelling case for reforming a broken system of dependency, a common-sense measure that would be a model for other States to follow," said Senator Benoit.
By Lori Valdepena
Community Services Assistant
Yucaipa Senior Center
(909) 797-1177
Loma Linda East Campus Hospital and The Rehabilitation Institute will present a series of educational topics. Call the office to sign up for presentation.
Movement Disorder
Dr. David Swope, MD Neurology will discuss movement disorders, diagnosis, and non-surgical and surgical treatment options on Thursday May 28 at 10:30 am. New topics every month.
Reserve Your Space for the Mature Driving Classes
A two day Mature Driving class is scheduled for May 12th & May 13th, from 9 a.m.
until 1 p.m.9
Tournament Hills students design cars after learning about transportation
Story and photos by Mike Sturman
Beaumont Unified School District
BEAUMONT, CA - It was a car show like never before. The designers went all out to show off what they could do. There were race cars, 4x4s, flame paintjobs, a Hummer and even vehicles decorated with flowers.
These were concept cars that came from the minds of children. About 96 of them from Tournament Hills Elementary School, where Kindergarten teacher Crystal Tax wanted to find a way to wrap up a Language Arts unit on transportation.
"We were finishing up the unit on Wheels All Around Us and I was trying to find a fun way to do it," she said. So, with a little help from YouTube, Tax came up with the idea for the Kindy 500. She sent home a note asking parents to work with the kids to design and build a car out of cardboard that they could carry around - a car that would reflect their child's personality.
Cathy Heals' daughter, Bella, 5, really got into it. "She did the whole thing," Cathy said. "She put on the flowers, glitter and little rhinestones."
By Nicole Laffey
Executive Director
Y.A.P.S.
YUCAIPA - Hi am Snickerdoodle! I am a male Silky Terrier mix who is about 3½ years old. I'm a very loving, playful guy, and I get along well with everyone. My life was a bit rougher before I met the folks up at YAPS. When I was picked up by a Riverside Animal Control, I was pretty torn up.
When I came to YAPS I had drains and sutures along my backside, it took weeks for me to fully recover. Now I am fully recovered and ready to find a new loving home, won't you come by and see me today?
Yucaipa Animal Placement Society
11937 13th Street
Yucaipa, CA 92399
(909) 790-1440
To learn more about YAPS visit their website.
Click Here For YAPS
YUCAIPA - When my daughter Michelle asked, "dad would you run in the Run Through Redlands 5K with Haylee?" I said sure. But inwardly, I groaned.
With a trick calf muscle in my left leg that tightens up unpredictably and limits me to hobbling along when it acts up, how could I run a 5K? And how could I keep up with my long-legged 10-year-old granddaughter, who I knew wouldn't want to just "walk along" leisurely with dear old grandpa.
Knowing her, she had her mind set on winning. In fact, when she heard that I had agreed, she said, "Grandpa I want to win a medal."
BANNING - Carol's Kitchen volunteers set up their produce stand at the Banning Art Hop on Saturday. The money they raised in sales went to help feed an ever-growing population of hungry in the Pass Area.
"We are up by 40-percent in the people we feed," said Jim McConnell, executive director, who started Carol's Kitchen in 1998 with Jim and Arlene Ragan, to honor their daughter Carol Ragan, who in 1996, was struck and killed by a drunk driver near Bellevue, Washington.
Throughout the Pass Area in several locations, Carol's volunteers feed about 3,000 people a week, McConnell said. Many call first and ask if it's OK for them to come by and eat.
"We tell them that anyone who is hungry is welcome, and they can eat all they want until they are full," McConnell said.
He said that donations are down because of the downturn in the economy, which has left many people - including an alarming increase in families - struggling to survive.
That is why the organization is reaching out to people who aren't facing such dire times, and asking them for help. Carol's Kitchen, Inc. (www.carolskitcheninc.org), has set up a website in which donations can be made online through JustGive.org / Guidestar.org.
"No donation is too small," said McConnell. "We want to make it as easy as possible to help people support Carol's Kitchen, so we can continue feeding the hungry with dignity and compassion."
To learn more visit Carol's Kitchen at: Click Here For Carol's Kitchen Website
By Bob Otto / Staff Photographer
YUCAIPA - Check out Thunderbirds girls and boys track teams in action at the 15th Annual Flying Tiger Invitational at San Jacinto High School on Saturday, April 15.
YUCAIPA - Emily Stickney was running a bit late. Well, she was running real late. But she arrived at San Jacinto High School with just enough time to get on the track and win a race.
"My coach (Jason Carney) called me and said the race was going to start," Stickney, a junior, said. "I pulled into the parking lot, put on my shoes and got in line and ran."
Maybe Stickney should try this being late tactic more often, because when the 1,600 meters run was over, she had sprinted past the lead runner in a blistering pace in the final 100-meters to easily win her preliminary heat.
The Yucaipa High girls and boys track teams took part in the 15th Annual Flying Tiger Invitational, Saturday, April 25 at San Jacinto High School.
The Flying Tiger hosts 40 of the top track and field teams from throughout Southern California. Although, no results were available, many of the Yucaipa team members performed well.
In the discus, Erin Randolph launched a long throw in the preliminary rounds. "My throws feel good," said Randolph, "good and powerful. There is really good competition here, good athletes. It's exciting to compete against them."
In a preliminary heat in the 110 meters low hurdles, sophomore, Jordan Morris, finished first with a time of 15:82 seconds. "I got a great start and got my rhythm," Morris said.
Another sophomore, Tyler Swinford, had a strong performance in the 200 meters run, even though he had some trouble at the start.
"My block slipped at the start, but in the straight away I got my full stride going," said Swinford, who took first in his heat.
(I have no results to post, but I was told by a meet official that results will be posted on DYSTATCAL. I've provided a link for you to check results.)
Annual Powder Puff football game was a night of flag football fun between the junior and senior Yucaipa High girls.
(Check the bottom of the story for the photo gallery of all the action.)
By Bob Otto / Staff Photographer
YUCAIPA - First came the pre-game senior jokes at the expense of the juniors, such as: "How many juniors does it take to go to the store? Answer: "Two. One to go inside, and one to convince their mom to drive them there."
Then came spirited fun, an intense flag football game, some pretty good hitting, some garishly hairy-legged cheerleaders, and a great crowd that appreciated the action. And when Friday night was over, the Yucaipa High senior girls' had administered a pretty good thumping on the junior girls in the annual powder puff football game at Thunderbird Stadium.
By halftime the seniors led comfortably, 24-6, mainly because no one could stop senior Megan Allen. The swift wide receiver caught everything thrown in her direction - often with two and three defenders hanging on her - and finished the first half with three touchdown receptions.
But the game was less about the score, and more about just a great night for kids from the two classes to have a lot of fun.
Although, the guys - especially the coaches on both sides - took the game pretty seriously. (Well, actually the girls did too. The game was called "flag" football, but at times instead of pulling flags off running backs and receivers, some pretty hard tackling took place on both sides. Much to the delight of the "cheerleaders.")
Before the game, Senior Head Coach, Terryn Thompson, exuded an air of confidence.
"We've got a good, strong defensive line, and the same quarterback, Courtney Spitz, and wide receiver, Megan Allen, from last year, who combined for 300 yards. They will take them (juniors) apart. We're going to shut them out, 21-0."
But on the junior side, Head Coach, Harrison Stewart, thought the haughty seniors might be a bit too full of themselves.
"We're more disciplined and we're not expected to win," he said. "We've got that mad, underdog feeling. The seniors think they're top dog, so they will be over confident. I think we will win by 21-14."
Well, maybe next year coach.
"Do you know how many juniors it takes to stop Megan Allen?" Answer: "Too many to count."
Be sure to check out the girls and "cheerleaders" in action Click Here For Photo Gallery
BANNING - Little Eva Rincon, a bright and vivacious seven-year-old, eagerly greeted people on San Gorgonio Avenue with, "would you like a jar opener?" on Saturday afternoon.
Eva was helping her mom, Nicole Gonzales, who works for the Bank of Hemet, promote the bank during the annual Banning Cultural Alliance, Art Hop, a festival that from all the children's activities taking place, was created especially with kids in mind.
"The Art Hop is family oriented," said Gin McMillin, event coordinator for the Banning Cultural Alliance. "Kids are the future of art. They come to art with open minds and their creative juices are flowing. We are demonstrating all the different aspects of art and how it enriches our lives."
BANNING -Banning Chief of Police, Leonard Purvis, has his calendar marked for late December, early January because that's about the time when he and his police department will move into their new home - the new Banning Police Station.
The new station is currently under construction on Ramsey Street just one block east of San Gorgonio Avenue in the heart of downtown Banning.
When finished, the new station will dwarf the old station by about three times the size, and in a sense unite the department.
"The new station will have about 30,000 square feet," said Purvis. "We have some departments separated and spread apart. Now we will be all under one roof and we are really proud of that."
Because the new police station has plenty of room, it will also allow the department to grow as the city grows, he said.
"It will be nice," Purvis said. "We are all excited about it."
SAN JACINTO - The Yucaipa High School boys and girls track and field teams will participate in the 15th Annual Flying Tiger Invitational, Saturday, April 25 at San Jacinto High School.
The Flying Tiger hosts 40 of the top track and field teams in Southern California, and year in and year out is a great meet for spectators.
The action starts at 8 a.m. with the girls' 100 meter prelims, and finishes at about 4:30 p.m. with the boys' 4x400 meter relays.
San Jacinto High School
500 Idyllwild Drive
San Jacinto, CA 92583
DIRECTIONS:
- Take Interstate 10 toward Beaumont.
- Exit at Beaumont Ave. / Highway 79 off ramp.
- Follow Hwy 79 to Ramona Expressway.
- Turn left on to Ramona Expressway.
- Turn right on to State Street.
- Turn left on to Idyllwild to San Jacinto High School.
It's about an 18-mile drive.
Courtesy Photo
By Patrick Fite,
Public Information
(909) 389-3333
YUCAIPA - Crafton Hills College (CHC) priority summer registration is April 20 - May 10, while open registration begins May 11.
New students who complete the matriculation process (application, assessment test, and meeting with a counselor) can begin registering during priority registration May 8. New students who have not completed assessment testing and have not seen a counselor should go to the CHC Counseling Office.
Students who have attended college previously should see a counselor for assessment test waiver eligibility.New students should first apply online under "Admissions and Records," menu selection "Apply to College." The web address is: www.craftonhills.edu
CALIMESA - For book lovers and parents searching for ways to keep their children entertained while also learning something, then the Calimesa Library is the place to go. Check it out, you'll be pleased in the service this little library provides.
BOOKS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED
Maybe you are looking for new authors to read, or perhaps there is an older title by your favorite author you have missed. This is a new section at the Calimesa Library dedicated to highlighting books which may have been overlooked. Come in and discover such titles as:
"Thud!" By Terry Pratchett
"Match Me if You Can" By Susan Elizabeth Phillips
"The Family" By Mario Puzo
"Watchman" By Ian Rankin
HOT OFF THE PRESS
"Batman: Heart of Hush" By Paul Dini
"Kids Letters to President Obama" By Bill Adler
"Look Again" By Lisa Scottoline
"Deadlock" By Iris Johansen
"Boneman's Daughter" By Ted Dekker
"Borderline" By Nevada Barr
YUCAIPA - The popular Activity Guide Spring/Summer 2009 May through August edition is available at the City of Yucaipa Community Services Department.
This handy guide contains activities for kids, adults, families, and seniors - an abundance of recreational activities and classes for everyone.
"We are offering many new and exciting classes this summer," said Todd Gutjahr,
Community Services Supervisor.
Here's just a few examples:
- Youth Dance
- Youth Art Classes
- Golf Camp
- Science Camp
- Youth / Adult Sports
- Yoga
- Jazzercise
- Adult Dance
- And Much More...
To pick up your copy, stop by Community Center at Yucaipa Community Park, or browse through the Activity Guide on line.
Click Here To See Activity Guide
City of Yucaipa Community Services
34900 Oak Glen Road
Yucaipa, CA 92399
(909) 790-7460
www.yucaipa.org
YUCAIPA - The Thunderbirds boys' volleyball team's success this season comes as a bit of a surprise to head coach, Gail Diliberto. A look at the team's roster finds it loaded with seven underclassmen - including four sophomores.
Perhaps a year away from reaching their full potential? Not hardly. This team's future is now.
After defeating the Redlands East Valley Wildcats in three straight games in a Citrus Belt League match on Thursday, 25-19, 25-15, and 25-10, the T-Birds have a 9-1, CBL record, 11-4, overall. And they are tied for the top spot in the league with A.B. Miller of Fontana.
"We're in a little of a rebuilding year," said Diliberto. "I have three sophomores on the floor."
The T-Birds defeated A.B. Miller in its first meeting, 3-2, on April 6, but then suffered a let down on Tuesday, when Redlands (9-3 CBL) defeated them in three straight games, 25-19, 25-23, and 25-22.
"We just did not come out ready to play," Diliberto said. "Next Wednesday at Redlands we will have to be really tough to get that win."
The Yucaipa Relay for Life celebrates cancer survivors and remembers those who have lost the battle to the disease.
YUCAIPA - Debby Lowe has a wish: "In my lifetime I would like to see cancer eradicated so my daughter will never hear the words, 'you've got cancer.'"
Lowe has heard those words twice. She's a 23-year cancer survivor - a survivor of two types of cancers. From personal experience, she knows that hope and determination go far in the battle against the dreaded disease.
Lowe serves as the event chairperson for the Yucaipa Relay For Life. She's been involved with the Relay since its inception in 2004.
"It's a fun-filled event that empowers and celebrates life," Lowe said, "and it raises money so we can continue to have survivors."
YUCAIPA - The Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market will host a blood drive today in the Bloodmobile from 2 to 7 p.m.
The market is located at 33341 Yucaipa Blvd. on the southwest corner of Yucaipa Blvd. and Oak Glen Road.
For more information call LifeStream at (800) 879-4484
News Release
By Nancy Kay
The SUN Newspaper
REDLANDS - Friday night and you are looking for something to do? Consider this; take a walking wine tour of historic Downtown Redlands. On April 24, 2009, the San Bernardino Sun and the Redlands Daily Facts are sponsoring the Vintage Redlands 2009 Tour.
Admission is $50 per person and all proceeds benefit the Citrograph Scholarship Fund. Enjoy the fine pairings of finger foods with select wines. At the end of the journey
experience elegant desserts, champagne and music while relaxing under the stars.
For tickets or more information call 1-888-494-9044.
News Release
By Patrick Fite,
Public Information
(909) 389-3333
YUCAIPA - The Crafton Hills College (CHC) Foundation's "Feathers, Fringes, and Fedoras" gala, held April 18, drew a crowd decked out in a variety of 1920's styles that included elegantly adorned women in gowns, feathers, pearls, and an assortment of beautiful hats arriving to the event with guys dressed in everything from Elliot Ness vests to double-breasted jackets and spats to "Great Gatsby" formal attire.
Throughout the San Bernardino Hilton Grand Ballroom, there were smiles of appreciation among the 210 guests as they admired each others' imaginative fashion statements.
This was the CHC Foundation's sixth annual spring gala dinner and dance. During the course of the evening, proceeds from a live auction, opportunity drawing, and private donations were raised for student scholarships and textbooks.
More than $87,000 was raised, the most ever for the event.
The presenting sponsor of the event was the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Other VIP sponsors were Kitchell/BRj, Tilden-Coil Constructors, William B. Harrison, and Steinberg Architects.
"Caring for the community is more than a slogan for the tribe," said James Ramos, chairman of San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, the presenting sponsor. "It is a way of life."
YUCAIPA - For Harriet Link, Flag Hill Veterans Memorial Park is the most beautiful and serene spot in the Yucaipa Valley.
Link is the president of Laureate Iota Kappa of Beta Sigma Phi, a worldwide women's service organization that does a whole lot of good deeds. Including planting trees on Arbor Day.
When it came to choosing a spot to plant her "Purple Smoke" tree, she didn't have to think twice.
"This is our community service project," Link said. "Flag Hill is so peaceful and serene. It will be planted in a spot where it will be framed by the snow capped mountains."
On Friday, April 24 at 8 a.m., Link with the help of Janet Morgan from Morgan's Creek Nursery, will plant her tree. But this isn't the first tree that Link has planted at Flag Hill. Last year, she also chose the little park at the corner of Fremont Street and Yucaipa Boulevard as the location for an Arbor Day tree.
Why? Because along with helping to beautify the park, Link, a Navy veteran (1958-'62), wanted to honor Yucaipa Valley veterans. And Flag Hill, with its tranquil setting, and upper section dedicated as a memorial to the military men and women from Yucaipa who lost their lives while defending our country, is a superb place for doing just that, she said.
But she does have a concern: Why - since the park is proclaimed a veterans park - aren't Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies held at the Flag Hill?
Instead, both veterans' ceremonies are held at Yucaipa Community Park.
"They should be held at Flag Hill because it is a veterans park honoring our veterans," she said. "Why is it at (Community Park)? I've been there (for Memorial Day and Veterans Day) and there were only a handful of people there. It should be back at Flag Hill."
The public is invited to Friday's event. The planting will take place at 8 a.m. sharp, said Link.
How do you feel about veterans' ceremonies being held at Community Park? Do you think veterans deserve to be honored at a "veterans park" instead? Do you think the city should bring back veterans' events to Flag Hill?
We welcome you comments, so please send us your thoughts.
bob.otto@inlandnewspapers.com.
News Release
By Mike Sturman
Beaumont Unified School District Reporter
msturman@beaumontusd.k12.ca.us
(951) 845-7441
BEAUMONT, CA - The 2009 Beaumont High School yearbook, Live Oak, has been inducted into the Walsworth Publishing Company's Gallery of Excellence.
James Ducat, an English teacher and the yearbook advisor, accepted the honor for the staff.
"I would like to recognize Brooke Renna and Samantha Scissons, the current editors-in-chief, along with Maggie Olson and Christina Erzinger, for the Gallery of Excellence Award the yearbook staff won for the 2008 Live Oak," Ducat said.
"Of course, last year's entire staff worked on the book, including students Anthony Hernandez and Shailyn Griffiths, who graduated last year. I also would like to thank the administration, without whose support, our yearbook could not be where it is today."
Press Release
By Mike Sturman
Beaumont Unified School District Reporter
msturman@beaumontusd.k12.ca.us
(951) 845-7441
BEAUMONT, CA - The Beaumont Unified School District is planning a Kindergarten Round-Up on May 7 at which parents can enroll their children in Kindergarten for the 2009-2010 school year. The event, which runs from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., will be held at the Beaumont Civic Center, 550 E. Sixth St.
Parents will be able to meet some of the teachers while their children engage in various hands-on activities.
To register a child for Kindergarten, parents or guardians must have copies of the child's:
• Immunization record;
• Birth certificate;
• Physical/dental screenings, sponsored by the Beaumont/Cherry Valley Rotary;
• Proof of residency;
• And the parent's driver's license/I.D.
For more information regarding enrollment contact Centralized Enrollment, 650 Magnolia Ave. in Beaumont or call (951) 769-0180
Dr. Barry Kayrell, Superintendent
(951) 845-1631 (Ext. 309)
bkayrell@beaumontusd.k.12.ca.us
http://www.beaumontusd.k12.ca.us/home.htm.
YUCAIPA - The Fellowship Ride had a 47-year history and was known throughout the Inland Empire as a horse ride that equestrians did not want to miss. But three years a go the ride was discontinued.
But a comeback is in the making. For on Sunday, May 3rd the first annual "Judy Locke Friendship Ride," will take place at Wildwood Canyon State Park in Yucaipa.
The two rides will be similar with one exception, said Ray Monroe, vice president of the Supporters of Wildwood Canyon State Park. "We are supporting hiking, whereas they (Fellowship Ride) didn't do that," he said.
Monroe said that naming the ride after Judy Locke pays homage to her many years as a revered horseman in the Yucaipa Valley. Locke passed away last year, Monroe said. But her memory lives on.
"She was a member of the Yucaipa Valley Riders Club and she was involved early on with the park," Monroe said. "She was a driving force for horsemanship in Yucaipa and Calimesa and she rode throughout these canyons since the 1940s. Judy was really a friend to everything equestrian."
By Nicole Laffey
Executive Director
Yucaipa Animal Placement Society
(909) 790-1440 office
(909) 557-6047
Yucaipa Animal Placement Society Seeks Public Help for Injured Pomeranian Dog
YUCAIPA - The Yucaipa Animal Placement Society is seeking public donations to help defray the medical expenses of a badly injured, four year-old, female Pomeranian, affectionately named Star.
Star was run over by a car somewhere in the Coachella Valley. After hitting the dog, the driver of the car took her to several local veterinarians for help. The veterinarians, refusing to help without a large down payment, forced the women to turn the animal over to the local shelter.
Upon admittance it was determined with x-rays, that Star had sustained massive pelvic injuries. She was confined to a small cage and forced to wait with no treatment, except for pain management, until her owners would hopefully reclaim her.
Five days later, with no sign of her family, Star's fate seemed dismal. The shelter, unable to release her except into a veterinarian's care, was forced to contemplate euthanasia.
Letter To The Editor:
FOREST FALLS - Thank you to the Redlands Daily Facts for providing us the inside view of what actually happens at the rave events put on at the Pharaoh's Lost Kingdom site.
If all we had was the Police official who maintained that "the majority of the young people behaved themselves" we would have been left grossly misinformed. A free and vigorous press is needed so that we can be given a clearer vision of behavior that creates an environment where Security Guards are assaulted, drugs are rampant, and sex is literally performed for the crowd on the dance floor.
We the people need to know how uncontrolled this atmosphere is so that we can force our local politicians to put an end to this type of behavior in our community. Thank you for doing what newspapers do best, informing the populace so that we can collectively demand change.
Pat Meagher
Forest Falls
(909) 794-0117
YUCAIPA - She had her rise ball hopping. She stayed ahead in the count. She zeroed her pitches on the corners. She simply was on top of her game.
And when the last out was recorded, right-handed Jessica English had pitched a one-hitter and shut out the visiting Eisenhower Eagles of Rialto, 3-0, in a Citrus Belt League softball game, Tuesday.
With the win, the Lady T-Birds upped their CBL record to 6-1, 16-6 overall. That keeps them in second place, just a game behind front-running Redlands in the eight-team league.
"She did a great job today," said Yucaipa Head Coach, Dave Kivett. "She stayed within herself. It's really important for a pitcher to get ahead (in the count) and she did that. And she allowed her defense to help her."
Letter to the Editor:
By Dan and Fanny D'Amelio
YUCAIPA Over the past five years, four thousand American military men and women have died in Iraq and thousands have come home permanently maimed. How are we in Yucaipa honoring their sacrifice?
Are we having a Memorial Day ceremony at Flag Hill Veterans Memorial Park?
Unfortunately, we are not. Instead, we are having the ceremony at our city's community park, where there is no veterans memorial.
The entrance to Flag Hill Veterans Memorial Park is at Fremont St. and Yucaipa Blvd, and the park's memorial is at the far end of the park. The memorial was constructed by a Yucaipa Marine veteran and city constable, Jim Martines.
At the memorial, concrete steps lead you up to a high, columned arch , which bears the insignias of each of the armed forces.
The arch opens to a large area that is lined by trees, and facing you is a long, curved wall with a bronze plaque containing the names of the men from this community who were killed in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. There are also three bronze ground tablets near the entrance to the park to commemorate those missing in action.
Located at the highest point in Yucaipa, with a panoramic view of the city, this veterans memorial is one of the most beautiful in the Inland Empire.
Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies used to be held on California Street. But, through the urgings of Fanny D'Amelio, Helen Ruggles and Betty Martines, Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies were held at Flag Hill for the first time in 2000.
The ceremonies again were held at Flag Hill in 2001, 2002 and 2003, with increasing community attendance. The attendance, in fact, reached more than 300, which was a far larger number than when the ceremonies were held on California Street
In 2004, the city spent $380,000 renovating Flag Hill Veterans Memorial Park, and in the process, unfortunately, landscaped over the handicap parking near the memorial.
And it was in that year that the Veterans Day ceremonies were held instead at the Community Park, where they have been held since.
But there is sufficient parking available at Flag Hill Veterans Memorial Park and at nearby streets for Veterans and Memorial Day ceremonies to be held there. Golf carts could be made available for the handicapped for the one-minute ride to the memorial area.
It is regrettable that Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies are not being held where they should be: at Flag Hill Veterans Memorial Park.
However, since the decision has been made to have the ceremonies at the Community Park, we ask that all of us on Memorial Day go to Flag Hill Veterans Memorial Park and, at least momentarily, pay our respects to those who sacrifice so much for our nation.
Dan and Fanny D'Amelio
12151 Fremont St. #54
(909) 790-4219
Two Beaumont senior citizens fell victim to what police are calling a nationwide telephone scam, involving a caller who asks for money and claims to be their grandson, police said this week.
One of the victims said the caller claimed to have been in a car accident and was arrested for driving while under the influence. He needed money to be bailed out of jail. The same caller asked the victim to send more money to pay for damages to the other vehicle involved in the crash.
The second victim received a call from someone who said he was also in a car accident in a rental vehicle and needed money.
Beaumont police urged residents to be wary when asked for money over the phone. Police offer the following tips:
- Verify the identity of the relative prior to sending money by contacting the relative directly or calling another family member to verify the information.
- Ask personal questions that a stranger would not be able to answer.
- If the caller claims to be in jail, a hospital or another location, call the business directly to verify the information.
- Call the police if you have been a victim.
- Visit the Better Business Bureau's website for more information, www.bbb.org.
melissa.pinion-whitt@inlandnewspapers.com
CALIMESA - On Thursday, March 19 at 3:30 p.m., the Canyon Middle School PTSA will begin its transformation into the Mesa View PTSA.
A meeting will be held at the Canyon Middle School library. Everyone's contributions are needed, so don't hetitate to attend the meeting and contribute.
Contact Kandie Foust by Email: kandiej1@aol.com.
By Nicole Laffey
Executive Director
Yucaipa Animal Placement Society
YUCAIPA - Hi! I'm Pepper, and I'm a 2 1/2 year old female Russian Blue mix. I'm very sweet and loving, and I get along well with people and animals alike.
I was declawed by my former owner, so if you're worried about your furniture I would be a good choice for you. Just remember that without claws it wouldn't be safe to let my go outside. Hope to meet you soon!
Click Here To Visit YAPS Website
YAPS
11937 13th St.
(Yucaipa Blvd. and 13th Street)
Yucaipa, Ca. 92399.
(909) 790-1440
Courtesy Art
CALIMESA - The votes are in for the new Mesa View Mascot with students from Canyon, Park View, Wildwood, Calimesa, Valley, and Dunlap submitted almost 400 votes.
The mascot choices were: Mustangs, Bobcats, Bears, and Lions.
With an overwhelming return on 205 votes, Mustangs was selected as the new Mesa View mascot.
Mesa View Middle School, Yucaipa-Calimesa's long-awaited new middle school, is set to open Monday, August 17, 2009, according to the Mesa View website.
YUCAIPA - On Thursday, April 2, the California Department of Education and the State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell named Canyon Middle School a 2009 California Distinguished School.
Of nearly 2,400 California middle and high schools, only 341 were eligible for this recognition. And of 261 schools earning the esteemed prize, only six came from San Bernardino County.
Carol's Kitchen will celebrate 11th year of feeding the hungry and honor Carol's birthday
Carol's Kitchen News Release:
By Jim McConnell,
(951) 845-9202
BEAUMONT, CA - At the Beaumont Presbyterian Church--702 Euclid Ave., on the corner of Seventh & Euclid Beaumont, CA 92223--from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Carol's Kitchen volunteers will serve chicken enchilada casserole to the hungry in order to honor the late Carol Ragan's birthday and celebrate the organization's 11th anniversary.
The actual date of Carol Ragan's birthday is April 20 while the Carol's Kitchen anniversary is on April 21. The organization will host its commemoration on April 22, 2009.
"Chicken enchilada casserole was Carol's favorite dish," says President and Executive Director Jim McConnell, "only her mother Arlene could make it the way she liked it."
CALIMESA - The dream of starting a Calimesa Community Garden is digging ever closer to its goal after a "Dig the Community Garden Kick Off," fundraiser was held last Saturday and Sunday at Morgan's Creek Nursery in Calimesa.
The event drew interested gardeners - from novice to master - from throughout the Yucaipa Valley. The main hang up in launching the garden this Spring on land donated for use by the Calimesa Seventh-day Adventist Church, is a water meter.
A water meter that will cost about $8,000 to install. But during the fundraiser, about $1,500 was raised toward that goal. But as important as raising money, nine gardeners have agreed to form a "gardening commune" of sorts.
And more are welcome to join. The gardeners will grow produce in their backyards, in pots on their patios, and anywhere they've got a plot of land to grow fruits, herbs, and vegetables.
Then in a fellowship of sharing, they will exchange produce with one another during the harvest seasons.
"Some have whole backyards and some have containers," said Executive Director, Nanette Peykani, of the Calimesa Chamber of Commerce. "We want people to keep signing up who want to start their own garden and share with others."
OAK GLEN - Brad Powell has his ears and eyes always on the lookout. He hears about a zebra up for adoption and he jumps at the chance. He sees on Craig's List that exotic snakes and cages are for the take on the cheap side, he makes the call.
Powell is the Animal Curator at the Oak Tree Village Animal Park in Oak Glen. He's always trying to add to the park's collection of animals, birds, and reptiles. Especially those facing extinction because of man's intrusive nature.
Recently he added three Brush Tailed Bettong to the park's growing exotic collection of animal and bird species.
The Bettong measures about eight to 10 inches high when it stands on its hind feet. They come from the Marsupial family, and actually look like miniature kangaroos. But in their native habitat in Australia, the Bettong is fast disappearing.
"Because of European's introduction of fox, dog, cats, and rabbits into the Bettong's habitat, they are disappearing," Powell said. "They are less than 1% on the continent now. They used to be 60%."
Press Release:
Contact, Earnest Siva
(951) 849-4676
siva@dishmail.net
Southern California's American Indian music and other traditional arts featured at Art Hop
BANNING - At Banning's annual downtown Art Hop on Saturday (April 25), people can learn the art of making and playing traditional musical instruments from Native American cultures. They also can learn about Southern California cultures, stories, and songs directly from Native American culture bearers.
Last year more than 3,000 people celebrated a day of cross-cultural arts events in downtown Banning led by the Banning Cultural Alliance. Dorothy Ramon Learning Center was indeed in the Center of it all.
This year, the Center is again offering special weekend events that save and share Southern California's American Indian music and other traditional arts:
GOURD RATTLE WORKSHOP with Gerald Clarke Jr., Cahuilla artist.
Bird songs and other traditional music are accompanied by these beautiful-sounding instruments made from gourds.
By Diane Mierzwik
Director
The Writers' Gallery
YUCAIPA - Do you have a young writer in your family? Does that writer need an outlet for his or her creativity? Then don't miss the Children's Creative Writing Class.
The class will be taught by Noelle Kiely, a credentialed teacher and reporter for the Yucaipa News Mirror. As a mother she understands the importance of allowing children an outlet for their creativity.
Your child will spend the time writing, editing, and polishing a piece of writing to "publish" with friends and family.
Give your child the gift of his or her dreams, the pursuit and expression of his or her imagination.
WHEN: Thursday, April 23rd
TIME: 3:30 - 5:30 pm
SECOND CLASS: Saturday, April 25th, from 10 a.m. - 12 Noon.
COST: $20 per participant, but only 10 spots available!
Please call or email for your spot.
Sign-up now by contacting:
THE WRITERS' GALLERY
A Community of Writers and Artists
35081 Yucaipa Blvd.,
Yucaipa, CA 92399
(909) 953-9493
www.thewritersgallery.net
writersgallery@yahoo.com
Diane Mierzwik
Director
Writers' Gallery
writersgallery@yahoo.com
(909) 953-9493
www.thewritersgallery.net
Carl Bernhardt plays the Mountain Dulcimer during the grand opening ceremonies for the Oak Glen Schoolhouse Museum and park, Saturday, April 18.
By Bob Otto / Staff Photographer
OAK GLEN - Carl Bernhardt from Riverside drove to one of his favorite spots in California on Saturday, Oak Glen. More specifically, the Oak Glen Schoolhouse Museum.
For years, Bernhardt and his group, the Mountain Dulcimer Club, have met, practiced, and performed at the schoolhouse. But for eight months while the museum grounds were undergoing a makeover, he and his friends had to idle their time away, waiting for the reopening.
On Saturday it finally happened. And there performing was Bernhardt for the dozens who attended the grand opening.
"These are nice improvements," Bernhardt said. "And we still have our stage for our performances."
Now, Bernhardt and his Mountain Dulcimer Club will practice for their performance during "Mountain Music Sunday" to be held on the schoolhouse grounds in October.
The Oak Glen School House Museum
11911 S. Oak Glen Rd.
Oak Glen
(909) 797-1691
BEAUMONT - One in three people will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime according to the American Cancer Society. Yvonne Mendoza of Beaumont is one of them. But Mendoza is also a cancer survivor: A 19-year survivor.
And on Saturday and Sunday, she along with hundreds of other survivors celebrated their survival with family, friends, and supporters during the sixth annual San Gorgonio Pass Area "Relay For Life" at Beaumont Sports Park.
But Mendoza also knows the pain that cancer can inflict on loved ones. "I lost my mother-in-law, Rosemary Mendoza, and many friends," Mendoza said. "That is why we are out here. We never give up hope."
The American Cancer Society Relay For Life unites communities across the country to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against a disease that takes too much.
The statistics are staggering. Over 500,000 people die from cancer each year. About 1,500 each day. More people die from cancer than any other cause of death.
"We've got to keep fighting for a cure so our kids don't have to grow up and hear those awful words, 'you've got cancer,'" Mendoza said.
REDLANDS - The Redlands East Valley Wildcats defeated the Yucaipa Thunderbirds in a match up of two of the top teams in the Citrus Belt League. The Wildcats came away with a 12-2 victory. See the two teams in action.
OAK GLEN - Willard and Jackie Chapman were honored with the "Citizen of the Year," award by Devon Riley, president of the Oak Glen Apple Growers Association in a special ceremony during the Oak Glen School House Museum Grand Opening ceremonies, Saturday.
The married couple was recognized for their many years of living in and their contributions to the mountain community, and to the apple growers association.
Willard Chapman has served as president and secretary of the association, and Jackie Chapman has served as treasurer, said Riley, who presented the couple with a plaque and a journal filled with remembrances of life and times in Oak Glen.
"The worse part of living up here are the bears," said Willard Chapman with a chuckle. "The best part was coming home from work to Oak Glen. I saw it (Oak Glen) the first time in 1941. I appreciate and feel privileged to have lived up here all these years."
OAK GLEN - Kent Colby remembers some 50 plus years ago sitting at his small wooden desk in the one-room schoolhouse. The little stone schoolhouse built in 1927 had but one teacher who taught students from grades one through six.
"Those were good times," Colby said. "We had one teacher for all the grades. We were like a big family with the older kids helping the younger kids."
Now, the 66-year-old Oak Glen native, who owns Laws Coffee Shop, marvels at the transformation the school and the school grounds has undergone during eight months of renovation.
On Saturday, Colby was on hand for the reopening of the Oak Glen School House Museum, and for the groundbreaking for a replica of the original 1888 wooden schoolhouse.
"I love it," Colby said. "It's nice because lots of people can enjoy it like we enjoyed it."
REDLANDS - The Showdown between the Thunderbirds and Redlands East Valley Wildcats for a leg up in the Citrus Belt League baseball race for the championship turned into a one-sided slugfest as the Wildcats unleashed a potent hitting attack to throttle the Thunderbirds, 12-2, at REV on Friday.
Both REV (5-1 CBL, 10-5 overall) and Yucaipa (4-1, 16-2) came into the game as the league's two hottest hitting teams. REV had outscored league opponents 57-20, while Yucaipa was nearly as dominate by outscoring its opponents, 49-12.
Yucaipa held a 2-1 lead heading into the Wildcats bottom of the third. But from then on the game belonged to the REV as they strung together five hits, and took advantage of two walks, a wild pitch, and two throwing errors to score seven runs. Redlands finished the game with 10 hits.
Handed the big lead, junior left-hander, Griffin Murphy, didn't squander it. Murphy allowed three hits in the first three innings, a double by Matt Davidson that scored Matt Marnati, who led of the game with an infield single. And another double by Davidson in the third, who later scored on a wild pitch for Yucaipa's second run.
But from the fourth through the seventh innings, Murphy held the Thunderbirds hitless by mixing a good fastball and curve ball to finish with nine strikeouts, while walking six.
On the defensive side, Yucaipa committed three costly errors that allowed REV to score six unearned runs, which as it played out, were too much to overcome.
Lefty, Frank Martin started for Yucaipa and went five innings allowing seven hits, while striking out four. But the Wildcats got to him in that disastrous third inning, as they roughed him up for those seven runs - five earned.
Grady Espinosa took over for Martin in the sixth. With two outs, Espinosa appeared to be out of the inning by coaxing an infield ground ball, but the ball was misplayed putting runners on first and second.
Espinosa then walked Murphy to load the bases. And that brought hot-hitting Ryan Boeger to the plate. Boeger, who had already singled twice and knocked in a run, then belted a grand slam home run over the right field fence to finish off the Wildcats' scoring.
OAK GLEN - Jim Riley of Oak Glen has some great information and photos about Wednesday's "Tax Day Tea Party," or as it goes by another name, "Taxed Enough Already," that was held at the corners of Yucaipa Blvd. and Oak Glen Road.
News Release:
By Tina L Holm
Fundraising Coordinator
YHS Music
YUCAIPA - Yucaipa High School and the 9th grade Campus is holding their Annual Fund Raising Spaghetti dinner this weekend April 18th In the Yucaipa High multi-purpose room from 4-8 p.m.
The event will feature a dinner and music program and a silent auction.
The Elks Lodge of Yucaipa Will be make a donation at the event to the High Schools Music Program.
Yucaipa Valley residents are encouraged to come, partake in a great meal, see and hear some outstanding musical entertainment, and support the schools in these trying economic times as they strive to fund much-needed programs.
For more information, please contact Beverly Alvarado at (909) 835-5939.
Yucaipa High School
33000 Yucaipa Blvd.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
(909) 797-0106
To visit Yucaipa High School website go to this link:
News Release:
By Trent Lacey
T.O.A. Math and Science K-12
YCJUSD
SAN BERNARDINI, CA - Yucaipa Calimesa Joint Unified School District Students performed exceptionally well this year at the RIMS County Science and Engineering Fair at the National Orange Show April 14 and 15, 2009.
Two hundred ten schools participated and YCJUSD students received nine bronze, five silver, and three gold awards medals. Additionally one student was awarded the top elementary award, the prestigious Sweepstakes Trophy.
Garrett Dotson was one of two gold medals awarded to Ridgeview Elementary School. This year there were only three Sweepstakes awards presented, one for Junior Division, one for Senior Division, and one for the Elementary Division.
YUCAIPA - For 19 Yucaipa-Calimesa school district students, attending the RIMS County Science and Engineering Fair and competing with students from schools in Riverside, Inyo, Mono, and San Bernardino counties was a thrill. But at the same time very challenging, and a bit nerve wracking.
One such Yucaipa student, was 12-year-old Kaitlyn Lattuca, a sixth grader from Crafton Hills Elementary, who presented her project, "Odor and Absorption in Small Animal Bedding."
Kaitlyn's project earned her a silver medal during the awards ceremony on Wednesday night.
After the two-day competion at the National Orange Show in San Bernardino on April 14 -15, Kaitlyn agreed to a question & answer session to help us better understand the science and engineering fair, and what the competition was like.
Q: Students were told during orientation that the interview with the judges was very important. What was that like?
Kaitlyn: "Being interviewed by the judges is nerve racking. It is still fun. Many kids and I think so."
Q: Also, students were told that answering the "unknown" questions could go far in their evaluation. What was that like?
Kaitlyn: "The questions were more surprising than difficult. The questions were mostly like would you continue or expand your project. I feel your nerves are controlling your brain,so you stutter and I think that you just think of something good and fast."
YUCAIPA, CA - Having a mug like Jack Nicholson's is catapulting one look-alike into instant fame. Norman Deesing is an art teacher and sculptor who's been scoring acting gigs thanks to his uncanny resemblance to Jack Nicholson.
Though he's looked like the A-lister since the '70s, it wasn't until a hair transplant that he truly became Nicholson's doppelganger.
Deesing's look is so spot-on, paparazzi and fans are constantly bombarding him for pictures and autographs in public.
Crazed fans have almost crashed their cars at the sight of him and even when he admits he's not Nicholson, they don't believe him.
Sometimes Deesing goes along with the hype and is really nice to fans, so as not to give the real Jack a bad rap.
Deesing's appearance has led him to play Nicholson in various music videos and TV shows where he's either surrounded by women or at a Lakers game.
Though most producers are pleased with his look, Deesing is actively working to perfect his Nicholson voice so he can sound more authentic.
News Release:
BEAUMONT - The Prevent Child Abuse Riverside County, San Gorgonio Consortium will be sponsoring a free Internet Safety Training for Parents. This workshop will be in conjunction with the SAFE (Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement) Team.
As a parent, you will be fully informed about the very real and potentially life-threatening dangers that are accessible to your children in the world of the Internet.
DATE: Wednesday, May 13, 2009
TIME: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
PLACE: Mt. View Multi-Purpose Room, 200 Cougar Way, Beaumont, CA 92223. A free light dinner will be provided.
News Release:
By Lori Valdepena
Community Services Assistant
Yucaipa Senior Center
909-797-1177
909-797-7597 fax
Cup O Joe Coffee Club
April 24th 10:00 am Veronica Ramos from Somerford Place will be here to talk about normal aging. Understand the difference between memory loss and normal aging. Please call to sign up.
Loma Linda East Campus Hospital and The Rehabilitation Institute will present a series of educational topics. Call office to sign up for presentation.
Thursday May 28, 2009 10:30 a.m.
Movement Disorder. Dr. David Swope, MD Neurology will discuss movement disorders, diagnosis, and non-surgical and surgical treatment options. New topics every month.
YUCAIPA - First baseman Wyatt Padgett batting in the number four spot went 4-for-4 and drove in four runs to lead the Thunderbirds to a 20-1 victory over the visiting Fontana Steelers, Thursday, in a Citrus Belt League game.
But Padgett had plenty of help in the hitting department. Yucaipa pounded out 19 hits off a three pitchers highlighted by a first inning in which the Thunderbirds sent 12 batters to the plate and scored 8 runs to put the game away early.
The Yucaipa bats erupted again in the third by scoring 7 runs punctuated by shortstop Chad Erickson's triple down the left field line that drove in two runs.
Fontana scored its lone run in the third when third baseman, Chris Ramirez, doubled with two outs to drive in Vince Westbrook, who had walked.
The win gives the Thunderbirds a perfect 4-0 record in league play, 16-1 overall. While Fontana's record stands at 3-3 CBL, 8-9 overall.
In its four league games, Yucaipa has outscored the opposition by a whopping 49 to 12 margin. But they may need to keep those bats hot, as tomorrow they travel To Redlands East Valley in a showdown with the Wildcats with first place on the line.
The Wildcats have proven they can swing the bat as well. In establishing its 4-1 CBL record, REV has outscored league foes 57-20. The Wildcats lone loss came on Thursday to Carter of Rialto, 10-11.
With a win over REV, Yucaipa can take over the top spot in the eight-team CBL.
Junior, right-hander, Pedro Cota, pitched a complete game, scattering 10 hits over seven innings, along with 6 strikeouts, while walking 2. The win gives Cota a 4-0 record and he picked up his second win in league play.
Game time Friday in the showdown with the REV Wildcats is 3:15 p.m.
YUCAIPA: Frank Martin 1-4, 2RBI; Matt Davidson 1-3, RBI; Todd Seymour 1-1, RBI; Wyatt Padgett 4-4, 4 RBI; David Petta 1-1; Chad Erickson 2-4, 2 RBI; Cody Meservey 1-2, 2 RBI; Matt Hardison 1-1; Matt Marnati 3-4, triple; Taijuan Walker 3-3, 3 RBI; and Brian Derryberry 1-2, RBI.
FONTANA: Juan Gutierrez 1-3, Chris Ramirez 2-3, RBI, 2 doubles; Adam Huizar 1-4, Adrian Lopez 1-1, Corey Wilson 2-3, and Chris Enriquez 2-3.
Citrus Belt League Standings / Overall
- Yucaipa 4-0 / 16-1
- Redlands East Valley 4-1 / 9-5
- A.B. Miller of Fontana 3-2 / 8-6
- Carter of Rialto 3-2 / 5-6
- Fontana 3-3 / 8-9
- Redlands 2-3 / 9-7
- Eisenhower of Rialto 1-4 / 2-10
- Rialto 0-5 / 4-9-1
YUCAIPA - About 300 sign and flag waving protesters gathered at the corners of Yucaipa Boulevard and Oak Glen Road Wednesday night for a "Tax Day Tea Party," to peacefully demonstrate their opposition to what they believe to be overly high taxation and over spending by both the California and federal governments.
YUCAIPA - Over 300 people rallied at the corners of Yucaipa Boulevard and Oak Glen Road Wednesday carrying signs and waving flags. They gathered in protest of what they consider government spending and taxation gone woefully off course.
They along with millions of Americans across the country staged "tax day tea party" protests demanding less taxation and less government spending.
Lloyd Rekstad, a 22-year Yucaipa resident and schoolteacher, organized the protest. He's unhappy with the Obama administration's bailout policies and spending, but what really gets his ire, is what's happening in Sacramento.
"I am sick of all the taxes and the big budget bill that was just passed," said Rekstad about the $13 billion in state tax hikes enacted in February. "I got involved because I'm fed up with what's going on in Sacramento. My primary focus is Sacramento because that's where we can affect the change."
Oak Glen School House Museum
("Dressed in White" by Ethel Courtney was the 2006 Oak Glen School House Museum Association's Photo Contest Winner.)
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
OAK GLEN - San Bernardino County Special Districts invites everyone to come to the Re-opening Ceremony of the Oak Glen School House Museum Park on Saturday April 18, 2009.
The ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m. and will include the groundbreaking for the replica of the 1888 Wooden Schoolhouse. Oak Glen's "Citizen of the Year" will be honored and refreshments will be served.
The park features new playgrounds for older and younger children, a climbing rock, new bathrooms, cement walkways, new picnic tables, a small stage and a heritage apple orchard.
Special activities are planned for your enjoyment on Saturday and Sunday at the School House Museum and all around Oak Glen. Watch for special Apple Blossom Festival signs that announce the events and participate in the first night hike of the season at Los Rios Rancho.
For more information please call the Museum 909-797-1691.
Oak Glen Schoolhouse Museum
11911 S. Oak Glen Road
Yucaipa, CA 92399
909-797-1691
oakglenshmuseum@yahoo.com
YUCAIPA - The Yucaipa Lady T-Birds and the Redlands Terriers battled in a Citrus Belt League softball game on Tuesday with Redlands coming out on top, 5-1. See the team in action.
CALIMESA - The organizers of the Calimesa Community Garden project are hosting a "Dig the Community Garden Kick Off," fundraiser on Saturday and Sunday, April 18 and 19, at Morgan's Creek Nursery.
Visitors can learn more about the community garden and make donations toward nursery items in which the proceeds will go toward the garden project to pay for such expenses as the installation of a water meter.
The purpose of starting a community garden are to strengthen our sense of community, provide locally grown produce, serve as a learning lab for churches and schools, strengthen neighborly ties, and help provide for needy families.
On Saturday the event runs from 8 to 5 p.m., and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For more information call Dennis Morgan at (909) 795-2049.
To learn more about the Calimesa Community Garden project, visit www.morganscreeknursery.com and www.calimesacommunitygarden.org.
Morgan's Creek Nursery
381 W. County Line Road
Calimesa, CA 92323
(909) 795-2049
YUCAIPA - A group critical of what they call, out-of-control federal spending will stage a protest rally at the corner of Oak Glen Road and Yucaipa Blvd. today (Wednesday) from 5 to 7 p.m.
The Yucaipa "Tax Day Tea Party" protest rally is being held in conjunction with the "Nationwide Tax Day Tea Party," sweeping across the country today in protest of federal government spending, and is intended to serve as a warning to politicians that if they propose and vote for new tax hikes, the Tea Party group will organize to vote them out of office.
For more information, visit www.taxdayteaparty.com.
News Release
BEAUMONT - The Beaumont Cherry Valley Recreation and Park District is providing live music for kids and adults today (Wednesday) from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Noble Creek Community Park.
The event also includes In-N-Out Burger. So great food can be had along with enjoying the music.
Tickets must be purchased from the Beaumont Cherry Valley Recreation and Park District located at 390 W. Oak Valley Parkway.
For more information call (951) 845-9555
Courtesy Photo
By Patrick Fite
and student Kathryn Ryank
YUCAIPA - Crafton Hills College (CHC) student Via Carmina Aquino, whose hometown is 7,000 miles away in the Philippines, made new friends and found comfort in her new surroundings by getting involved in student life at Crafton Hills.
Aquino is the 2009 president of the CHC chapter of Phi Beta Lamda (PBL) and was recently listed in "Who's Who in California PBL."
"CHC feels like a tight-knit family, and it is less intimidating to get involved," Aquino said. "All your efforts here, no matter how small, contribute to the community as a whole."
She believes that involvement on campus will lead to success, and she encourages students to get involved.
"Getting involved gives you an edge," Aquino said. "You can only learn so much in a classroom. Being involved in campus life will prepare you for the job market by helping you learn organizational skills and time management."
YUCAIPA - It costs about $1,500 a year for a Yucaipa High School cheerleader to participate on the cheer squads. And in today's struggling economy, that can cause a major hardship for some families.
So Marc and Anissa Leinbach, who own "Exclusive Cars and Trucks," decided that they would do something to help by hosting a fundraiser over the next two weekends - which includes Friday, Saturday, and Sundays - April 17,18, and 19; and April 24, 25, and 26.
"The football, basketball, and baseball teams seem to have (sponsors), but not a lot is done for the cheerleaders," said Marc Leinbach. "Since we're right across the street (Yucaipa Blvd.) from the high school, we decided to do our part."
During the fundraiser, the cheerleaders will perform some of the routines that garnered them a USA Spirit National Cheerleading Championship at the Anaheim Convention Center in March.
The Leinbach's will donate a minimum of $1,000 regardless of how much money is raised over the course of the two weekends, Marc Leinbach said.
On hand will be 50 certified trucks and cars for visitors to peruse, and raffle drawings will be held for free oil changes and free gas cards, Marc Leinbach said.
"The (public) will get to see the national championship cheerleaders perform, and we will have free food and drinks," Marc Leinbach said.
The event will run from 3:15 to 6 p.m. on Fridays, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sundays.
Exclusive Cars and Trucks is located at 32881 Yucaipa Blvd. (across the street from Yucaipa High School.) The Leinbachs have been in business for 15 years, and along with car and truck sales, the dealership provides complete automotive service.
For more information call the Leinbachs at (909) 790-8686
YUCAIPA - The Thunderbirds baseball team sports a 15-1 record. They've won two prestigious tournaments - the USA Classic in Millington, Tennessee, and the Chino Tourney, and they finished with a 4-1 record in the San Diego Lions Tournament.
And recently, USA Today ranked Yucaipa #4 among the nation's "Top 25" baseball teams.
But when it comes to the Citrus Belt League and facing their rivals from down the hill in Redlands, well, it's business as usual - meaning both teams come at each other hard.
And that was the case on Tuesday, as the Thunderbirds and Redlands Terriers engaged in a CBL battle with Yucaipa hanging on to claim a 10-7 victory.
By Bob Otto / Staff Photographer
T.J. Berka, Staff Writer
Posted: 04/14/2009 11:51:24 PM PDT
YUCAIPA - The goal for most freshmen in varsity athletics is to get some playing time, make a contribution and generally put up with whatever pranks concocted by their upperclassmen teammates.
Not for Kodi Lavrusky. Her goal was to score goals - lots of them - for the Yucaipa girls soccer team.
Lavrusky did that and then some by scoring a school-record 44 goals while providing the offensive firepower for a team that advanced to the CIF-SS semifinals for the first time in school history.
"I felt I could come in and do pretty well, but I didn't think I would score 44 goals or anything like that," Lavrusky said. "I wanted to break a school record, but I didn't expect to."
By T.J. Berka / SUN Staff Writer
tj.berka@inlandnewspapers.com
REDLANDS - The Redlands softball team seems to be alive and doing well, much to the dismay of its Citrus Belt League foes.
After barely finishing above .500 during the nonleague portion of its season, the defending CBL champions seem to be rolling again, taking down second-place Yucaipa 5-1 at Redlands High School on Tuesday.
Senior shortstop Savannah Garcia provided much of the offensive firepower for the Terriers (10-4, 5-0), delivering two-run singles in the third and fifth innings and providing more than enough offense to give Yucaipa (13-6, 3-1) its first league loss.
In the process, Redlands made the statement it was yearning to make.
"We wanted to show that we were still the best team," Garcia said. "We wanted to show that we aren't going to go away."
News Release
By Kristen Bennett
Inland Empire WE Connect VISTA
(909) 980-2857 ext 206
kbennett@ieuw.org
A WE Connect Outreach Event to Connect Real People to Real Resources
RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA - Inland Empire WE Connect is hosting an outreach event to prequalify and connect people to numerous programs and services all through the WEb Connector tool and with the help of volunteers at the Archibald Library in Rancho Cucamonga on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
From the First Lady of California's office, Maria Shriver's WE Connect campaign is a pioneering public/private partnership designed to help California's working families become more financially secure by connecting them to important programs and resources.
Several of these programs, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), are available and accessible to working families but many are not taking full advantage of them. This leaves over a billion dollars on the table each year that could have been used by working families right here in California.
This statewide effort will connect families with the information and tools they need to take full advantage of these valuable resources, empowering them to live their dreams.
News Release
By Cristina DaValle
Marketing Specialist
cdavalle@gssgc.org
Girl Scouts Earn Silver Award by Working to Improve Community
REDLANDS, CA - Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council is proud to recognize Kelsey Appis, Becca Blanton, Alice Samuel and Jessey Singh for achieving the highest honor for Girl Scouts ages 11 to 14, The Girl Scout Silver Award.
Appis, Blanton, Samuel and Singh of Girl Scout Troop 236, in Mentone, earned The Silver Award by working together to "Help Homeless Pets."
Silver Award recipients must complete a community service project that helps them explore careers, build and gain leadership skills and make a commitment to self-improvement, as the girls of Troop 236 have done.
Prevention experts feel stronger laws are needed to protect youth.
News Release
The ARCHS Institute
Applied Research for Community Health & Safety
REDLANDS - During an emergency meeting held last Friday, the Redlands City Council agreed to initiate litigation against Pharaoh's Lost Kingdom Theme and Water Park. It also decided to pursue revocation of the conditional use permit that has allowed the defunct family theme park to host raves attended by thousands of youth.
Councilman Pete Aguilar told his fellow council members he went on a ride-along with police during a recent rave and observed objectionable behavior.
"We are looking for (recreational) outlets for young people but we have an obligation to look out for the safety of this community," said Aguilar.
This came as good news to Paul Mupo of Yucaipa, whose 14-year old daughter was one of two who went missing from a February 14 rave at Pharaoh's.
YUCAIPA - A mandatory project in sixth grade sparked an interest in science that at the time Amanda Leon didn't realize she had.
Now, two years later and in eighth grade at Parkview Middle School, 14-year-old Amanda's eyes light up as she talks about her science project, "Anti-Bubble PH."
Amanda was among 19 students from the Yucaipa-Calimesa school district in grades fourth through eighth, who competed in the RIMS Inland Science & Engineering Fair at the National Orange Show in San Bernardino on Tuesday.
Schools from Riverside, Inyo, Mono, and San Bernardino counties were represented by their top science and engineering students.
Experienced judges evaluated the projects for scientific method, content, clarity of presentation, and originality. And for those students and projects judged as the very best, state competition awaits them in Los Angeles in May.
Amanda's project has to do with the substances acids, bases, and neutrals, she said. She has assembled research data, graphs, a journal, and constructed a double-sided display board about five feet high. It's neatly and professionally organized and filled with scientific data. And it took hours of work to complete.
"You have to like research and you have to think processes through, and be very organized," said Amanda, who has competed in county competition for three years. "When I found anti bubble on the Internet, I decided that's what I wanted to do, and that got my interest in science going."
News Release:
By Melody Funk
Newell Nurseries
YUCAIPA - Newell Nurseries will host its 3rd Annual Artisans' Faire-Art in the Garden Saturday, April 18th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday, April 19th, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The event will featuring the artists of VisionQuest - The Center for Creativity
We will host 30 artists, including painters, glass blowers, potters, basket makers, and jewelers, all displaying their creations in our Glass House.
Wine & Cheese ― Meet the Artists Reception
Saturday, April 18th, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Please come and meet the artists while you enjoy a selection of wines and cheeses courtesy of VisionQuest and Newell Nurseries.
Reservations are required for the evening reception.
Please call Newell's at (909) 797-9210, or email us at newell2002@gmail.com with your name, number of people in your party, and a phone or email contact.
Newell Nurseries
34017 Yucaipa Blvd.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
(909) 797-9210
www.newellnurseries.com
Sports Release:
By Brad Mayo
YVYSO Website Manager
YUCAIPA - The Yucaipa Valley Youth Soccer Organization starts its Spring Soccer Games this Saturday, April 18. All Spring games are played at the Jerry Lewis Regional Soccer Complex off Oak Glen Road (just southwest of Yucaipa Regional Park.)
The age divisions include: six, age 6-under teams, 12 under 8 teams, 10 under 10 teams, 8 under 12 teams, 6 under 14 teams, and 6 under 18 teams for a total of 616 players.
This is the organization's fourth season playing Spring Soccer and each year the number of signups continue to rise. In the first year, the league had only 150 players. In the Fall season the YVYSO has about 1200 players.
The public is invited to watch some really great soccer. Just come to the park with your lawn chair and enjoy seeing some of Yucaipa Valley's finest athletes in action.
For more information call (909) 790-5455, or visit the league's website: www.yucaipasoccer.org.
YUCAIPA - If you like top-flight fastpitch softball, then mark your calendar for tomorrow (Tuesday) at 3:15 p.m.
The Yucaipa Lady T-Birds and Redlands Lady Terriers - two of the Inland Empire's best softball teams - meet in a Citrus Belt League clash at Redlands High School.
This is a game fastpitch fans don't want to miss. Redlands sits on top of the CBL with a 4-0 record, 9-4 overall.
But Yucaipa's nipping at the Terriers' heals in second place at 3-0, 13-5 overall. A win can vault the Lady T-Birds into the top spot.
Do you like good pitching?
Three of the CBL's best will showcase their talents. Yucaipa has rise ball throwing, Jessica English, and drop ball master, Tracy Hampton. While Redlands counters with hard-throwing, Kim Bruins.
Bruins (6-4) is off to a great year. She is among the league leaders in several categories: Bruins is #1 in ERA at 1.05; #2 in wins with 6; #1 in RBI with 22; #3 batting average of .476; and #2 in slugging percentage at .738.
But Yucaipa fans don't despair. The Lady T-Birds counter with English (7-3) and her #1 hold on strikeouts with 105; #1 in wins with 7 (tied with Kayla Uphold of Fontana); #3 in ERA at 1.57.
And then there's Hampton (5-2), who is #4 in wins with 5, along with an ERA of 2.73.
In the hitting department, Bruins will meet up with the likes of Yucaipa batters who hold the numbers 2, 3, and 4, RBI spots. Megan Allen is #2 with 20 RBI; Kati Olinger, #3 with 12; and Ali Reykdal is #4 with 11.
This promises to be one good fastpitch softball game.
Citrus Belt League Standings
Redlands 4-0
Yucaipa 3-0
Fontana 3-1
A.B. Miller 1-2
Rialto Carter 1-3
REV 1-3
Rialto 1-3
Eisenhower 1-3
YUCAIPA - The Yucaipa City Council meets tonight at 6 p.m. at City Hall. Several items on the agenda will be considered including:
- A municipal code amendment establishing citywide location restrictions for sex offenders.
- A request by the Yucaipa Valley Chamber of Commerce to waive all rental fees for the use of the Yucaipa Community Center for its monthly membership luncheons.
- The installation of photovoltaic solar energy systems in new residential construction.
Yucaipa City Hall
34272 Yucaipa Blvd.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Phone (909) 797-2489
Fax (909) 797-9203
www.yucaipa.org.
Click Here For City Website
Hours:
Monday -Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
News Release:
By Diane Mierzwik
Director
The Writers' Gallery
YUCAIPA - On Saturday, April 18th from 3 to 5 p.m., the Writers' Gallery opens its doors to the public for a free lecture presented by author, Betty Odak.
All Odak wanted was to live the American Dream. What she discovered was a financial nightmare, brought on by her own misinformation, poor planning, and lack of foresight.
When Marriage and Family Counselor Betty Odak moved to California from Kenya, she made a lot of financial mistakes--mistakes that could have been easily avoided. After filing for bankruptcy in 2007, Betty decided to share her insights, lessons, and personal victories in her new book:
Before, After & Beyond Bankruptcy (Pleasant Word, 2009).
During this free lecture, Betty will discuss her experience with publishing, hard lessons she's learned, and how you to can fulfill your publishing dream.
Book will be available for purchase after the lecture.
For more information, Contact:
Diane Mierzwik
Director
Writers' Gallery
writersgallery@yahoo.com
(909) 953-9493
www.thewritersgallery.net
YUCAIPA - The Thunderbirds baseball team finds itself flying high these days as USA Today has the T-Birds ranked #4 in the nation among the "Super 25" high school baseball teams.
The USA Today's Top Four
1. Jesuit of Tampa, FL (19-0)
2. Lakeland, FL (16-0)
3. Bellaire, Houston, TX (17-1-1)
4. Yucaipa ( 14-1)
The T-Birds only loss came on April 8th, 4-5, to Torrey Pines of Rancho Buena Vista in the San Diego Lions Tournament where the T-Birds finished 3-1.
While #4 in the nation is fantastic, Yucaipa also claims the #1 spot in the CIF-SS Division II Coaches' Baseball Ranking as of April 6.
1. Yucaipa
2. El Toro
3. Crespi
4. Notre Dame/Sherman Oaks
5. Palos Verdes
6. Upland
7. Arcadia
8. St. Francis
9. San Luis Obispo
10. Vista Del Lago
However, Yucaipa will have its hands full this week with three Citrus Belt League foes trying to shoot them down from their lofty perches. On Tuesday, Yucaipa hosts Redlands (9-6, 2-2 CBL); Thursday they host Fontana (8-7, 3-1 CBL); and on Friday they take on the always tough and current CBL leader Redlands East Valley (8-4, 3-0 CBL) at REV.
Yucaipa currently has a 2-0 record in CBL play. All three games are scheduled for 3:15 p.m.
News Release
By Lori Valdepena
Community Services Assistant
Yucaipa Senior Center
909-797-1177
909-797-7597 fax
Sign up today and share your talent!
Talent Show at the Yucaipa Senior Center. Do you sing, tell jokes, love to dance or act? All are welcome to sign up at the senior center office. Talent show is scheduled June 11, 2009 at 2:00 pm.
Crafts And Crete-A-Card Class
Have fun making seasonal crafts and hand made cards. Class starts at 9:00 am. April 23rd make a beautiful and fun spring time card. All supplies provided. Be sure and sign-up in the office.
Educational Topics By Loma Linda Campus Hospital
On Thursday May 28, 2009 10:30 a.m. Loma Linda East Campus Hospital and The Rehabilitation Institute will present a series of educational topics. Call office to sign up for presentation.
Movement Disorder Dr. David Swope, MD Neurology will discuss movement disorders, diagnosis, and non-surgical and surgical treatment options. New topics every month.
Cup O Joe Coffee Club
April 24th 10:00 am Veronica Ramos from Somerford Place will be here to talk about normal aging. Understand the difference between memory loss and normal aging. Please call to sigh up.
Contact: Margo Martin
Phone: (909) 797-1177
Yucaipa Senior Center
12202 First St.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
Press Release:
By Sabrina Warren
swarren@kvcr.org
(909) 384-4347
SAN BERNARDINO, CA - We know fighting climate change seems like a daunting task, but little changes can add up and make a big impact. Using more energy efficient light bulbs, bringing reusable bags to the grocery store and planting trees are all simple ways to go green and help preserve the earth for future generations.
91.9 KVCR believes in protecting our earth too. That's why we're making it easy for listeners to give back and watch their dollars grow. In celebration of Earth Day 2009,
91.9 KVCR is doing its part to make the world a greener place ... and you can too! On Wednesday, April 22 were inviting the community to listen to 91.9 KVCR, and make a contribution to help rebuild our forest. 91.9 KVCR has set a goal of planting 1,000 trees in partnership with the American Forests.
News Release:
By Kathy Knox, Director
Norton Younglove Senior Center
908 Park Ave., Calimesa 92320
(909) 795-2287
Free " Music Thru the Decades" - April 23
Join DJ, Joe Phillips, as he travels through several decades of music in one afternoon. Hear your favorites hits by your favorite artists from the 40's, 50's and 60's . . .maybe even some 20's and 30's tunes. If you like, sing along or dance.
The event is free. An optional lunch is available, by reservation, for a $3 donation. Call the day prior if you would like the lunch which features vegetarian lasagna. Information and reservations: (909) 795-2287.
Free Blood Pressure and Glucose Screenings
Meet Sherry Logan Morris, health educator for Family Service Association. Free blood pressure and glucose screenings will be available on Friday, April 24, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m. at the Norton Younglove Senior Center, 908 Park Avenue in Calimesa. For information, contact the Center at (909) 795-2287.
Fabulous Palm Springs Follies--Wed., May 13 -- $72
It's the "Fabulous Follies" in an extravaganza of music, dance and comedy! Join our tour from the Calimesa Senior Center to the heart of Palm Springs.
Stacia Glenn, Staff Writer
Posted: 04/10/2009 05:53:10 PM PDT
RIVERSIDE - A former Calimesa councilman admitted Friday that he violated his probation when he used a computer to arrange a hotel meeting with a man.
Riverside County Superior Court Judge James T. Warren sentenced Jon Winningham to report back to his courtroom Friday to begin his two-year prison sentence.
Winningham, 53, was arrested in September after being caught chatting online with a law enforcement decoy.
After the former councilman pleaded guilty in early 2007 to 13 counts of possession and intent to distribute child pornography, he was given five years of probation and ordered not to use a computer.
The defense requested home confinement and probation instead of prison time because of several health issues Winningham suffers from.
"If Mr. Winningham goes to jail or prison, he may very well not survive," said attorney Brent Romney, adding that Winningham "has been a very good citizen for 50 years."
YUCAIPA - Parents needed good time management skills to make it too all the Easter egg hunts and special events for children on Saturday in Yucaipa and Calimesa.
At 10 a.m. the Yucaipa Community Park's annual Easter Egg Hunt drew over 1,000 children for a frenzied dash after 5,000 eggs scattered about the park's lower lawn. Then parents loaded up their kids and drove over to the Yucaipa Library for another egg hunt at 11 a.m.
And lastly, a final trip to Calimesa and the Norton Younglove Senior Center for the "Spring Bunny Bash," at 11:30, which included a puppet show, goodie bags, and treats.
At Yucaipa Community Park, volunteers arrived at 7 a.m. to scatter the eggs evenly about the grounds for children ages' infant to 10.
Despite cold, drizzly weather, the turnout was good. Special eggs contained coupons that were redeemed for gift baskets. And the East Bunny was on hand to pose for pictures.
Ten volunteers from the Sigma Nu Fraternity of Cal State San Bernardino helped set up the event and place the eggs about the grounds.
"We got up at 5:30 this morning to get here and help the kids and the community," said George Audisho of the fraternity. "It's so much fun for us to see the kids having fun."
If you read the SUN this morning, on the front page you couldn't miss the story, "Without A Home," by Debbie Pfeiffer Trunnell / Staff Writer, and the emotional photo of Norma Banuelos, and her 6-month-old daughter, Kaylee, taken by Rick Sforza, SUN Photo Editor.
The story and photo depict the agonizing plight many families find themselves in during these hard economic times. It's time for those of us more fortunate to dig deep and help the less fortunate.
To Read, "Homeless families on the rise at area shelters," click here
To make a financial or food contribution consider the following organizations:
The Salvation Army
746 W. Fifth St.
San Bernardino
(909) 888-1336
Mary's Mercy Center
641 Roberd's Ave.
San Bernardino
(909) 889-2558
Frazee Community Center
1140 W. Mill St.
San Bernardino
(909) 889-4424
And of course, within our own Yucaipa Valley, many churches and organizations reach out to help those in need. So, please consider them as well.
YUCAIPA - Yucaipa Community Park will be the scene of hundreds of kids scrambling and hunting for eggs this morning starting at 10 a.m.
Children will be divided into age groups to abide by a fairness factor. And "special" eggs with prizes will be scattered about. Don't forget your Easter basket, and don't be late - the hunt starts right at 10.
Yucaipa Community Park
34900 Oak Glen Rd.
(West of Bryant Street.)
By Mike Cruz / Staff Writer
on April 10, 2009 5:01 PM
Former Calimesa City Council member Jon Winningham was sentenced Friday to two years in state prison for violating his probation, a charge stemming from his child pornography conviction in 2007.
The 53-year-old Winningham was sentenced in Riverside Superior Court. He is required to surrender to authorities April 17 to begin his sentence.
Winningham, who served 12 years on the council, was arrested Sept. 22 on suspicion of violating the terms of his probation by using the Internet to arrange a hotel meeting with a man. Judge James T. Warren said he was particularly dismayed that Winningham had used a library computer.
A judge ruled in 2007 that Winningham could not use a computer after he pleaded guilty to 10 felony counts of intent to distribute child pornography and three misdemeanor counts of possession of child pornography.
YUCAIPA - My granddaughter has called me, "stingy." My grandson rolls his eyes when I start in with, "when I was a kid we didn't get spoiled by all the stuff you kids have today."
Stingy? No. I much prefer to think of myself as "frugal."
I drive a 1998 Honda Accord with 248,431 miles on the odometer. And I plan on adding at least another 100,000 miles to that total. Now, my wife refused to drive the car a year ago, and I begrudgingly agreed to co-sign for a new 2008 Hyundai Elantra that she is still giddy over.
Me? Not so much. "The Accord runs just fine and will last us at least a few more years," I tried to argue in vain.
By Joshua Fox
Branch Manager
Calimesa Library
NEW HOT OFF THE PRESS
"Always Looking Up" By Michael J Fox
"Long Lost" By Harlan Coben
"Unincorporated Man" By Dani Kollin
"Cursed: A Regan Reilly Mystery" By Carol Higgins Clark
"Just Take My Heart" By Mary Higgins Clark
NEW CHILDREN'S NON-FICTION
"Wolfsnail: A Backyard Predator" By Sarah C. Campbell
NEW CHILDREN'S FICTION
"Becoming Billie Holiday" By Carole Boston Weatherford
"The House in the Night" By Susan Marie Swanson
"A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever" By Marla Frazee
PRETEEN STORY TIME ... Wednesdays @ 4:30PM - 5:30PM
Every Wednesday Miss Mary will read several books on specific subjects. The
next Preeteen Program will be on Wednesday April 22, and the subject will be centered around Kites.
Compassionate Yucaipan comes to the aid of those in need
YUCAIPA - Even at 76, John Arnett is a strapping man with broad shoulders. He looks as though in his younger years he could have been a hard-running fullback.
But Yucaipa Valley folks don't know "Big" John - as he's affectionately known - for his physical size.
It's the size of his heart that they admire.
When the elderly need a helping hand, Big John's there. If some one needs a kind word, an encouraging smile, a hug, his hearty signature laugh, or transportation for a doctor visit or a trip to the grocery store, Big John's the guy they call on.
Arnett serves as a Senior Companion, providing friendship and assistance to adults and seniors, some who are isolated and lonely.
Big John's been a volunteer in the Senior Companion Program based in San Bernardino for 2 1/2 years. The qualifications?
"Compassion," Arnett said. "It's the biggest thing. You have to have the heart that goes out to people who need your help."
YUCAIPA - The City of Yucaipa and Yucaipa Disposal, Inc. are pleased to sponsor a City Clean Up Day, FREE OF CHARGE on Saturday, April 11, 2009 - 8 AM - 12 Noon.
City of Yucaipa residents may dispose of household trash at the conveniently located drop-off site at the corner of California Street and Avenue "G". The local drop-off site will have containers for the following material categories: (1) trash and, (2) metals.
Depending upon the type of material that you are disposing of, you will be directed to the appropriate container. To receive service by noon, please be in line no later than 11 a.m. - the temporary drop-off site will close promptly at 12:00 noon.
Cars, trailers and pickup trucks up to 3/4 ton will be allowed to drop off trash for FREE. (No trucks with trailers allowed.)
YUCAIPA - The Thunderbirds boys and girls swim teams hosted the Fontana Steelers in a swim meet on Thursday at the Seventh Street pool.
For more information, visit the YHS swim team website at: Click Here For Web Site
CALIMESA - Calvary Chapel of Moreno Valley had their hitting shoes on Thursday as they defeated the Mesa Grande Academy Cardinals, 14-4, in girls softball action in a Victory League game at Mesa Grande.
The win puts Calvary Chapel at 8-2 overall, 4-1 in league, while Mesa Grande's record stands at 3-6 overall, 1-1 in league.
YUCAIPA - The Seventh Street Park Rehabilitation - Phase II project consists of retrofitting a partially finished concrete pad for three covered basketball courts with
lighting.
In addition, the project will include a modular skate park and retrofitting several gazebos with additional landscaping around the "formal" main gazebo to enhance its use for special events.
On Thursday, the concrete pad for the skate park was being readied for a resurfacing of epoxy coating.
By Rose Sanders,
Events and Tours Coordinator
Rileys at Los Rios Rancho
(909) 797-1005
info@losriosrancho.com
OAK GLEN, CA - On Saturday, April 18th, Rileys at Los Rios Rancho will celebrate spring with an Apple Blossom Hoedown. The Riley's Mountaineers band will pick, fiddle, and sing traditional bluegrass, Western, and gospel tunes.
Dance caller Dennis Riley will lead guests through old-fashioned, kick-up-your-heels polkas, quadrilles, reels, and waltzes.
The hoedown is just part of Oak Glen's annual Apple Blossom Festival, taking place April 18th and 19th. The hoedown begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7.50 for kids 3-12, and can be purchased online or by calling Rileys at Los Rios Rancho.
For information about the hoedown log on to www.losriosrancho.com or call (909) 797-1005. For more about the Festival, check www.oakglen.net.
Program is being organized to invite returning Catholics back to the Church
News Release From:
St. Frances X. Cabrini Church
12687 California St.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
By Kirsten Thorstad,
Pastoral Coordinator
YUCAIPA - A new program, sponsored by St. Frances X. Cabrini Catholic Church, is being organized to invite Catholics back to the church. The outreach program is a response to those who may feel alienated from the church or wish to update their understanding of the faith.
Especially during these difficult economic times, people may feel a need to rediscover their spirituality. The process is entitled "We Miss You" and is based on a similar program utilized in the Archdiocese of Omaha, Nebraska.
Membership has increased in the parish with the opening of the new church building in October. The qualities of welcome and hospitality remain imbedded in the community members. But there are people missing; people who are essential to building up the reign of God within St. Frances X. Cabrini Church.
We want them to know that we are here to listen to their concerns, grievances or whatever keeps them away. Healing may be needed for some.
Good Friday Service sponsored by the Yucaipa - Calimesa Ministerial Association
News Release
By Michael Medley
YUCAIPA - The theme for this year's ecumenical Good Friday Service is "Majesty," defined as supreme authority - sovereignty - or Christ as ruler of the universe.
Many members of the community look forward with great anticipation to the annual service which brings together pastoral leaders from over 19 local churches of varying faith traditions.
The event will be held Friday, April 10th at 12 noon at Saint Frances X. Cabrini Catholic Church in Yucaipa.
Powerful and thought provoking testimonies from all who speak have highlighted past years. In unity, the Ministerial Association prays together on this holy day, recognizing the sacrifice of Jesus as he journeyed to the cross.
Derry Opposes Attack on Low-Income Senior and Disabled Residents
News Release:
From the Office of Supervisor Neil Derry
County of San Bernardino, Third District
www.sbcounty.gov/derry
By Steve Hauer, Deputy Chief of Staff
(909) 387-4855
SAN BERNARDINO, CA - Reaffirming his commitment to seniors, Supervisor Neil Derry strongly opposed the termination of the Senior Home Repair Program.
Designed to help low-income seniors and those with permanent disabilities who own their own home to correct code violations and/or health and safety problems, the program offers qualified applicants one-time grants in the form of labor and materials.
The costs associated with building ramps, handrails and other aids for those with disabilities can be onerous. For those on a fixed income, making necessary repairs to big ticket items like a roof can be prohibitively expensive.
Elderly and disabled residents are some of our most vulnerable and are susceptible to fraud and abuse.
If you're an enterprising, can-do kind of person who's contemplating a new career or a side venture, why not consider starting your own small business?
In today's discouraging job market, plenty of boomers are doing just that, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is ready to help...
To read the rest of the story.
Click Here
CALIMESA - The Calimesa Community Garden group will meet Thursday, April 9, at 5:30 p.m. at Morgan's Creek Nursery.
Dennis Morgan, who is spearheading the drive to start a community garden, said that the public is encouraged to attend the meeting.
The group will discuss a grand opening ceremony for the garden site on Fourth Street donated for use by the Calimesa Seventh-Day adventist Church.
Also on the agenda is finalizing plans for a "Dig the Community Garden Kick Off" event to be held on Saturday and Sunday, April 18 and 19 at Morgan's Creek Nursery.
Morgan said that the drive to start a community garden is proceeding well. But that about $8,000 must be raised to install a water meter at the garden site.
"The meter is the big task," Morgan said. "It's the only thing holding us back right now."
He added that organizations, such as the the Yucaipa Valley Kiwanis Club and the Rotary Club of Yucaipa, have volunteered to try and help raise funds for the meter.
The Calimesa Community Garden has its own website at www.calimesacommunitygarden.org. with additional information available at www.morganscreeknursery.com.
For more information call Dennis Morgan at (909) 795-2049.
Morgan's Creek Nursery
381 W. County Line Road
Calimesa, CA 92323
YUCAIPA - The Lady T-Birds defeated Redlands East Valley, 12-7, in Citrus Belt League play Tuesday. See the girls in action as they rallied from at 4-1 deficit to take the win.
News Release:
By Jim Bowden
Park Interpreter
Gilman Historic Ranch
and Wagon Museum
BANNING - So you think you have an eye for catching nature's Springtime beauty?
Then join in the Wildflower photo contest sponsored by the Riverside County Regional Park and Open Space District.
Visitors to the following parks - Bogart (Banning), Box Springs Mountain Reserve, Hidden Valley Wildlife Area, Hurkey Creek, Idyllwild Park, Lake Skinner Recreation Area, Louis Robidoux Nature Center, Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park, Rancho Jurupa Park, and the Santa Rosa Ecological Reserve - are eligible to take photos and enter the contest.
You can email, mail, or upload your photos to http://photos.riversidecountyparks.org. Online voting will take place from April 27 through May 6. Five winners selected by online viewers will receive prizes and will have their photos featured on the county park's website.
A limit of ten photos can be submitted via email to promotions@riversidecountyparks.org. Entries will be received through April 24.
For more information, call 1-800-234-7275.
BANNING - James Bowden has a balancing act on his hands. On the one hand, he needs to preserve the historic value of the Gilman Historic Ranch and Wagon Museum. While on the other hand, he wants to make the ranch more visitor friendly.
On the visitor-friendly side, much work has been going on. The carriage house, olive currying shed, and adobe milk house all have new cedar shingle roofs. A new sidewalk winds its way up to the house from the parking lot. And a new paved road leading to the ranch - with stagecoach-themed wrought iron gates - replaces the old gravel road.
"We are trying to make an awareness to the public that we have this wonderful park," said Bowden, who serves as the ranch park interpreter. "But at the same time we want to give it a feel that this is a ranch. We want to keep the historic perspective."
Allen's blast keeps Yucaipa perfect in league play
YUCAIPA - All season long the Lady T-Birds have relied on solid pitching, defense, and hitting. On Tuesday the pitching and defense stumbled.
But the hitting? Explosive. And it had to be.
Yucaipa trailed visiting Redlands East Valley, 4-1, going into the fifth inning - mostly due to four errors - but then the bats came alive and erupted for nine runs to put away the pesky Wildcats (6-7, 1-2) to give the Lady T-Birds a 12-7 victory in Citrus Belt League play.
Head Coach, David Kivett, added a fourth key component that has made the Lady T-Birds successful in starting their season with an overall 10-3 record, 3-0 in the CBL.
"They don't quit," Kivett said. "This team is unique. It doesn't matter what the score is, or where we are in the game, they always believe they are going to finish on top."
YUCAIPA - Work continued on the Yucaipa Blvd. Storm Drain project at the corner of Yucaipa Blvd. and California Street on Monday.
Chicken Springs Wash Storm Drain and Street Improvements / Yucaipa Boulevard Storm Drain projects include the construction of curb and gutter, sidewalk, asphalt concrete pavement, and storm drain improvements.
The projects also include earth channel grading, placement of grouted rip rap, concrete structures and catch basins, removal of existing storm drain culverts, construction of concrete flood walls/retaining walls, and reconstruction of existing surfaces between Adams Street and Third Street along Yucaipa Boulevard and at the Third and Fourth Street culvert crossings.
The project is underway and is scheduled to be completed April 2009.
Nearly 40,000 people were involved in creating THINK Together's 'Miles of Change.'
News Release:
FONTANA, CA - Close to 2,000 students and 200 chaperones worked nearly six and a half hours to lay down a 65 mile chain of pennies on the racetrack at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, CA, setting a new Guinness World Record™ for the longest chain of pennies. Youth in Fort Scott, Kansas laid down a 40-mile chain of pennies in July 2008.
The Southern California students, representing schools across a four-county region, all attend THINK Together after-school programs.
In early February more than 35,000 students in THINK Together's after-school programs throughout Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino County launched a penny drive, "Miles of Change," to commemorate the Bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth; and in recognition of the Lincoln Penny's Centennial, the students set out to collect at least 8.5 million pennies; or 100 miles of pennies.
The students out did themselves because in all, they ended up collecting more than 15.8 million pennies or $158,722.63 worth of change. That is nearly 188 miles of pennies.
BEAUMONT - The big, beautiful building on the corner of Oak Valley Parkway and Cherry Avenue is in the final stages of construction. When it's finished it will stand out as one of Beaumont's community jewels.
The Albert A. Chatigny, Sr. Community Recreation Center has over 24,000 square feet spread out over two floors. The first floor will house a 4,500 square foot childcare facility, and a huge multi-purpose gymnasium that can be used for sports - such as basketball - and also serve as a venue for performing arts. Meeting rooms take up most of the space on the second floor.
A theater stage rises above the gym floor midway between the floor's baselines. The stage can be used for indoor and outdoor live productions as the rear of the stage opens to a courtyard - thus serving as an outdoor amphitheater.
Construction on the $7.4 million building should be completed in time so that services can be offered about mid-May, said Darci Carranza, Beaumont special projects manager, adding that a grand opening is scheduled for June 13.
In every phase of construction, energy conservation has been emphasized, said Albert Chatigny, Jr., Project Supervisor for Bogh Construction, the general contractor for the project.
"We've got wind and solar energy and we've used a tremendous amount of recycled material," said Chatigny. Other energy saving measures include energy-efficient lighting and drought-tolerant plants.
News Release:
By Gin McMillin, Event Coordinator
The Banning
Cultural Alliance
www.banningculturalalliance.org
Charlie Chaplin Impersonator & California's #1 Mime are set to entertain.
BANNING, CA - The art of pantomime is just one of the many ways in which creative expression will be explored during the 4th Annual Art Hop taking place on Saturday, April 25th from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Free entertainment provided by Mark Wenzel, California's # 1 Mime, and Audrey Ruttan as the famous Charlie Chaplin of Hollywood, will delight visitors throughout the day.
Rod Tankerson's Band of Peace, Neil Smith, Stone Betty, Sun Lakes Performers, and other local performers are also scheduled to appear.
This outdoor festival is going to be a fun-filled, educational celebration of art and culture. The downtown streets of Banning will be closed to traffic so spectators may stroll through the venue.
The event will feature a special Milford Zornes exhibit, local galleries, an Ethnic Art Exhibit, several booths filled with artists, vendors, community based organizations, and food.
Yucaipa Valley Christian School District forming a broad base of support for Christian education in the Yucaipa Valley
YUCAIPA - An official congregational vote of First Baptist Church of Yucaipa approved the transfer of Yucaipa Christian School to the new Yucaipa Valley Christian School District (YVCSD).
After nearly a year since the idea for YVCSD was conceived, the school will open in August under the auspices of the Yucaipa Valley Christian School District. The newly formed district will lease the facilities of Yucaipa Christian School, which has been a ministry of First Baptist Church for more than 30 years.
The school will operate under the new district board, with the same principal, teachers and students.
Mesa Grande's, Tra Riddle, slides into home safely ahead of the tag of Twin Pines, Clark.
By Bob Otto / Staff Photographer
CALIMESA - The record will show Tra Riddle saddled with the loss, but he deserved much better in the Mesa Grande Cardinals, 7-5, loss to the Twin Pines Bobcats in the first game of a doubleheader Friday at Mesa Grande.
Riddle allowed but five hits and struck out 12, but 4 errors and 6 walks were too much for the Cardinals to overcome.
Mesa Grande held a 3-2 lead going into the top of the fifth inning, but Twin Pines sent 10 men to the plate and scored four runs to take the lead. From there the Bobcats held on for the victory. Clark held the Cardinals to 5 hits in picking up the win for Twin Pines.
The loss gives the Cardinals a 4-4 overall record, 0-1 in the Victory League.
MESA GRANDE: Tyler Oliverio, Tra Riddle, and Pablo Ruano each had doubles to lead the hitting attack. And Jesse Hammond and Trevor Beeks each singled.
TWIN PINES: Clark and Lloyd each had doubles. Hurtado, Anguiano, and Luis each singled.
Mesa Grande Cardinal, Trevor Beeks, delivers a pitch in the second game of the doubleheader with Twin Pines on Friday at Mesa Grande.
By Bob Otto / Staff Photographer
CALIMESA - The Mesa Grande Cardinals hosted the Twin Pines Bobcats in a doubleheader on Friday. See the teams in action.Click Here To See Photos
News Release:
By Lori Valdepena
Community Services Assistant
Yucaipa Senior Center
909-797-1177
909-797-7597 fax
AARP Tax Counseling
AARP volunteers will be at the Yucaipa Senior Center to offer free tax preparation and assistance for adults with low to moderate income every Tuesday starting in February until April 15.
No appointments are needed; it will be on a first come first served basis, starting at 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. If you received a tax stimulus payment last year, you need to state how much it was. Stimulus payments are not taxable, but must be declared on your 2008 tax return. If you received a notice from the IRS, bring it with you.
Sign Up Today and Share Your Talent!
Talent Show is planned at the Yucaipa Senior Center. Do you sing, tell jokes, love to dance, or act? All are welcome to sign up at the senior center office. The Talent show is scheduled for June 11, at 2:00 pm.
Margo Martin
(909) 797-1177
Yucaipa Senior Center Events
12202 First St.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
NEWS RELEASE:
By Devon Riley, OGAGA President
c/o Rileys at Los rios Rancho
(909) 797-1005
dvnriley@aol.com
OAK GLEN - On April 18th and 19th, visitors to Oak Glen can celebrate spring and take part in a decades-old tradition at the annual Apple Blossom Festival. Throughout the weekend, the member businesses of the Oak Glen Apple Growers Association (OGAGA) will be hosting a variety of special events, full of family-friendly fun for all ages.
The Festival kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday the 18th (for early birds, theres a Gospel Night musical sing-along at Los Rios Rancho on Friday the 17th at 7 p.m.).
Oak Tree Village will have crafters and artisans, a petting zoo, pony and train rides, exotic animal & reptile shows, and Old West shootouts featuring the Oak Glen Gunslingers. Theyll also host pie eating contests for adults and kids both days.
By Joshua Fox
Branch Manager
Calimesa Library
NEW HOT OFF THE PRESS
"Cloris" By Cloris Leachman
"Lost Quilter: An Elm Creek Quilts Novel" By Jennifer Chiaverini
"Malice" By Lisa Jackson
PRETEEN STORY TIME ... Wednesdays @ 4:30PM - 5:30PM
Every Wednesday Miss Mary will read several books on specific subjects. The
next Preeteen Program will be on Wednesday April 8, and the subject will be centered around Lambs.
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME & CRAFT....Thursdays @ 10:30AM - 11:30AM
Every Thursday Miss Mary will read several books and offer crafts on specific subjects for children under the age of 5. The Next Preschool Storytime and Craft April 9 we will be reading about lambs. Please Join us for story, crafts, and an excellent time!!!
Check out the many events offered by Wildwood Canyon Villa and mark your calendar to attend
By Pam Clarke
Marketing Director/Administrative Supervisor
Wildwood Canyon Villa
YUCAIPA - Wildwood Canyon Villa offers many events and informative classes in which the community is welcome to attend. Where an event is listed as "Open To The Public," Wildwood Canyon Villa encourages the community to attend.
April 7, at 10 a.m. Educational Presentation by "Care Alternatives" with guest speakers, Sharon Guggisberg & Bonnie Little discussing End of Life Care.
Open to the public. No fee.
April 10 at 2 p.m. Easter Celebration of fellowship, praise and song. Open to the public.
No charge.
April 17 at 12:30 p.m. Visiting Nurses Association Hospice Volunteer Awards Banquet
April 24 at 2 p.m. "Magic Show". Open to the public. No charge.
April 25 at 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. CPR Training. Open to the public. $40.00 class fee includes CPR certificate. Class conducted by qualified firefighter.
April 28 at 10 a.m. Educational presentation by Monica Crow of Inter-Valley Health Plan. Topic is "Maintain a Healthy Brain". No charge. Open to public.
April 30 at 7 p.m. Alzheimer's Support Group. Guest Speaker, Sharon Guggisberg from "Care Alternatives" discussing Alternative Care at Latter Stages of Life. Open to public. No fee.
The community is welcome to all events Open to The Public, and refreshments are always served.
For more information about Wildwood Canyon Villa contact:
Pam Clarke
Marketing Director/Administrative Supervisor
Wildwood Canyon Villa
33951 Colorado St.
Yucaipa, CA 92399
(909) 446-0405
(909) 446-0485 fax
(909) 754-1067 cell
pclarke@ccliving.com
By Steve Moore
Steve Moore Communications
CABAZON - With a kind word, a deft touch and his own carefully choreographed body language, the Horse Whisperer of Cabazon gently coaxes wild mustangs plucked from the open range.
The spirited horses once seen galloping across the West are saddled up and soon bond with their new riders.
During the last decade, Robert Lynk has trained and adopted out about 50 horses from his spread in Cabazon.
And while he understands the public's fascination with Robert Redford's 1998 silver screen portrayal of The Horse Whisperer, Lynk only smiles at the mention of his nickname.
"I'm just a person who has horses, loves horses and wants to enjoy them," he says. "It's elevating me beyond what I feel I am."
USA Stadium, Millington, Tenn. Former USA Olympic Baseball Training Site, 1986-1996.
News Release:
MEMPHIS - The Yucaipa High Thunderbirds defeated Glenbard South from Chicago, Illinois, 7-4, in the USA National Classic in Memphis, TN on Wednesday. The victory keeps Yucaipa perfect on the season with an 8-0 record.
Yucaipa jumped out to a 5-1 lead in the first inning that was aided by a throwing error by the pitcher on Chad Erickson's bunt. Taijuan Walker had a key two-out RBI hit; Grady Espinosa had a RBI single, and Todd Seymour added a two-out RBI single. Matt Marnati was 2-for-2 with two stolen basea and three runs scored.
Pedro Cota walked only one in pitching six innings for his third win (3-0) of the year, and Matt Davidson retired all three batters he faced to earn his second save.
Davidson also had a double and was twice hit by pitches. Yucaipa now plays Trinity from Louisville, Kentucky in the quarter finals at 3 p.m. on Thursday, but severe thunderstorms are expected today and may cause the game to be delayed.
Just before the funeral services, the undertaker came up to the very elderly widow and asked, " How old was your husband?"
"98," she replied, "Two years older than me."
"So you're 96," the undertaker commented.
"Hardly worth going home, is it?" she responded.
I've sure gotten old!
I've had two bypass surgeries, a hip replacement, new knees, fought prostate cancer and diabetes.
I'm half blind, can't hear anything quieter than a jet engine;
I take 40 different medications that make me dizzy, winded, and subject to blackouts.
I have bouts with dementia. Have poor circulation and I hardly feel my hands and feet anymore. I can't remember if I'm 85 or 92.
And I've lost all my friends.
But, thank God, I still have my driver's license!
By Anne Dorsey
Publicity Director
YUCAIPA - The Yucaipa Valley Art Association will meet at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 16 at Scherer Community Center, 12202 1st St. Yucaipa.
David Galvez, an art student at Riverside Community College, will demonstrate "low brow" portraits in acrylic. His presentation promises to be interesting.
Everyone is encouraged to come, enjoy the refreshments, vote for the monthly show winners and participate in a raffle.
For more information about the art association, please call Bob Norris at (909)790-7109.
YUCAIPA - With Spring recess underway, parents are invited to bring their children to "Kid's Club" at the Yucaipa Community Center located at 34900 Oak Glen Road.
Kid's Club offers arts and crafts, indoor and outdoor sports, games, and field trips.
To learn more about registration, cost, and hours, call (909) 790-7460 ext. 27.
YUCAIPA - Parents, it's time to buy those Easter baskets and outfit your youngsters with their fastest running shoes. For on Saturday, April 11, youngsters, from ages 10 and under are invited to the annual Community Egg Hunt at Yucaipa Community Park.
Youngsters will line up behind a ribboned barrier and when the signal is given, the race begins as youngsters rush across the green, grassy park to fill their Easter baskets with as many eggs as possible.
Don't miss out on the fun, and of course the Easter Bunny will be hopping about for photo ops.
Here's the details:
What: Community Egg Hunt sponsored by the Community Services Dept.
When: Saturday, April 11, starting at 10 a.m.
Where: Yucaipa Community Park, 34900 Oak Glen Road.
Ages: Children will be grouped in ages, 0-1, 2-3, 4-5, 6-7, and 8-10.
Cost: It's Free!
Special Bonus: "Special Eggs" filled with fun prizes
Why kids should attend: It'll be a hop-hop-hoppin' and eggstravaganza good time!
For more information, call (909) 790-7460
Regular maintenance and inspections keep older cars running longer and safely
YUCAIPA -New car, truck, and SUV sales have dropped sharply because of the downturn in the economy - some manufacturers nearing the 50 percent mark. Which means that people are hanging on to their older vehicles much longer.
But older vehicles have to be treated with care - namely to keep them in good running condition and safe on the road.
That means regular maintenance such as tune-ups and inspections. But how often? And what basic maintenance needs to be done to keep a vehicle in peak operating condition?
At Exclusive Auto in Yucaipa, owner Mike Proud says that a common problem with owners of older vehicles, is that they put off regular maintenance and minor repairs. But that is only going to hurt them in the long run, he said.
For example, little things like keeping fluid levels up can cost hundreds, even thousands of dollars in repairs if neglected.
"If the power steering reservoir goes empty it can burn up the pump and that can end up costing as much as $500," Proud said.
And ignoring the transmission? It can potentially drain your bank account.
By Bob Otto / Staff Photographer
CALIMESA - Construction was brisk at the $30 million, 9.4 acre, 90,319-square-foot neighborhood center called, "The Shoppes at Calimesa" on Wednesday in nearly every phase of construction including off-sight street improvements along Calimesa Blvd.
Owner Jaime Bahr of Inland Valley Pipeline of Temecula and his crew were busy working on the installation of a 16-inch water main extension that runs through the property.
"The project is going smooth and on schedule," Bahr said. "All the improvements will be done by May 1st.
The project runs along the south side of Calimesa Boulevard, and is located near Sandalwood and Myrtlewood drives, and will be built in two phases.
The first phase, which consists of 50,000 square feet, will feature Fresh & Easy, Walgreens, Carl's Jr., Subway and Denny's plus nearly 16,000 square feet of shop space.
There is also a drive-thru pad opportunity at the entrance of the center that is available. Phase one is slated to open in May 2009. The opening of Walgreens at The Shoppes at Calimesa will be the first major drug store to open in the city.
Tom Jensen found this Robin Williams' rendition of the American Flag on YouTube.
Enjoy.Click Here To Watch The Video
The San Gorgonio non-profit organization will serve chicken enchilada casserole, which was the late Carol Ragan's favorite dish, to honor Carol's birthday and Carol's Kitchen 11th anniversary.
BEAUMONT, CA - At the Beaumont Presbyterian Church Euclid Ave.--on the corner of Seventh & Euclid Beaumont, CA 92223--from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Carol's Kitchen volunteers will serve chicken enchilada casserole to the hungry in order to honor the late Carol Ragan's birthday and celebrate the organization's 11th anniversary.
While the actual date of both occasions is on April 21, the organization will host its commemoration the following day on April 22, 2009.
"Chicken enchilada casserole was Carol's favorite dish," says President and Executive Director Jim McConnell, "only her mother Arlene could make it the way she liked it."
CALIMESA - Randall Roddy's anger showed what he thought of the federal cigarette tax hike that went into effect today. And Roddy's not alone among smokers - and some non-smokers - who believe the federal tax on tobacco targets smokers unfairly. A tax that has skyrocketed from 39 cents to $1.01 per pack of cigarettes.
"This is a bunch of B.S., nonsense," said Roddy, who has smoked for 30 years. "There's right and there's wrong. Just because the government can't balance their budget, we (smokers) shouldn't have to pay for their incompetence."
Congress passed the "Children's Health Insurance Program," in January, and President Obama subsequently put his stamp of approval on it.
The tax on cigarettes is targeted to fund the program to help pay for health care for children of poor families, who can't afford private health care. It is estimated that several million children will gain access to health care through the new law.
The law has ignited strong feelings for and against.
Ike Farrough of County Cork Wine and Spirits said that the tax is bad for smokers, but if it helps poor children, then he's for it.
"I like that it's good for children," Farrough said. "If the smokers don't like it then they should quit."
REDLANDS - "Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today...," is a sad country tune made popular in 1968 by the late country singer, Tammy Wynette.
And sadly, says Kathy Snook, divorce is all too common today. Even among the congregation at Snook's church, Redlands Church of Christ.
With a little fact checking, Snook found the current rate of divorce in the U.S. at about 53 percent, she said. As tragic as that figure is, what makes divorce even worse is the ensuing grief that for some can make living almost worse than death.
Unless they seek support to deal with the pain.
"There is a terrible need for support groups," Snook said. "I know. I'm divorced and several others in our church are divorced. We know there is a need."
YUCAIPA - One down, one to go. The Yucaipa Lady T-Birds softball team have a busy week in Citrus Belt League play.
On Tuesday the girls knocked off Carter of Rialto, 4-0, on the tandem pitching of Jessica English and Tracy Hampton who combined to hold Carter to two hits.
Meanwhile, Aly Reykdal went 2-for-4 and Payton Wood went 2-for-3 with two doubles as the Lady T-Birds improved to 8-3 overall, 1-0 CBL, while Rialto's record stands at 2-3, 0-1.
On Thursday the Lady T-Birds travel to Rialto for a 3:15 p.m. game.
Senior Megan Allen leads the team with a .452 batting average and 12 RBI.
News Release:
San Bernardino County
Democratic Central Committee
INLAND EMPIRE - On the weekend of March 21st, Organizing for America hosted a pledge drive, including neighborhood canvass events, and a policy workshop to study President Obama's budget proposal.
We examined how President Obama's budget can lead to a transformation of the Inland Empire.
The budget presented to congress focuses on three key areas: health care, energy and education. The priorities laid out in his budget are exactly the medicine the doctor ordered for the ailing Inland Empire economy.
News Release
By Barbara Myers
Habitat for Humanity
San Gorgonio Pass Area
BANNING - Habitat for Humanity San Gorgonio Pass Area is participating in "Tickets Fore Charity" fundraising event for the Inaugural Soboba Classic Nationwide Golf Tournament.
The tournament will be held from September 28 through October 4, 2009 at The Country Club at Soboba Springs. This event will have future stars of tomorrow playing for their chance to advance to the PGA Tour in the race for the 25.
Help build homes for deserving families
Habitat for Humanity San Gorgonio Pass is selling tickets for the tournament and will keep 100% of ticket sales money. Daily planned activities are included in the week-long $25.00 admission pass.
Please visit www.sobobaclassic.net and click on Habitat for Humanity San Gorgonio Pass Area to support our organization in this important fundraiser. This donation will be used for the construction of two Habitat for Humanity houses in Banning.
Don't wait, complete your order now, support HFHSGPA, and plan for a fun-filled week this fall at a beautiful golf course seeing the golfing stars of tomorrow in action.
For more information, please contact:
Barbara Myers
Habitat for Humanity
San Gorgonio Pass Area
951-922-3944
The Country Club at Soboba Springs
1020 Soboba Road
San Jacinto, CA 92583
Phone: (951) 654-4300
www.sobobaspringscc.com
Press Release:
By Pat Murkland,
Dorothy Ramon Learning Center
BANNING - In what became the West's last famous manhunt, a man named Willie Boy shot and killed another man 100 years ago at Gilman Ranch in Banning. Willie Boy then ran off with the dead man's young daughter.
A posse chased him for more than a dozen days over 600 miles of desert, finally reporting that Willie Boy killed the girl and then killed himself.
People have been arguing about what really happened ever since.
As the saga of Willie Boy reaches its 100th anniversary this October, the controversy doesn't appear to be letting up. Clifford E. Trafzer, a UC Riverside history professor, supports what many Indian people believe: He says Willie Boy escaped and lived for many years after.
Kids enjoy entertainment, books; parents enjoy free activity
Story and photos by Mike Sturman
Beaumont Unified School District
msturman@beaumontusd.k12.ca.us
(951) 845-7441
www.beaumontusd.k12.ca.us
BEAUMONT, CA - It was a beautiful Saturday. A slight breeze was blowing, and the sun was shining. It was a day to play. So what were hundreds of kids doing at Mountain View Middle School?
They, their parents and other relatives, were there for the Beaumont Unified School District's Tenth Annual Celebration of Reading and the Arts, which sounds very educational but was really a blast.
Ryan Govea, 9, a fourth-grader at Anna Hause Elementary School, summed it all up in one word: "Awesome."
"I like it," he said as he was getting his face painted. "I like all the cool stuff. The games and the books."
Press Release:
By Diane Gonzalez
Beaumont-Cherry Valley Recreation and Park District
(951) 845-9555
BEAUMONT - Learn to hit, throw, pitch, and field like the major leaguers at the Dodger Baseball Clinic at Beaumont Noble Creek Community Park. Former Dodgers, Kenny Landreaux and Darrel Thomas will teach youngsters the finer points of the game.
When: The camp runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., April 1st and 2nd (Wednesday and Thursday.)
Who should attend: Ages 8 -16.
Cost: $50 for both days. Make checks payable to BCVRPD
The cost includes: Lunch, water, and a signed Dodger photo and Dodger hat.
What to bring: Youngsters should bring their baseball cleats, pants, helmet, glove, hat, bat, and Dodger T-shirt if you have one.
Autograph Session: There will be a one-hour autograph session from 3 to 4 p.m.
Where: Noble Creek Community Park
650 W. Oak Valley Parkway
Beaumont, CA. 92223
(951) 845-9555
(Do to construction, use Elm Street to access the park.)
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