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    Schools and Libraries To Receive Bicentennial Gift

    San Bernardino celebrates its Bicentennial throughout 2010. San Bernardino Bicentennial 1810-2010, a 200-page “coffee-table” book, commemorates the events and stories of the Bicentennial, including the monument dedication on San Bernardino’s 200th birthday, May 20, 2010. The Bicentennial Committee and area congressmen will present this book to schools and libraries on Monday, Aug. 30. Photo by Chris Sloan

    (SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) – The City of San Bernardino Bicentennial Committee will present every school and library in the city a copy of San Bernardino Bicentennial 1810-2010.

    The Bicentennial Committee will present copies of the book representatives of San Bernardino schools and libraries during a special ceremony Monday, Aug. 30 at 4 p.m. San Bernardino City Hall, 300 North D Street.

    “This is a coffee-table style book with lots of text and pictures,” said Bicentennial Committee Chairman Rabbi Hillel Cohn. “It is one of the lasting memories of the Bicentennial Celebration we have held this year, and we want to make it available to all our schools and libraries so they can share these memories with the public for years to come.”

    Congressmen Joe Baca and Jerry Lewis, who represent San Bernardino, will make the presentation. They both contributed the funds required for the initial research and writing.

    The 200-page “coffee-table” book was written by John Weeks and published by The Sun newspaper.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Erin Brinker (chair of the Public Relations & Marketing and July 4th Extravaganza committees), Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of San Bernardino’s Got Talent,  Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Nick Colera (chair of the Plant 200 Trees committee, and Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Rev. Petra Malleis-Sterberg(Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco and Dameron Communications (Media) and The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire (Design).

    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org

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    San Bernardino Celebrates Bicentennial Extravaganza

    A drummer with the band Delayne, James & Friends beats out a tune at the Bicentennial Extravaganza, held July 4, 2010 to celebrate San Bernardino’s 200th year. Photo by Matt Sloan

    Priscilla Becerra, a winner of the San Bernardino’s Got Talent show in June, entertained again at the Bicentennial Extravaganza with belly dancing. Photo by Chris Sloan
    The Inland Empire 66ers Dance Team, which normally entertains at the minor league baseball team’s home games, performed patriotic dance numbers for the Bicentennial Extravaganza. Photo by Chris Sloan
    Joe Banuelos, a winner of the San Bernardino’s Got Talent show in June, entertained at the Bicentennial Extravaganza with an impersonation of Elvis Presley. Photo by Matt Sloan
    Sinfonia Mariachi Youth  Academy entertained with trumpets and dance at the Bicentennial Extravaganza. Photo by Matt Sloan

    Mayor Patrick Morris in a duet with San Bernardino’s Got Talent Winner Joe Banuelos. Photo by Chris Sloan

    Naomi Slotkin, a winner of the San Bernardino’s Got Talent show in June, entertained vocally at the Bicentennial Extravaganza. Photo by Matt Sloan


    Hindsight 20/20 is a band with local connections and success on the national scene. It returned to San Bernardino for a Bicentennial Extravaganza performance. Photos by Chris Sloan
    San Bernardino ignited a fireworks display the likes of which had never before been seen in the city as the culmination of the Bicentennial Extravaganza celebrating its 200th year. Photo by Matt Sloan
     

    (SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) – The City of San Bernardino and local businesses hosted the Bicentennial July 4th Extravaganza held at the Arrowhead Credit Union Park. The event was open to the public and featured live music, dance performances, food from local restaurants and a fireworks show.

    The entertainment included Sinfonia Mexicana Mariacha Youth Academy, Delayne, James and Friends (R&B Grammy artists), the San Bernardino’s Got Talent award winners (Nadia Bell-Stowers, Joe Banuelos, Kelly Muller, Naomi Slotkin and Priscilla Becerra), Hindsight 20/20, 66ers Dance Team and Austin Law.
    The gates opened at 5 p.m. and guests were able to view a bicentennial slide show of pictures while they awaited the first act, and throughout the night.

    Kids were able to enjoy jumpers, slides, a tee-ball carnival game and face painting all provided free of charge.

    The Extravaganza was one of many events sponsored by the Bicentennial Committee to help to celebrate San Bernardino’s 200th birthday.

    “We were excited to welcome everyone to the Extravaganza and provide a day of fun for the whole family,” said Erin Brinker.

    Local sponsors included San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Stater Bros., the Matich Corporation and Vanir Development Company.

    Upcoming Bicentennial events include the Stater Bros. Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and the Think Together Bicentennial celebration.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee) and Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Trudy Freidel (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire (Design).

    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org

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    Bicentennial Celebrates Fourth With Extravaganza

     

    Austin Law, a national country band with local roots, performs at the Bicentennial Fourth of July Extravaganza.

    Hindsight, a rock and roll band, performs at the Bicentennial July 4 Extravaganza.
    Delayne, James & Friends, Grammy winning R&B group, performs at the Bicentennial July 4 Extravaganza.

    (SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) A Bicentennial 4th of July Extravaganza has been planned at Arrowhead Credit Union Park on Sunday evening in San Bernardino featuring live music, food from local restaurants and a fireworks show.

    The Extravaganza begins at 5 p.m. and tickets are $5 at the Arrowhead Credit Union Park box office. Parking is $5 per vehicle.

    The schedule of events is:

    5:00 Gates Open//Westside Steppers
    5:30 Sinfonia Mexicana Mariachi Youth Academy
    6:00 Delayne, James & Friends (R&B Grammy artists)
    6:45 Greetings by Mayor Morris & musical winners of San Bernardino’s Got Talent: Nadia Bell-Stowers, Joe Banuelos, Kelly Muller, Naomi Slotkin and Priscilla Becerra
    7:15 Hindsight 20/20 rock & roll by an Inland Empire legend
    8:00 66ers Dance Team
    8:30 Austin Law: national country band with local roots
    9:15 Fireworks display

    The Extravaganza is one of many events celebrating the City’s Bicentennial and is being sponsored by the Bicentennial Committee, according to Erin Brinker, Public Relations Chair.

    “We are excited to welcome everyone to this special Extravaganza. It is going to be a wonderful way for families to enjoy the evening and celebrate the 4th of July. Everyone should come early and plan to have a great time.”

    Brinker said that live music will be featured on two stages and food will be provided by local vendors and restaurants. Air bouncers and face painting for kids will be available.
    Local sponsors include San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Stater Bros., the Matich Corporation andVanir Development Company.

    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) and John Valdivia. The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Rev. Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire (Design).

    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org

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    San Bernardino’s Got Talent Features Local Youth

     

    San Bernardino has many talented young residents. Catch some of the best at San Bernardino’s Got Talent, taking place Saturday, June 19 at the Sturges Center for the Fine Arts. Photo by Chris Sloan.

    (SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.)—San Bernardino’s Got Talent Variety Show, featuring some of the city’s most entertaining young people, takes place 6 p.m. Saturday, June 19 at the Sturges Center for the Fine Arts, 780 North E Street.

    “The motto of the Bicentennial Celebration is ‘San Bernardino: A Rich History. A Bright Future’,” said Cheryl Brown, chair of the program. “San Bernardino’s Got Talent focuses on the future, and the wealth of entertaining talent that these people, ages 5-25 will bring to that future.
    Working diligently on this project is Charmaine Murphy, who is also excited about the talent we’ve uncovered.”
     
    Ticket prices are $7 if purchased online at www.sb200.org or $10 at the door.
     
    The Bicentennial Celebration Committee will award monetary prizes in this talent show. Age category 18 – 25 years will be awarded three prizes: First place wins $1,000, second place wins $500 and third place wins $300. The Bicentennial Celebration Committee will award one first place prize of $300 for ages 14 – 17 and one first place prize of $200 for ages 5 – 13 years,

    The young participants, listed below, were chosen by audition.
     
    Age 5 – 13 Category Finalists:
    1. Chy-anne Alsobrooks – Singer
    2. Reagan Brinker – Singer
    3. Jhomaani Chess – Singer/Dancer
    4. Keyern Jackson – Hip-Hop Dancer
    5. Allison McHaney – Tap Dancer
    6. Kelly Muller – Singer
    7. Briana Pleasant and Kaylee Powell – Singers
    8. San Bernardino Teen Music Workshop – Band Members of this band are:
    · Dontiere Burroughs
    · Sydnee Castillo
    · Ronald Draper II
    · Angelica Garcia
    · Daniel Garcia
    · Maria Llamas
    · Joey Love
    · Richard O’Howell
    · Stephanie Orozco
    · Marshall Trampus
    · Makylie Winlo
    9. The Young Soldiers – Singers/Dancers. Members of this all-male song and dance troupe are:
    · Bernardo Colegio-Rodriguez
    · Armando Hernandez
    · Vincent Hernandez
    · Isaac Rodriguez
     
    Age 14 – 17 Category
    1. Joe Banuelos – Singer/Dancer
    2. Jacqueline Chevrier – Singer
    3. Samantha Garcia – Singer
    4. Angelika Lopez – Ballet Dancer
    5. Lyric Mena – Singer
    6. Genice Tanner – Singer/Guitar
     
    Age 18 – 25 Category
    1. Nadia Bell-Stowers – Opera Singer
    2. Heather Clodfelder – Singer
    3. Colton City Mission Youth Choir – Singing Band. Members are:
    · Alexis Allen
    · Alison Allen
    · Nikki Bradbury
    · Kenton Dyce
    · Latanya McIntosh
    · Tyrone McIntosh
    · Daniel Peart
    4. Tino Rivera – Hip-Hop Rapper
    5. Naomi Slotkin – Singer
    6. Caitlin Smothers – Singer
    7. Pierre Thomlinson – Poetry

    All 103 contestants that auditioned are invited to participate in the Finale’ number of San Bernardino’s Got Talent Variety Show and will be receiving an invitation letter.  This is one of many events honoring the 200th birthday of San Bernardino.  A Rich History.  A Bright Future.
     
    For more information, visit www.sanbernardino200.org and click on San Bernardino’s Got Talent.
     
    Other upcoming Bicentennial Celebration Events:
     
    The Bicentennial festivities continue on July 4th at the 66ers Stadium in the Arrowhead Credit Union Park, the 4th of July Extravaganza with a fireworks display unlike any the city has previously seen.

    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations and Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) and John Valdivia. The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Rev. Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media), The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire (Design) and Daemron Communications (Public Realtions).

    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org
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    San Bernardino Celebrates 200 Years

     

    Sheila Futch, field representative for Assembly Member Wilmer Amina Carter, presents a framed Assembly resolution congratulating San Bernardino on its bicentennial to Mayor Patrick Morris on May 20, 2010, while Bicentennial Committee Chairman Rabbi Hillel Cohn and Diocese of San Bernardino Catholic Bishop Gerald Barnes and Associate Bishop Rutilio del Riego watch. Photo by  Chris Sloan
     
    Bishop Gerald Barnes of the Diocese of San Bernardino blesses the newly unveiled San Bernardino Bicentennial monument on May 20, 2010. The monument is approximately where Father Francisco Dumetz first established a small chapel on May 20, 1810, and also approximately where residents of San Bernardino first placed a Centennial monument on May 20, 1910. Although the Centennial monument was moved several times in the 20th century, it now occupies a place adjacent to the Bicentennial monument. Photo by  Chris Sloan
     
    Students from three Catholic schools in San Bernardino placed flowers at the foot of the Bicentennial monument as part of its blessing ceremony on May 20, 2010. Photo by Chris Sloan

    After leading a chorus of “Happy Birthday, San Bernardino” for the second time on May 20, 2010, Mayor Patrick Morris, assisted by San Bernardino Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Wayne Austin, cuts a birthday cake for San Bernardino at the California Welcome Center. Photo by Chris Sloan
    NOTE: Additional photos from May 20, 2010, as well as photos of the Gala, Mayor’s Run,  Festival of Faiths, Bicentennial Parade and celebration at Meadowbrook Park are also available on request.

    (SAN BERNARDINO, Calif., May 26, 2010)—San Bernardino reached a historic milestone, celebrating its 200th “birthday” on May 20, 2010.

    During the eight days surrounding its birthday, San Bernardino residents celebrated in many different ways. They kicked off the week of fun with a gala on May 15 at the National Orange Events Center, followed by two more events, the Bicentennial Mayor’s Run and the Festival of Faiths on the 16th.

    They closed out the birthday week by holding a parade and community celebration on Saturday, May 22.
    While the actual birthday fell on Thursday, May 20, it too was a day for celebration. About 400 people gathered at Inland Center Drive and I Street to dedicate a monument that will likely be one of the most visible reminders of the city’s long heritage. There was also a rededication of a similar monument as a reminder for 100 years.

    The Diocese of San Bernardino formalized the dedication with its “Rite of Rededication of Centennial Monument and Blessing and Dedication of Bicentennial Monument.” Bishop Gerald Barnes, leader of the diocese, presided over this portion of the ceremony, which was highlighted with a blessing with holy water on the Bicentennial monument before offering a prayer of dedication for all of San Bernardino.

    “This city has been blessed by God, and by those who have lived here,” Bishop Barnes said. “This monument is a symbol of that blessing. We commit to care for our city, to strengthen its faith, and to share its blessings with all the new people who will call this place home.”

    The May 20 ceremony also focused on the historic significance of the place and the day. Inland Center and I Street is approximately where Father Francisco Dumetz established a capilla (small chapel) on May 20, 1810 and named all the area around him “San Bernardino” in honor of St. Bernadine de Sienna, the patron saint of the day.

    “We are at the site where our beautiful valley received its name,” said Rabbi Hillel Cohn, chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration committee, as he welcomed guests to the dedication/rededication ceremony. “It was 200 years ago this very day.”

    Some years after Father Dumetz’s death in 1811, the Mission San Gabriel worked with local Native Americans to establish a cattle ranching and farming operation on the land where the capilla had been established. From this beginning, San Bernardino grew to the city it is today.

    Pauline Murillo, tribal elder for the San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians, recalled a story her grandmother used to tell, which gives a glimpse into how the Native Americans living in the San Bernardino foothills viewed the city emerging below them.

    “My grandmother told us that when she was a young girl she sat with her mother on a hill above San Bernardino,” Murillo said. “Her mother told her ‘you see that speck of light down there. One day that light will reach all the way to our mountain.’”

    “Today what my grandmother was told is true,” Murillo said. “We all have big hearts, and today we are doing a great thing. Our founder, Santos Manuel, is still here in his heart and he would be proud of where we are today.”

    The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is named for Santos Manuel, who was chief of the Yuhaviatam (Serrano) tribe residing above San Bernardino, and led survivors to safety after an attack in 1866 by the United States militia. The San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians has since 1891 operated a Native American reservation named after their courageous leader.

    San Bernardino’s rich history has not gone unnoticed by today’s leaders. Another part of the May 20 dedication/rededication ceremony focused on bicentennial commendations the city has received from elected officials.

    These include a listing in the United States Congressional Record by Senator Barbara Boxer and Congressman Joe Baca; framed California senate and assembly resolutions honoring San Bernardino, presented by the field representatives of Senator Gloria Negrete-McLeod and Assembly Member Wilmer Amina Carter, and a resolution by the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors presented by the field representatives of supervisors Josie Gonzales and Neil Derry.

    The City of Redlands has also adopted a resolution commending San Bernardino on its bicentennial, which Redlands Mayor Patricia Gilbreath gave to San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris during the May 15 gala.
    Diocese of San Bernardino archivist Peter Bradley gave the audience some history on St. Bernardine, and why the Mission San Gabriel sent Father Dumetz to San Bernardino 200 years ago in search of ranch land to expand its own operation. Mayor Morris told more of the city’s history, including that its actual incorporation as a city took place in 1854.

    Although Sam Bernardino’s milestone birthday has now passed, the celebration continues. Special Bicentennial events are still in the works, and annual events yet to come will take on a bicentennial flair.
    For more information, visit www.sb200.org .

    Other upcoming Bicentennial Celebration Events:

    Join the contestants at the San Bernardino’s Got Talent Show on June 19 at the Sturges Center of Performing Arts where the finalists will perform their acts. Winners will be announced at this event.

    The Bicentennial festivities continue on July 4th at the 66ers Stadium in the Arrowhead Credit Union Park, the 4th of July Music & Extravaganza with a fireworks display unlike any the city has previously seen.

    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) and John Valdivia. The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Rev. Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire (Design).

    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org

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    Mayor’s Run Celebrates Bicentennial

    Peggi Hazlett, far right, calls “Go” as children begin running a past Mayor’s Mile at Arrowhead Credit Union Park.


    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (May 5, 2010) –This year’s annual Mayor’s Run celebrates San Bernardino’s 200th birthday.
    The Mayor’s Run is in its eighth year, and has traditionally been held on the third Sunday in May.   Check in begins at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 16 at Arrowhead Credit Union Park, 280 S. E Street.


    That happens to be just four days before San Bernardino’s 200th birthday. The Bicentennial Celebration commemorates the naming of San Bernardino on May 20, 1810 by Father Francisco Dumetz.


    “This year, runners can celebrate the Bicentennial with the Mayor’s Run,” said Peggi Hazlett, assistant to Mayor Patrick Morris, and the organizer of this year’s run. “It’s a fun race that takes place annually in the beautiful Arrowhead Credit Union Park, and this year, it will be even better!”


    The Mayor’s Run includes 5K and 10K races, and a “Mayor’s Mile” fun run for children 14 and younger.  All start at the stadium, and finish at home plate.  The 5K and 10K races are sanctioned by the USTAF (USA Track & Field).


    Arrowhead Credit Union Park is home to the Inland Empire 66ers, San Bernardino’s minor league professional baseball team.


    The 5K race, which begins at 8:00 a.m. takes runners up E Street to Fifth Street, where they will then loop around several blocks of the downtown area, including San Bernardino City Hall, before returning to Arrowhead Credit Union stadium for a final lap to home plate. The 10k race, which begins at 8:30 a.m., makes the same loop twice before entering the stadium.


    First, second and third place winners in each age group will receive awards. Age groups range from 14 and under to 70 and over, with all others divided by 5-year increments.


    At 8:45 a.m., children begin running the “Mayor’s Mile” in several age divisions (5 and under, 6-7, 8-10, 11-14). Depending on the age division, this run consists of one, two or three laps inside the stadium.


    All children participating in the “Mayor’s Mile” receive a commemorative finisher’s award, regardless of place.
    Everyone participating receives a t-shirt at check-in, which begins at 7 a.m. This year’s t-shirt features the Bicentennial Celebration logo.
    “It’s fun for the whole family,” Hazlett said. “Plus it benefits local youth activities, and helps you stay fit and healthy.”
    Entry fees are $5 for the Mayor’s Mile and $20 for either the 5K or 10K. Teams of five can enter the 5K race for $90. After May 10, the entry fees for the 5K and 10K races are $25, or $100 for a five-member team.


    The Mayor’s Run also includes a youth health and safety expo.
    Participants may enter by going to http://sanbernardino200.org <http://sanbernardino200.org> to download race applications. One race application per participant, plus a check, should be mailed to City of San Bernardino Mayor’s Youth Council, 1350 S. E Street, San Bernardino, CA 92408.
    For more information about the runs, participants should contact Mitch Assumma at (909) 384-5233.


    Other upcoming Bicentennial Celebration Events:
    Music will highlight May 7 and 8 with an adaptation of Mozart’s opera “Cosi Fan Tutte” at the University’s P.A. Recital Hall.
    May 8 and 9, the celebration debuts Railroad Days at the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum at the historic Depot.  The historic Santa Fe 3751 steam locomotive will be brought to San Bernardino for this event which takes place 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. each day.
    May 15 current and former residents join together at an elegant gala at the National Orange Show Events Center.  Social hour begins at 6:00 p.m. with food and entertainment continuing throughout the evening.


    The Mayor’s Run is one of two Bicentennial Celebration events taking place on May 16. From 3 p.m to 5:45 p.m., the Festival of Faiths will be celebrated at the Little League Western Regional Stadium with various faith groups expressing their traditions and history in San Bernardino, and food booths to sample traditional foods of their community


    There will be a Centennial Monument rededication as well as a Bicentennial Monument dedication on May 20 at Inland Center Drive and “I” Street beginning at 10:00 a.m. with a reception immediately following at the California Welcome Center, 1955 Hunts Lane, San Bernardino.
    The fun continues at the Bicentennial Parade and Festival Celebration on May 22 beginning in Meadowbrook Park at noon. Throughout the day there will be food, merchandise vendors and a mini-carnival.  After the parade, floats will be on display.  The Parade begins at 4:00 p.m. at 7th and “E” Street and festivities will continue in Meadowbrook Park until 9:00 p.m.


    Join the contestants at the San Bernardino’s Got Talent Show on June 19 at the Sturges Center of Performing Arts at 6 p.m. when the finalists will perform their acts.  Winners will be announced at this event.
    The Bicentennial festivities on July 4th at the 66ers Stadium in the Arrowhead Credit Union Park will have live entertainment, food and a fireworks display unlike any the city has previously seen.
    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.


    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee) and John Valdivia.  The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.


    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: The Rev. Petra Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and Dameron Communications (Public Relations.)


    For more information, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org <http://sanbernardino200.org>

     

    Slide show of phots from the Mayor’s Bicentennial Run

     

    Media:  If you would like any of the photos in the slide show below please send an email to Chris@DameronCommunications.com with the photo id number and i will have it to you within 24 hours.  If you require the photo sooner please call Chris Sloan at (909) 888-0017.



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    Party Like It's 200!

     Local dignitaries, including San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris and San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Josie Gonzales, were on hand to celebrate San Bernardino’s 199th birthday last year. All current and former residents, their friends and families, are invited to celebrate the 200th birthday of San Bernardino at a gala on Saturday, May 15.

    Mayor Patrick Morris leads “Happy Birthday” at a celebration of San Bernardino’s 199th birthday last year. Celebrate the 200th birthday at a gala on Saturday, May 16.

    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (May 7, 2010) – Current and former residents of San Bernardino, and all of their friends and family, are invited to a gala celebration of the city’s Bicentennial on Saturday, May 15 at the National Orange Show Events Center.

    The event begins at 6:00 p.m. with a social hour, followed by dinner at 7:00 p.m. There will be live music including strings and Mariachis, dancing with music by the Cal State (San Bernardino) Jazz band, and entertainment.

    “Let’s make this a great reunion of people who love San Bernardino,” said Martha Pinckney, chair of the Bicentennial Celebration Gala. “Its purpose is to celebrate the bicentennial of our city. It’s a party that has been in the making for 200 years.”

    Tickets for the Bicentennial Celebration Gala are $100 per person. To order tickets, go to http://sanbernardino200.org or call 909.886.2528.

    Although the Bicentennial Celebration is taking place throughout 2010, the Bicentennial Celebration Gala kicks off eight days of concentrated events.

    Other events taking place in the week to follow are:
    • The Mayor’s Run May 16 at Arrowhead Credit Union Park. Registration begins at 7:00 a.m., the first race at 8:00 a.m. Call Mitch Assumma at (909) 384-5233 for an application or visit http://sanbernardino200.org.
    • The Festival of Faiths 3:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. May 16 at Little League Western Regional Stadium. Call the Rev. Petra Malleis-Steinberg at (909) 886-4911 if your church wishes to take part.
    • A Bicentennial Celebration monument dedication and Centennial Celebration monument rededication at Inland Center Drive and I Street, 10:00 a.m. May 20 with a reception immediately following at the California Welcome Center, 1955 Hunts Lane, San Bernardino.
    • A parade through downtown and a festival celebration before and after at Meadowbrook Park on May 22. The parade begins at 4:00 p.m., the festival celebration at 12 noon.

    Other upcoming Bicentennial Celebration Events:

    Music will highlight May 7 and 8 with an adaptation of Mozart’s opera “Cosi Fan Tutte” at the University’s P.A. Recital Hall.

    May 8 and 9, the celebration debuts Railroad Days at the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum at the historic Depot. The historic Santa Fe 3751 steam locomotive will be brought to San Bernardino for this event which takes place 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. each day.

    Join the contestants at the San Bernardino’s Got Talent Show on June 19 at the Sturges Center of Performing Arts at 7:00 p.m. when the finalists will perform their acts. Winners will be announced at this event.

    The Bicentennial festivities on July 4th at the 66ers Stadium in the Arrowhead Credit Union Park will have live entertainment, food and a fireworks display unlike any the city has previously seen.

    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee) and John Valdivia. The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: The Rev. Petra Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and Dameron Communications (Public Relations.)

    For more information, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org

    Bicentennial Beautification Winners Announced

    Ron and Shirley White won the Single Family Category for the improvements to their home. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration
    Luis Campos is the winner of the Multi-Family category in the Neighborhood Beautification contest, for improvements he made to this apartment complex. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration.
    Boy Scout Troop 434 and the DMV Neighborhood Association joined with St. John’s Episcopal Church to plant drought-tolerant plants, paint the sign and improve the courtyard and recreational facilities at the church. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration
    Inland Empire Job Corps volunteers pick up trash in Meadowbrook Park as part of a Neighborhood Beautification contest. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration
    More than 70 employees of Kohl’s Department Stores helped clean up Little League Field at Waterman and Sixth streets as part of the Neighborhood Beautification contest. They are the winners in the Business Category. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration
    Inland Empire Job Corps students helped clean up Secombe Lake Park on April 23 as part of the Neighborhood Beautification contest. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration
    Inland Empire Job Corps sent a large contingent of students and staff to help clean up Secombe Lake Park. during the Neighborhood Beautification contest. Job Corps also helped clean up Western Regional Little League Park and Meadowbrook Park, removed graffiti in several areas of the city, picked up trash on Cajon Boulevard and planted flowers at Muscoy United Methodist Church. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration
    Children celebrate after they helped in a neighborhood clean-up at Anne Shirell Park as part of the Neighborhood Beautification contest. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration.
    Participants in a cleanup effort at Ann Shirrel Park pose with Mayor Patrick Morris. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration

    The Rev. Bronica Martindale (front left) and neighborhood children show off the oranges they’ve grown in the Westside Community Garden, which was spruced up by several community groups who participated in the Neighborhood Beautification contest. Photo courtesy of Bicentennial Celebration


    (SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.)—The San Bernardino Bicentennial Celebration Committee has named several local organizations and residents as winners for their efforts in the recent Neighborhood Beautification Contest.

     

    In the Residence/Neighborhood Block category, Robert  and Shirley White were selected for landscaping completed at their Maywood Avenue home.

     

    In the Multi-Family Dwelling Category, Luis Campos was selected for improvements made to his property on W. 9th Street.
    Kohl’s Department Stores Distribution Center won in the Business category. More than 70 Kohl’s employees and family members worked at the Little League field at Waterman and 6th Street, fertilizing the field, planting trees, picking up trash, painting the stands and repairing snack bars. They also donated $1,500 to the Little League.


    The award for Community Organization projects went to three different groups: Inland Empire Job Corps Center, Boy Scout Troop 434/DMV Neighborhood Association/St. John’s Episcopal Church and a collaboration of organizations working at the Westside Community Garden at Anne Shirrel Park and Temple Learning Center.


    “These were true collaborative efforts involving many groups and community members,” Beautification Committee Co-Chair John Traubert explained. “We were so impressed at the number of volunteers involved and the scope of the projects that we wanted to recognize all three groups.”


    Hundreds of volunteers took part in the event, which saw residents and volunteers landscaping, weeding and cleaning up the city in preparation for the many Bicentennial events taking place in May and throughout 2010.


    Participants submitted “before” and “after” photos of projects they completed, and judges selected the winners in four different categories.


    Jean Bulinski and John Traubert chair the Beautification Committee and said they were pleased with the participation.
    “We were excited that so many people wanted to get involved and do something to help make our city a better place to live,” Bulinski said.


    “A number of the projects had been planned for some time, but as things got rolling we had people calling and asking what they could do to help,” said Traubert. “It was nice to be able to connect those volunteers with projects that needed assistance.”


    Inland Empire Job Corps Center sent students, teachers and staff members around the city to work on several projects. They cleaned up debris and cleared flower beds at Secombe Lake and Meadowbrook Park. They cleaned up areas of the Little League Western Regional Headquarters and had teams removing graffiti, picking up debris along Cajon Boulevard and planting trees and flowers at Muscoy Methodist Church.


    Boy Scout Troop 434 and the DMV Neighborhood Association joined with St. John’s Episcopal Church to plant drought-tolerant plants, paint the sign and improve the courtyard and recreational facilities at this site, which provides services to many in the community.

    Several groups took part in projects at the Westside Community Garden at Anne Shirrel Park and the Temple Learning Center on Baseline. Collaborating on these projects were the Mt. Vernon and Delmann Heights Neighborhood Associations, California Gardens Association, San Bernardino County Nutrition Program, San Bernardino Parks and Recreation Department, Operation Phoenix Foundation, NAACP, San Bernardino Green Alliance, Cub Scout Pack #48, Rio Vista Elementary School C.A.P.S. program, Mardi Gras Restaurant, Inland Orange Conservancy, Temple Learning Center and neighborhood residents.

    Winners will be recognized by the San Bernardino City Council for their achievements.
    In addition to the volunteers out working, local businesses encouraged participation by contributing prizes for a drawing open to all contest participants. Businesses providing prizes were NAPA Auto Parts, Waterman Car Wash, Burger Express, Bertrand’s Music Mart, Inland Center Mall, Inland Empire 66ers, Wicks ‘n’ Sticks, Earhart Photography, Fast-Fix Jewelry and Watch Repairs and First Certified Arbor Care.


    “It was very rewarding to be part of all this,” said Bulinski. “And we hope the momentum keeps going. There are plenty of opportunities for people to help make our community a better place to live.”
    In addition to the beautification contest, April featured a special beautification day coordinated by the Mayor’s office for residents to bring bulky refuse, including electronic waste and tires. Seven sites were set up and staffed by Neighborhood Cluster Associations and other volunteers.


    Upcoming Bicentennial Celebration Events:

    Music will be performed May 7 and 8 with an adaptation of Mozart’s opera “Cossi Fan Tutte” at the California State University San Bernardino’s P.A. Recital Hall.


    May 8 and 9, the celebration debuts Railroad Days at the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum at the historic Depot.  The historic Santa Fe # 3751 steam locomotive will be brought to San Bernardino for this event.

    May 15th
    current and former residents join together at an elegant gala at the National Orange Show Events Center, with the 16th capped by a Bicentennial Mayor’s Run and Youth Safety Expo at Arrowhead Credit Union Park and a Festival of Faiths at the Western Region Little League Stadium.


    The fun continues at the Bicentennial Parade and Celebration on May 22 beginning in Meadowbrook Park. Throughout the day there will be food, merchandise vendors and mini-carnival.  After the parade, floats will be on display.  The Parade begins at 4:00 p.m. at 7th and “E” Street.


    Join the contestants at the San Bernardino’s Got Talent Show on June 19 at the Sturges Center of Performing Arts where the finalists will perform their acts.  Winners will be announced at this event.

    The Bicentennial festivities continue on July 4th at the 66ers Stadium in the Arrowhead Credit Union Park, is a 4th of July Extravaganza with a fireworks display unlike any the city has previously seen.


    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.
    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) and John Valdivia. The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.
    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Rev. Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and Dameron Communications (Public Relations).


    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org <http://sanbernardino200.org>

    -end-

    Two Centuries of San Bernardino Memorialized

    Bishop Thomas J. Conaty, of what was then known as the Diocese of Monterey-Los Angeles, leads the Centennial Monument dedication on May 20, 1910. This monument will be rededicated on San Bernardino’s 200th birthday, May 20, 2010 and a similar Bicentennial Monument will be dedicated.

    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (May 4, 2010) On May 20, 2010, at 10 a.m. the Bicentennial celebration will recognize the place and the date where the name “San Bernardino” began 200 years ago by dedicating two monuments in a street side ceremony. It will re-dedicate the 1910 Centennial Monument and dedicate a similar 2010 Bicentennial Monument.

    Inland Center Drive and “I” Street is a busy intersection near a freeway, a regional shopping center and a college, all symbols of a successful city.

    History records that Francisco Dumetz, a Franciscan padre, established a capilla (small chapel) on May 20, 1810, not far from what is now the intersection of these two busy streets. On the same day, he named the entire valley before him “San Bernardino” to honor the patron saint of that day.

    The Bicentennial Committee and the Diocese of San Bernardino share in organizing this event, which also recognizes the 200th anniversary of Catholicism in San Bernardino Valley.

    A diversity of faiths are involved in the Bicentennial monument dedication. Rabbi Hillel Cohn will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration committee, which is organizing numerous celebratory events in 2010 to commemorate the city’s 200th birthday.

    Peter Bradley, archivist of the Dioces of San Bernardino will present a brief history of the site and the ceremonies that marked the centennial in 1910.,

    Elected officials will present resolutions and proclamations marking San Bernardino’s bicentennial to Mayor Patrick Morris Bishop Gerald Barnes, head of the diocese of San Bernardino will lead a liturgical celebration, which will include with hymns and Psalms. He will also offer a homily for the occasion and conduct the rededication of the 1910 monument and the dedication of the 2010 monument.

    Native Americans will bless the location with sacred music and dance.

    “This monument is where it is believed the first Catholic Mass was given in San Bernardino Valley by Father Dumetz,” said John Andrews, director of communications for the Diocese of San Bernardino. “It was on that very day he gave San Bernardino its name.”

    Catholics in San Bernardino organized a similar celebration on May 20, 1910.

    According to newspaper accounts, the Centennial celebration also included a dedication of the newly built chapel for the parish of St. Bernadine de Siena. This was followed by an “automobile parade” from St. Bernadine’s (still standing and still in use) chapel at Fifth and F Streets to the location where Father Dumetz built the capilla 100 years before.

    Leading both ceremonies was Bishop Thomas J. Conaty, head of what was then known as the Diocese of Monterey-Los Angeles, an entity serving all Catholic churches in California.

    “The Centennial monument will be returning to a spot near its original location,” said Steve Shaw, president of the San Bernardino Historical Society, which is working with the Diocese of San Bernardino to plan this event. “It was there from 1910 through the 1960s or 1970s, but then had to be moved as development of the area occurred.”

    From then until about 1990, the monument stood in front of the nearby St. Prophet Elias Greek Orthodox Church at 1035 Inland Center Drive. This church rescued the monument from demolition.

    “Then the Centennial monument was hit by a car, “ Shaw said. “The engraved granite block was not damaged, but the concrete block it rested on was. Since then, the granite block has been on display at the San Bernardino Historical Society Museum.”

    The Bicentennial monument is similar in design, Shaw said. Both weigh about 700 lbs. each, and both are 18” x 24” x 14”. Before the ceremony, they will be placed on a single concrete block near Inland Center Drive’s bicycle path, where, it is hoped, they will be safe for centuries to come. The base for the two monuments has been constructed by the Matich Corporation.

    After the monument dedication and re-dedication, the Bicentennial Celebration will hold a reception at the California Welcome Center, 1955 Hunts Lane, Suite 102.
    Other upcoming Bicentennial Celebration Events:

    Music will be performed May 7 and 8 with an adaptation of Mozart’s opera “Cossi Fan Tutte” at the California State University San Bernardino’s P.A. Recital Hall.

    May 8 and 9, the celebration debuts Railroad Days at the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum at the historic Depot. The historic Santa Fe # 3751 steam locomotive will be brought to San Bernardino for this event.

    May 15th current and former residents join together at an elegant gala at the National Orange Show Events Center, with the 16th capped by a Bicentennial Mayor’s Run and Youth Safety Expo at Arrowhead Credit Union Park and a Festival of Faiths at the Western Region Little League Stadium.

    The fun continues at the Bicentennial Parade and Celebration on May 22 beginning in Meadowbrook Park. Throughout the day there will be food, merchandise vendors and mini-carnival. After the parade, floats will be on display. The Parade begins at 4:00 p.m. at 7th and “E” Street.

    Join the contestants at the San Bernardino’s Got Talent Show on June 19 at the Sturgess Center of Performing Arts where the finalists will perform their acts. Winners will be announced at this event.

    The Bicentennial festivities continue on July 4th at the 66ers Stadium in the Arrowhead Credit Union Park, is a 4th of July Extravaganza with a fireworks display unlike any the city has previously seen.

    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) and John Valdivia. The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Rev. Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and Dameron Communications (Public Relations).

    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org

    -end-

    Diverse Faiths Celebrate With Festival

    Choir members from New Hope Missionary Baptist Church practice for a recent concert.  Join us to share the Festivals of Faiths with many choirs, dance teams and instrument players from throughout San Bernardino on Sunday, May 16 at the Western Region Little League Stadium at 3 p.m.

    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (April 16, 2010) – Since May 20, 1810, when Father Francisco Dumetz founded a Catholic mission in what was then almost entirely a Native American community, San Bernardino has had a diversity of faiths.

    Sunday, May 16, 2010 people of San Bernardino’s many faiths will come together in celebration of the city’s history and future, as part of the city’s year long Bicentennial Celebration. The Festival of Faiths, a free event, will be held at the Western Region Little League Stadium, 6707 Little League Dr. The program will take place from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will be followed by the “Sharing of Food and Friendship” from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 pm. There is ample parking at the stadium.

    “It is a celebration of the many different faiths in San Bernardino,” said the Rev. Petra Malleis-Sternberg, pastor of First Congregational United Church of Christ, and co-chair of the Bicentennial Celebration’s Festival of Faiths committee. “We also are recognizing the many ways these different congregations have served the city of San Bernardino over the last 200 years.”

    Every religious congregation identified by the Festival of Faiths committee has been invited to participate in this event. If any congregation has not been invited, a leader should call Rev. Malleis-Sternberg at (909) 886-4911.

    The event starts at 3 p.m. with each participating congregation participating in Opening Ceremonies. A pastor or other congregational leader, and at least one youth representative will parade into the Little League stadium, carrying a banner to identify their congregation.

    After the participating congregations are recognized, some of them will provide musical entertainment. This includes choirs, praise bands, dance teams and prayers and readings that are chanted or sung.
    On conclusion of the entertainment portion of the Festival of Faiths, all will adjourn to the area surrounding the stadium for the “Sharing of Food and Friendship.” Congregations will offer taste-sized portions of food from their unique cultures.

    “This is like one big coffee hour,” the Rev. Malleis-Sternberg said. “Our local synagogue plans to offer tastes of bagels, lox, and sweets. Other religious groups will share Middle Eastern barbecue, Latin American flavors, and regional treats from the United States.”

    Also, during this final hour, children will be encouraged to draw their vision for San Bernardino’s future on a mural. Paper and markers will be supplied.

    Local congregations that have buses or vans are being invited to provide transportation to and from the event from key locations in San Bernardino. These locations will be announced a week before the event.
    Other upcoming Bicentennial Celebration Events:

    On May 1, the San Bernardino Symphony will perform a “Celebrate America” concert at the California Theatre of Performing Arts in honor of the city’s birthday as well as the centennial of the Community Hospital of San Bernardino.
    More music will be performed May 7 and 8 with an adaptation of Mozart’s opera “Cossi Fan Tutte” at California State University San Bernardino’s P.A. Recital Hall.

    May 8 and 9, the celebration debuts Railroad Days at the San Bernardino History and Railroad Museum at the historic Depot. The historic Santa Fe # 3751 steam locomotive will be brought to San Bernardino for this event.

    May 15th current and former residents join together at an elegant gala at the National Orange Show Events Center, with the 16th capped by a Bicentennial Mayor’s Run and Youth Safety Expo at Arrowhead Credit Union Park.

    There will be a Centennial Monument rededication as well as a Bicentennial Monument dedication on May 20 at Inland Center Drive and “I” Street with a reception to follow at the California Welcome Center – San Bernardino.

    The Bicentennial Parade will start at 7th and E Street, ending at Meadowbrook Park, on May 22 focusing on San Bernardino from its beginnings as a Native American settlement centuries ago, to the present and future.

    The Bicentennial festivities continue on July 4th at the 66ers Stadium in the Arrowhead Credit Union Park, the 4th of July Extravaganza with a fireworks display unlike any the city has previously seen.

    The Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous, the Western Regional Little League Tournament and other events taking place in the latter part of 2010 will also feature a tie-in to San Bernardino’s Bicentennial, keeping the celebration alive throughout the year.

    Rabbi Hillel Cohn is the chairman of the Bicentennial Celebration Committee, and Erin Brinker is the chair of its Public Relations & Marketing and Independence Day Extravaganza committees. Other Bicentennial Celebration Committee members are Jim Smith (chair of the Community Engagement committee), Cheryl Brown (chair of the Youth Council, Intergovernmental and Arts committees), Beverly Bird (chair of the Legend of the Arrowhead committee), Steven Shaw (chair of the History committee), David Smith (chair of the Finance committee), Jane Sneddon (chair of the Parade committee), Martha Pinckney (chair of the Gala committee.) and John Valdivia. The mayor and members of the San Bernardino Common Council appointed these members.

    Additional community volunteers who have taken on leadership of other committees are: Rev. Malleis-Sternberg (Festival of Faiths), Edward Martinez (Leadership Cabinet), Peggi Hazlett (Mayor’s Run), Dr. Charles “Skip” Herbert (Coloring Books for Schools), Karen Blanco (Media) and The Art Institute of California – Inland Empire (Design).

    For additional details, contact Erin Brinker at (951) 323-9337 or go to http://sanbernardino200.org

    -end-