Ribbon Cut at Grand Opening

Friday March 28th marked the official grand opening of the Inspire Multicultural Center in San Bernardino. The occasion was celebrated with a jumper for kids, vendors from Universities to organizations such as Red Cross, and food. In addition, face painting, balloon art, and a pony ride were also available for the enjoyment of kids and their families. The Center welcomed anyone who could come. After filling in a form at the registration tables, guests received a raffle ticket and a paper that had been divided into a grid, with the names of the organizations that had booths. By visiting them and having the appropriate space marked, visitors could go to the food stalls after filling in a horizontal or vertical row to receive food. Visitors could also admire the large mural that covered one side of the building. Alex Fajardo, staff member at the center and speaker in the event, stated that the Center had been “opened on February 1” but that March 28th was the “official opening.” When asked about the services offered, he mentioned that the center provided classes as well as family counseling. He also said that the Center takes “a holistic approach” in which they promote mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. Staff member Jong Kim shared, “in the future we want the computer literacy classes as well." Another featured class includes yoga, as part of their promotion of physical wellness. Also attending were Anne Lama, a graduate nursing student from California State University San Bernardino, and her daughter Rebecca Lama, a nursing student from Azusa Pacific University. Both were there to provide free blood pressure screenings. Among the guests were Kimberly Morones and her sister Kathleen Morones. Kimberly is a student at Claremont Graduate School who heard of the event through her school. She came with her sister as part of a project from her school. The highlight of the event was the ribbon cutting. At 3 p.m., staff gathered children, with parent’s permission, to pose in a picture behind the ribbon, along with other involved members. Photos were taken, then the ribbon was cut and cheering erupted as the red ribbon fell. This was then followed by speeches and cultural entertainment, such as Aztec dancing. The activities continued until 6 p.m. The Inspire Multicultural Center will be available to anyone in the community and they encourage a visit, to make use of their many services.