Friday June 15th marked a momentous occasion for City News Group and its owners. The 66ers stadium was filled to capacity with a crowd of onlookers waiting expectantly. “I have never seen this stadium so packed!” exclaimed Jim Miller. Some guests were waiting to see a great game, some for an inexpensive night out with the family, and some awaiting the “Big Announcement.” City News Group friends and family were publicly invited to stop in and pick up their complimentary tickets to the game. “Phones have been ringing off the hook for two weeks for these tickets,” says April Reyna, City News Group’s graphic designer. From Girl Scouts to churches to large family groups, the community CNG serves came out in a show of great support for Margie Miller, City News Group Publisher, and new Editor in Chief, M’Liss Silva and City News Group.
Miller and Silva were meeting and greeting the community together beforehand as people continued to pour into the stadium. A host of well-wishers reached out to Miller via the social media platform Facebook as well as phone calls, emails, texts, and of course in person, “ Margie, you have been sensational and a positive spirit,” says Randall Macias Ceniceros of Colton. “Leaving on top Margie Miller! Enjoy this next phase my friend,” says Jamie Sachs also of Colton. Silva was received with a heartfelt welcome from the community of City News supporters, “Listen to the word of the Lord. God bless, good luck to both,” states Mike Kovak of Colton, who was also present at the game. “I wanted to call you and congratulate you, and also welcome you,” Elsie Chan of Loma Linda said in a personal phone call to Silva.
As Miller and Silva took to the mound hand in hand for the ceremonial pitch, friends, family, and supporters cheered as the crowd caught a glimpse of what God had brought together. Miller is turning over the reins of her 6 weekly newspapers to Silva. "I never thought this day would come, I love publishing these newspapers! I love serving these communities, highlighting all the good things people accomplish and the people that make it happen in the Inland Empire," expressed Miller.
So for Miller to turn over the reins of the City News Group is truly an act of God.
Miller will be spending time in Missouri focusing on her dad, who has mesothelioma lung cancer and doesn't have much time to live. Enjoying those precious moments is the most important thing to her at this time.
Both Miller and Silva would like to thank God, their husbands and families, City News Group Staff, City News Group friends and family, Steve Wendt of the 66ers and his team, City News Group advertisers, as well as the communities of Colton, Grand Terrace, Loma Linda, Moreno Valley, Redlands, and San Bernardino.