COLTON>> On Saturday, June 10, at 2:30pm, the Colton Area Museum’s (CAM) guest speaker program will feature Manuel “Mel” Salazar, local historian and one of the principal information contributors to the Colton Sports Hall of Fame.
With many stories and background information to fill our curiosity, Mr. Salazar will take a look at the Life and Times of Juan Caldera, well-known entrepreneur and an influential promoter of the development of South Colton. Juan Caldera’s contributions to “the establishment of adult baseball leagues, boxing programs and public parks,” played an important part in the cultural fabric of Colton,” says Salazar. “This is why I do the work I do,” he added.
Knowing that this is the heart and soul of the City of Colton, residents, guests, and visitors are encouraged to attend, as “Mel” will bring to life the significant efforts put forth by this cultural “giant.”
Born in Riverside, Mr. Salazar lived his entire life in Colton, attending Garfield, Wilson, Colton Junior High, and Colton High School. For 50 years he also had a very successful barber shop business loyally serving the residents of Colton. Simply put, “everyone knew Mel,” smiled Dr. G, Council Member and CAM Board Member. “Those who have followed his work, know how he helped put three baseball teams, and Juan Caldera, into the Colton Sports Hall of Fame,” added Dr. G.
Community residents and visitors alike are invited to attend this exciting event on June 10, at 2:30pm. The Colton Area Museum offers an interesting slate of guest speakers throughout the year. They represent a wide variety of perspectives and experiences that are not only informative, but inspirational for those who want to know more about Colton’s History – past, present, and future.
The CAM will also be open that day, June 10, 11:00am – 2:00pm providing the opportunity to see the many outstanding displays of Colton history. The CAM address is 380 N. La Cadena Dr. in Colton. Regular CAM hours are Wednesdays and Fridays from 1:00pm-4:00pm, and on Saturdays 11:00am-2:00pm.
For more information about the museum and it programs, contact the museum at 824-8814, or Dr. G at 213-3730