The Colton Area Museum Association has expanded its highly regarded Colton High School yearbook collection with the addition of the 2022, 2023, and 2024 editions. The donation, made last week, ensures the preserva-
tion of student history for future generations.
The acquisition was made possible through the efforts of Dr. Luis S. González, a longtime museum member and curator of the yearbook collection. Earlier this year, González reached out to Colton Joint Unified School District Superintendent Dr.
Frank Miranda to request assistance in securing the most recent editions. After coordinating with staff, the superintendent’s office confirmed the yearbooks had been obtained, and arrangements were made for a formal presentation to the museum.
By Manny Sandoval
Aviolent, calculated murder-for-hire plot stemming from a multimillion-dollar divorce dispute ended with the fatal shooting of businesswoman Yesenia Torres, 44, at a San Bernardino restaurant in broad daylight.
Following an extensive month-long investigation, five suspects, including her estranged husband, Sergio Reveles, 53, were arrested and charged with her murder.
The San Bernardino Police Department (SBPD), in collaboration with the FBI and other law enforcement agencies, unraveled the conspiracy after Torres was gunned down at Burger Point restaurant, located at 444 W. Mill St., on January 10, 2025, at approximately 11:49 a.m. Initially believed to be a robbery, the attack was later confirmed to be a contract killing.
As Torres was walking out of Burger Point and heading toward her Mercedes SUV, the suspects’ vehicle pulled up directly behind her.
Surveillance footage captured
the moment Gerardo Llamas, 31, the alleged shooter, exited the front passenger seat and approached her as she was about to enter her vehicle. He demanded her purse, grabbing hold of it as she sat in the driver’s seat just before she could close the door. A struggle ensued as Torres fought back, attempting to retain possession of her belongings. During the struggle, Llamas attempted to fire at her, but the gun jammed.
Witnesses, seeing the altercation unfold, rushed to Torres’ aid, but Llamas fired at them, forcing them to retreat inside the restaurant. According to Detective Martinez, the shooter fired nine rounds at Torres, with one expanded casing found when the gun jammed due to her resistance. Llamas chased Torres around her vehicle, continuing to fire at her before she attempted to escape back into the restaurant. She was struck by gunfire, which slowed her down, and as she tried to reach the entrance, Llamas delivered the fatal shot.
Torres collapsed at the doorway of Burger Point, where she was later pronounced dead at the scene when police, fire,
Colton Museum, cont. next pg.
Riverside Woman Shot by Colton Police After Allegedly Setting Fire
Knife
PHOTO DR. G
Front: Dr. Luis S. González, council member and community advocate; Dr. Frank Miranda, superintendent, CJUSD. Back: CAM board members Mary Helen Betancourt, Angela Wilkinson, Oscar Tostado (president), Chuck Vasquez, and Lori Sanchez.
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
San Bernardino Police Chief Darren Goodman speaks at a February 18, 2025, press conference at SBPD headquarters, announcing the arrests of five suspects in the murder-for-hire plot that led to the fatal shooting of businesswoman Yesenia Torres.
Colton Museum (cont.)
- “It’s an honor to donate these yearbooks to the Colton Area Museum for the purpose of preserving the rich history and memories of our students for generations to come,” Miranda said.
González has been spearheading efforts to complete the museum’s yearbook collection since 2012. Over the past 11 years, he has tracked down 51 editions, leaving only two— 1913 and 1924—unaccounted for.
“There’s always a chance,” said Angela Wilkinson, a Colton
Murder (cont.)
- and AMR personnel arrived.
Area Museum board member who has been an enthusiastic supporter of the project.
The museum’s records indicate that the first CHS yearbook was printed in 1902. However, there is a notable gap between 1915 and 1922, largely due to material shortages during World War I. Despite these missing volumes, the collection remains nearly complete and serves as a record of student life spanning 123 years.
“The collection represents a huge part of Colton history,” said museum board president Oscar Tostado.
Authorities quickly identified two primary suspects within four hours of the murder: Llamas as the shooter and Arnoldo Ruelas, 54, the alleged getaway driver. A key break came when a citizen provided a license plate number and vehicle description, allowing detectives to track the suspects' movements. SBPD Detective Martinez explained how the investigation unfolded, stating that witness accounts and surveillance footage provided crucial leads in identifying the suspects.
The vehicle was later found abandoned in a Walmart parking lot on the east side of town. Surveillance footage showed the suspects switching to a second vehicle after changing their clothing inside a nearby business. SBPD officers obtained additional surveillance footage from another business, where the suspects entered briefly before leaving in the second vehicle.
By the morning of January 11, SBPD’s surveillance team and the FBI Inland Regional Apprehension Team located Llamas in Bakersfield and Ruelas in Los Angeles. Both men were taken into custody the following morning. Upon further investigation, authorities uncovered a broader conspiracy that pointed to a contract killing.
Additional suspects were identified, including Reynaldo Ruelas, 37, the younger brother of the getaway driver, who allegedly acted as an intermediary between the hitmen and those orchestrating the murder. Investigators later determined that Sergio Reveles, 53, Torres’ estranged husband, and Juan Perez, 42, a local businessman who leases property from Reveles’ business Sergio’s Pallets, were behind the contract killing.
As detectives built their case, they discovered that Torres’ murder was orchestrated over a period of months as part of an ongoing financial battle between her and her estranged husband. The couple was locked in a contentious divorce that had lasted two years, with millions of dollars in assets at stake.
Detective Martinez confirmed that evidence points to Torres being stalked for months before her killing. He stated that surveillance footage
To celebrate the latest additions, the Colton Area Museum will display the entire CHS yearbook collection for the next two weeks. Community members and visitors are invited to explore the collection, along with other exhibits, during the museum’s operating hours on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The museum is also preparing for its 12th Annual Colton Area Museum Day on May 3.
For more information, contact Dr. G at 909-213-3730.
By Manny Sandoval
Ashley, the largest furniture retailer in North America, partnered with HeartWorks this past weekend to raise awareness for congenital heart defects (CHD) and support groundbreaking medical research.
on a national scale, its research efforts have a significant impact within the Inland Empire, bringing new hope and expanded treatment options to families facing CHD.
and witness accounts indicate that she was followed in the days leading up to the attack.
On February 6, 2025, SBPD, with support from the FBI, CHP, San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, and Riverside Sheriff’s Department, executed search warrants at seven locations. These included the homes and businesses of Reveles and Perez. During these raids, authorities seized over $286,000 in cash, multiple firearms, and clothing described by witnesses and seen on surveillance footage.
Authorities believe the large sum of money was intended as payment for Torres’ murder. The search warrants were conducted simultaneously across multiple locations, with law enforcement officials targeting the residences and businesses of all individuals involved.
By February 13, all five suspects were in custody and formally charged with murder. The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office charged the suspects with murder (PC 187) and filed special circumstances enhancements for robbery, financial gain, and lying in wait.
District Attorney Jason Anderson acknowledged the severity of the charges but reminded the public that due process remains in effect. “Each of these individuals is innocent until proven guilty, as protections they have in this country,” Anderson said.
All five suspects pleaded not guilty at their arraignment and are being held without bail. Their next court hearing is scheduled for March 14, 2025, at the San Bernardino Justice Center.
San Bernardino Police Chief Darren Goodman praised the investigative work of SBPD’s homicide team, noting their 80 percent clearance rate, which is significantly higher than the national average. “I want to make it known that this incident is not an anomaly,” Goodman said. “If you commit a murder in the city of San Bernardino, there is an 80 percent chance that you will be hunted down and brought to justice.”
Authorities urge anyone with further information on the case to contact Detective M. Yeun at (909) 384-5665, Detective D. Martinez at (909) 384-5619, or Homicide Sergeant E. Campos at (909) 384-5613.
The “Spread the Love with HeartWorks” in-store event, held at Ashley locations across Southern California, connected customers with the nonprofit’s mission to revolutionize CHD treatment.
HeartWorks, founded in 2010, builds upon the pioneering work of the Todd and Karen Wanek Family Program for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) at Mayo Clinic, accelerating CHD research and developing innovative cell-based therapies.
Through its collaboration with Ashley, HeartWorks is reaching more families impacted by CHD, including those in the Inland Empire.
“Ashley is proud to partner with HeartWorks,” the company stated. “This collaboration is vital to our community because it brings hope and tangible progress to families affected by CHD, supporting cutting-edge research that promises life-changing outcomes.”
The Feb. 8 event was held at several Ashley locations, including Colton, Montclair, Murrieta, Palm Desert, San Diego, Bakersfield, Oxnard, Palmdale, Santa Ana, and West Los Angeles.
Each store featured local vendors, with guests at the Colton location enjoying churro sundaes from Luci's Party Cart.
To further engage customers, Ashley hosted a one-day-only sweepstakes for a 50-inch TCL Class S4 4K UHD HDR LED Smart TV with Google TV. Guests could enter the giveaway by visiting participating stores between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.
While HeartWorks operates
The organization’s advancements in cell-based therapies and research consortiums are working toward a long-term goal of developing new heart tissue and, ultimately, finding a cure for CHD.
Ashley’s support for HeartWorks aligns with its Beyond Home Promise, a commitment that extends beyond home furnishings to include community engagement and medical research initiatives.
“We are proud to use our platform to raise awareness for vital causes like CHD research and work together towards a healthier future,” the company stated.
Alongside the HeartWorks initiative, Ashley launched its Presidents Day Sale, offering significant discounts, including:
Modular sectionals starting at $699.98
0% interest for 60 months with no minimum purchase (instore only)
Save up to $200 on adjustable bases
Mattress savings, including up to $1,000 off select models
Ashley emphasized its deeprooted commitment to the Colton and Grand Terrace communities, stating that its mission to “inspire the love of home and enrich the lives of those around us” is reflected in initiatives like the HeartWorks partnership.
By using its platform to raise awareness, Ashley is amplifying the conversation around CHD research, ensuring that families in Colton and beyond have access to the latest advancements in treatment and hope for a healthier future.
Public Safety
Riverside Woman Shot by Colton Police After Allegedly Setting Fire to Vehicle, Charging Officers with Knife
By Manny Sandoval
A36-year-old Riverside woman was shot by Colton police early Thursday, Feb. 13, at approximately 12:20 a.m., after she allegedly set fire to a vehicle and advanced toward officers with a knife, authorities said.
Officers responded to multiple reports of a woman armed with a knife at the ARCO gas station on the 1200 block of East Washington Street, according to a press release from the Colton Police Department. Witnesses reported that the woman, identified as Leandra Michelle Guerrero, was attempting to open car doors.
Upon arrival, officers spoke with a reporting party who told them Guerrero had entered his vehicle and refused to leave. Officers found Guerrero sitting in the driver’s seat of a Toyota Sequoia parked near the gas pumps, police said.
Despite multiple commands from officers to exit the vehicle, Guerrero allegedly lit the interior on fire before stepping out and approaching officers while still holding the knife, according to police.
At that point, an officer-involved shooting occurred, and Guerrero was struck by gunfire. Officers provided first aid until emergency responders from American Medical Response arrived and transported her to a
local hospital, where she remains in critical condition, police said.
The fire was extinguished by the Colton Fire Department, and a knife was recovered at the scene.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office have taken over the investigation.
Authorities urge anyone with information regarding the incident to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 3873506, referencing case #602500010 H#2025-010.
San Bernardino Police Target Organized Retail Crime Rings and Theft Linked to Economic Hardship
By Manny Sandoval
With retail theft on the rise, San Bernardino police officials reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the issue head-on during Small Business Watch on Feb. 11 at Studio D in downtown San Bernardino.
Sgt. Sharon Bonshire and Detective Araceli Mata detailed the department’s approach to retail crime, emphasizing that officers are targeting both large-scale organized theft rings and lower-level offenses, such as shoplifting for daily necessities.
“Our main mission is to show businesses we are here for them,” Bonshire said. “We want them to come here and stay here and show them we are invested in their businesses.”
Bonshire and Mata stressed that SBPD is equally focused on dismantling organized crime networks funneling stolen goods into resale markets and addressing theft motivated by economic hardship. The department is also working
closely with businesses of all sizes to enforce laws and deter crimes through increased patrols and collaborative prevention strategies.
“This is a quality-of-life issue,” Bonshire said. “Though these may seem like minor crimes, they are not minor to us or to the businesses dealing with them.”
As part of its broader crimefighting strategy, SBPD is ramping up social media efforts to highlight retail crime enforcement and push the message that theft will not be tolerated. Officials also noted that cases are moving efficiently through the courts, reinforcing the city’s commitment to prosecuting offenders.
San Bernardino Police Department Dispatcher Robert Alvarado provided insight into the volume of emergency calls the department receives, revealing that dispatchers field approximately 500,000 calls annually—each handling between 60 and 100 calls per shift. To keep up with demand, SBPD is actively recruiting new dispatchers.
Councilmember Treasure Ortiz also spoke at the event, shifting the conversation toward infrastructure improvements and the city’s façade program. While acknowledging that crime reduction efforts don’t always yield immediate visible change, she emphasized the city's push to create a cleaner, more inviting aesthetic that reflects its progress.
“We’re increasing efforts to create a brighter city with a more appealing aesthetic to reflect the progress we’ve made,” Ortiz said.
Ortiz also addressed city leadership, pointing to efforts to move away from a historically high-turnover for the city manager position, which she said has hindered long-term stability.
San Bernardino Police Department is hosting a Retail Theft Task Force Business Meeting on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, 10 AM to 12 PM at 710 N D Street, San Bernardino.
Teacher Arrested for Sexual Abuse of Former Student
By Riverside PD
On February 11, 2025, Riverside Police began investigating a female juvenile’s report of sexual abuse by a former teacher. The alleged crimes occurred during summer school in June 2022 at Terrace Elementary in Riverside, involving a 4th-grade teacher.
The following day, detectives from the Sexual Assault – Child Abuse (SACA) Unit began investigating the allegations. As a result, they arrested 53-year-old Hector Edward Zaldivar of Ontario. He was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center on charges of lewd and lascivious acts upon a child under 14 using force. He is being held on one million dollars bail.
Mr. Zaldivar is employed by the Alvord Unified School District, and detectives suspect there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact SACA Detective Steven Espinosa at (951) 353-7120 or SEspinosa@RiversideCA.gov.
For anonymous tips, the Riverside Police Department’s "Atlas 1" mobile app offers a secure "Send a Message" feature. The app is available for download both APPLE and ANDROID devices.
STATEMENT FROM ALVORD UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
The health and safety of our students is our highest priority, and we are fully cooperating with the Riverside Police Department as they conduct their investigation.
Alvord Unified School District has placed the teacher on immediate administrative leave and is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and support of our students, staff, and families. We encourage parents to have open conversations with their children and reach out if they need guidance or support.
Counseling services are available for students and staff, and we urge anyone in need of assistance to contact their child’s teacher or site administrator. While schools are closed next week, families can also reach us at studentservices@alvordschools.org.
We understand that this news is deeply troubling, and we remain committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. If anyone has information that may assist in the investigation, please contact Riverside Police Detective Steven Espinosa at (951) 353-7120 or SEspinosa@RiversideCA.gov.
PHOTO CORRINA BORSUK
August
Lowell Milken Surprises Alta Loma Teacher with $25,000 Milken Educator Award for California
Community News
American Sign Language (ASL) teacher Danyel Smith wasn’t quite sure why most of the student body, fellow faculty and staff were asked to gather in the gymnasium at Alta Loma High School Tuesday morning: “We were told it was a special assembly recognizing our school. But ultimately we didn’t know what today was about.”
She would soon find out – and what a surprise it was.
Smith, who also serves as World Language Department Chair for Alta Loma, was announced as California’s sole Milken Educator Award recipient for 2024-25. Along with the Award’s national recognition and membership to the Milken Educator Network, Smith received a $25,000 cash prize she can use however she chooses. She is the first recipient awarded in the Chaffey Joint Union High School District.
The crowd of more than 1,500 erupted in cheers as Awards Founder Lowell Milken announced Smith’s name.
“Exemplary educators like Danyel Smith have the important role of preparing students to advance successfully in learning and life,” Milken said. “Danyel’s positive impact is reflected in the tremendous popularity of the American Sign Language program at Alta Loma, her compassion for her students, and her dedication to her colleagues, school and broader community. We commend Danyel for choosing teaching as a profession and welcome her into the Milken Educator Network, where she will have powerful opportunities to broaden her reach. Congratulations.”
Smith joins a national network of over 3,000 Milken Educators spanning the Awards’ 37-year history as the nation’s preeminent teacher-recognition program. Hailed as the “Oscars of Teaching,” the Milken Educator Awards inspire educators, students and entire communities to “Celebrate, Elevate and Activate” the K12 teaching profession and encourage young, capable people to pursue teaching as a career. More than $75 million in individual financial prizes and more than $145 million have been invested in the Milken Educator Award national network overall.
“I think I have finally stopped shaking,” Smith said “I don’t think it has settled in yet. I don’t think I’ve processed it all. I feel that as a teacher we kind of keep com-
Community News
San Bernardino City Unified School District’s (SBCUSD) Norton Elementary School and Sierra High School are among America’s Healthiest Schools for 2024.
America's Healthiest Schools is an annual recognition program from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation that celebrates schools for implementing policies and practices to promote health and well-being. Schools are evaluated in nine areas Healthier Generation considers important to creating healthy schools.
Norton and Sierra are 2 of 879 schools across 30 states in the U.S. honored this school year. Sierra was also a 2023 honoree.
Increasing Family & Community Engagement—Engaging the school community, involving parents and caregivers in supporting student success and connecting families to health and wellness resources
Implementing Local School Wellness Policy—Promoting healthy practices through implementation of the District’s wellness policy and reviewing progress, successes and challenges
Cultivating Staff Well-Being—Actively promoting relationship building among staff and fostering a culture of gratitude among colleagues
posure in front of students, but I am feeling all of the feelings. I’m unbelievably flattered.”
Outstanding educators such as Smith are not aware of their candidacy for the Award. Recipients are sought out while early- to mid-career for what they have achieved — and for the promise of what they will accomplish given the resources and opportunities afforded by the Award.
Smith has been instrumental in the growth of the school’s ASL program. She ignites students’ passion for ASL early, developing relationships with nearby elementary and middle schools through events such as “Sprouting Signers,” which allows her students to teach ASL to visiting elementary schoolers. Smith’s students enact their signing skills through Christmas caroling with the choir, signing the national anthem at school assemblies, and providing ASL translation for school events. Smith’s ASL level one (beginning) class has a 98% pass rate – with over 55% of incoming ALHS students choosing to take ASL year after year to fulfil their world language credit.
“We are incredibly proud of Danyel and so appreciative of the important work she does, not just on behalf of our students but the community at large. It’s unusual for a high school to offer ASL, so this kind of recognition helps uplift the importance of being able to offer this to our students,” said Dr. Mathew Holton, Superintendent of the Chaffey District. “It also reflects the outstanding work that is done day in and day out across our District by teachers who are dedicated to their profession and the students we serve.”
“It’s such an honor to be able to celebrate this distinguished recognition with Danyel and our entire campus community. She embodies what great teaching is all about – caring for our students, and preparing them not just for the next step in their educational journey, but for life,” said Jason Kaylor, Alta Loma’s Principal.
Smith’s students wholeheartedly agree.
“She’s like a mother. She’s very engaging, attentive and engaging. She puts her whole heart into everything she does and everyone she communicated with,” said Sabrina Tepper, a junior at Alta Loma.
“I came (to Alta Loma) during my first year and I was kind of far behind. She got me caught up. She’s just very special. Very inspiring,” said Luke Foreman, a senior.
“As principal, I could not be more proud that the efforts of Norton’s staff to value and nurture the whole child and promote physical, mental and socialemotional health in conjunction with academic success have been recognized on a national scale,” said Norton Principal Elizabeth Cochrane Benoit. “Of course, this would not have been possible without the support of our Board of Education and Superintendent and our Norton school community.”
Norton Elementary was recognized in seven of the nine areas Healthier Generation considers when evaluating schools:
Supporting School Health Services— Enhancing school health services to support the physical and mental well-being of students by routinely conducting health screenings and addressing chronic health conditions
Improving Nutrition & Food Access— Maximizing school meal participation, collaborating with teachers on nutrition education for students and partnering with community organizations to improve nutrition security for families
Bolstering Physical Education & Activity—Provide evidence-based physical education and integrate physical activity throughout the school day, including students with special health needs
Strengthening Social-Emotional Health & Learning—Positively motivating student participation and learning and providing opportunities for students to regulate their emotions and learn from their mistakes
According to Sierra Principal Hector Murrieta, the continuation high school serves students who are behind in high school credits or may need a flexible educational environment due to personal obligations or challenges, making it vital that the campus prioritizes student mental and emotional well-being. With help from key partners like Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health, the school offers on-campus counseling services and support groups, creating a nurturing environment where the emotional well-being of students is as important as their academic success.
Sierra expanded the number of areas in which it excelled from three to six. The three areas that Sierra continued to excel in from last year were:
Strengthening Social-Emotional Health & Learning
Improving Nutrition & Food Access
Implementing Local School Wellness Policy
Sierra was additionally recognized this year for expanding its efforts in:
Increasing Family & Community Engagement
Supporting School Health Services
Promoting Tobacco-Free School—Promoting prevention and a tobacco-free campus and supporting students in cessation efforts
Sierra High School holds an official ribbon-cutting ceremony in
2024 to celebrate joining the California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP), which supports schools’ efforts to partner with local government and community agencies to improve student outcomes related to academics and health and social services.
PHOTO CJUHSD
From left: Milken Educator Awards Founder Lowell Milken; Kirk Brown (CA ‘99); Alta Loma High School Principal Jason Kaylor; recipient Danyel Smith (CA '24); Chaffey Joint Union High School District Superintendent Dr. Mathew Holton; and Alexis Arias (CA ‘23).
Ontario Airport Expands Nonstop Flights to Los Cabos, Chicago, and Taiwan via Volaris, United, and STARLUX
By Manny Sandoval
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is expanding its international and domestic reach with new nonstop flights to Los Cabos, Chicago, Taiwan, Morelia, and León. Volaris will introduce 14 weekly flights to Mexico in July, United Airlines will begin daily service to Chicago O’Hare in May, and STARLUX Airlines will launch flights to Taiwan in June. The announcements mark a major milestone for ONT as it continues its rapid growth as Southern California’s newest global gateway.
Leading the expansion is Volaris, which will introduce 14 new weekly flights across three destinations in Mexico, marking the largest single-day international service expansion in ONT’s history. Beginning in July, the airline will launch daily flights to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), four weekly flights to Morelia International Airport (MLM), and three weekly flights to León/Bajío International Airport (BJX).
Volaris, which already operates twice-daily flights to Guadalajara, will now run a total of 28 weekly departures from ONT.
“This increase in Volaris’ routes reaffirms our commitment to offering customers in and outside of México the best opportunities to travel more affordably, comfortably, and safely,” said Holger Blankenstein, Executive Vice President of Volaris. “We are thrilled to drive Ontario’s largest international expansion ever and look forward to improving access to affordable air travel across the LA basin.”
Expanding ONT’s domestic network, United Airlines will launch daily nonstop service between ONT and Chicago O’Hare International Airport
IHO Welcomes First Residents to Affordable Housing Community for Transitional Age Youth in Riverside
(ORD) starting May 22. The route will connect Inland Empire travelers to United’s global hub, offering connections to more than 180 destinations worldwide.
“This welcome news reflects the confidence of our airline partners in our facilities, services and amenities, and the strong demand for air travel through our Southern California gateway,” said Atif Elkadi, OIAA chief executive officer.
Further expanding ONT’s international connectivity, STARLUX Airlines will commence four weekly nonstop flights between ONT and Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) on June 2. The flights, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, will be served by Airbus A350900 aircraft featuring first-class, business, premium economy, and economy seating.
“We are most grateful to STARLUX Airlines for its confidence in our airport, employees and community neighbors,” said Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) Board of Commissioners. “Greater Ontario is the gateway to Southern California – a premier destination served by one of the fastestgrowing and most popular airports in the United States.”
The expansion comes as ONT continues to set new records, surpassing 7 million travelers in 2024—a 67% increase since the airport transitioned to local control in 2016. Additionally, international travel at ONT reached an all-time high last year, growing 5.1% to 438,896 passengers.
With the addition of these major routes to Mexico, the Midwest, and Asia, ONT is reinforcing its position as a key hub for travelers seeking greater accessibility and convenience.
Community News
Innovative Housing Opportunities (IHO), one of California’s leading affordable housing developers, has opened its latest affordable housing community in the City of Riverside. Called The Aspire, the community, at the corner of 3rd Street and Fairmount Boulevard, features 33 fully furnished housing units for transitional age youth including young people aging out of the foster care system.
The Aspire will offer onsite educational wraparound services and programs for its new residents, provided by the California Family Life Center. This nonprofit organization has been serving foster youth in the Riverside area for over 40 years. The development is also a collaboration with the Riverside Community College District. Some of the services provided include academic, career, and financial aid counseling, as well as job placement assistance.
“We envisioned The Aspire as a launchpad to equip these young people with the tools to chart a path for ongoing personal and economic success. Within this community we can provide stability and safety as well as help our resident to plan for and pursue their future goals,” said IHO President and CEO Rochelle Mills.
The Aspire is also a significant aspect of Riverside Mayor Lock Dawson’s Mayor’s Challenge to End Youth Homelessness. When the program was launched in 2023, city leaders noted that youth who are homeless are more than five times more likely to be chronically homeless as adults, and foster youth are especially vulnerable.
“No young person should have to worry about
shelter, or sleep on the streets when they should be attending school or becoming a member of our workforce,” Lock Dawson said. “We did it for veterans, and now we can do it for our youth.”
The Aspire’s 33 furnished, one-bedroom units are approximately 450 square feet in size with a patio/deck. Community amenities include an interior courtyard, roof terrace, communal living room, and public art. The Aspire is in a walkable neighborhood close to the downtown area with access to transit and employment, recreation, retail, and cultural offerings.
“The Aspire is our first development intended specifically for foster youth transitioning out of the system. We hope to make this development replicable and scalable so that we can continue to serve this at-risk population,” added Mills.
According to the National Foster Youth Institute, housing instability makes it more difficult to complete higher education and maintain steady employment. About 25% of former foster youth experience homelessness within four years of being emancipated from the system at age 18, according to the institute. Nationally, 50% of people who experience homelessness have spent time in foster care.
The $25 million Aspire development was funded with Housing Authority funds from the City of Riverside, project-based housing choice vouchers from Riverside County and California’s Housing and Community Development/Multifamily Housing Program.
Including The Aspire, IHO has nine properties with a total of 672 affordable housing units under management in Southern California.
PHOTO ERICA NEVARES
IECN News Publisher Manny Sandoval walking through the terminal at Los Cabos International Airport.
PHOTO OTTO MEJIA
The Aspire, Riverside's new affordable housing community at the corner of 3rd Street and Fairmount Boulevard, offers 33 furnished units designed to support transitional age youth, including those aging out of foster care. This initiative, a collaboration between Innovative Housing Opportunities and local agencies, aims to provide both stability and a stepping stone toward future success for its residents
Petitioner or Attorney: Larissa Amelia GonzalesGarc a, 1784 N Rancho Ave , Colton, CA 92324 Superior Court of California County
San Bernardino 247 W 3rd St San Bernardino CA 92415 San Bernardino District PETITION OF: Larissa
Amel a Gonzales-Garcia, FOR CHANGE OF NAME ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case Number: CIV SB 2500178 TO ALL INTERESTED PER-
SONS: Petitioner: Larissa
Amel a Gonzales-Garcia filed a petition with this court for a decree chang ng names as follows: Present name: Larissa Amelia Gonzales-Garcia to Proposed name: Larissa Amelia Gonzales THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause if any, why the petit on for change of name should not be granted Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the
NOTICE OF HEARING
Date: 03/19/25 Time: 8:30 am Dept: S33 The address of the court is: same as noted above
A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general c rculation, printed in this county: Colton Courier
Dated: JAN 22 2025 Gilbert G Ochoa
CUCAMONGA CA 91730 County of Principal P ace of Business: SAN BERNARDINO Business ma ling address: 12130 SANTA MARGARITA CT RANCHO CUCAMONGA CA 91730 Name: SITESCAN SUBSURFACE IMAGING, INC , 12130 SANTA MARGARITA CT RANCHO CUCAMONGA CA 91730 State of Inc /Org /Reg : CA Inc /Org /Reg No : 4579781 This business s/was conducted by (a/an): CORPORATION Registrant commenced to transact business under the fict tious business name or names isted above on NOT APPLICABLE By signing I declare that a l information n th s statement is true and correct A reg strant who dec ares as true any mater a matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions
Inc /Org /Reg :CA
/Org /Reg No :
ness is/was conducted
LIABILITY
to trans-
under the fictit
or names l sted
Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco Launches 2026 Governor Bid–But Will His Ties to Extremists Cost Him?
By Manny Sandoval
Riverside County Sheriff
Chad Bianco, a staunch conservative and vocal critic of California’s Democratic leadership, announced his candidacy for governor on Monday, setting the stage for a highly contentious 2026 election.
“We’re here to announce our campaign to be the next governor of California,” Bianco declared at Avila’s Historic 1929 Event Center in downtown Riverside, launching his campaign on President’s Day.
Bianco, the first major Republican to enter the race, framed his campaign as a referendum on what he described as decades of failed policies by Democratic leadership. “It is only our Democrat elected officials who are responsible for the decline of California,” he said. “What have they given us? Rampant crime, higher taxes, the highest cost of living in our nation, tent encampments in every major city, more fentanyl deaths, catastrophic fires, a broken homeowners’ insurance market, and more people struggling to afford groceries and gas. Californians deserve better.”
A Polarizing Figure in Law Enforcement
Bianco, first elected Riverside County sheriff in 2018 and reelected in 2022, has built a reputation as an outspoken right-wing conservative. He has been affiliated with the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association and has been a guest on conservative media platforms, including Fox News and right-wing YouTube channels.
His tenure has not been without controversy. In 2022, Riverside County jails saw the highest number of inmate deaths in 15 years, prompting lawsuits against the county and
Bianco himself. In 2023, the California Department of Justice launched an investigation into the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department over allegations of unconstitutional policing, excessive force, and inhumane jail conditions. Bianco defended his department, stating, “Every single one of these inmate deaths was out of anyone’s control.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bianco refused to enforce state mandates and openly opposed vaccination efforts. He later tested positive for the virus in 2021.
A Campaign Against “Radical Activism”
In his campaign speech, Bianco reflected on his move to California in 1989, touting his ability to achieve the “California Dream” through hard work, homeownership, and family. However, he lamented what he saw as the state’s decline.
“For the past 36 years, I achieved and lived my California dream,” he said. “Unfortunately, for my kids, destructive policies, political agendas, government overreach, radical activism, and special interests have turned the California dream into a nightmare.”
Bianco, who has been a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump and the MAGA movement, criticized the state’s political class, including wealthy candidates entering the race. “As I watched over the past year or so, as career politicians and millionaires and billionaires position themselves for the governor election of 2026, I realize that we are blindly continuing onto this path of destruction,” he said.
The comment comes despite Bianco’s alignment with a political movement heavily supported by billionaires such as Elon Musk and Peter Thiel.
Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. Elected Chair of San Bernardino's Continuum of
Care, Spearheads Countywide Homelessness Initiatives
Community News
San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair and Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. has been elected to serve as chair of the Continuum of Care (CoC) Board, which is responsible for building a countywide network to connect housing and supportive services to the homeless, securing funding for housing projects, and overseeing how the funding is used.
The CoC Board is comprised of representatives from cities, the county and nonprofit agencies that work together to create policies and ensure accountability and results in meeting the county’s goals in addressing homelessness.
port to the homeless community.
“We want to thank Pastor Jessica for her quality leadership and dedication to addressing homelessness,” said Baca, Jr. “We are grateful for all that the CoC Board achieved during her tenure.”
The board supports a range of projects including the annual Point-In-Time Count, which provides a snapshot of the county’s homeless population, enabling officials to track progress toward reducing homelessness and ensuring resources are being directed where they are most needed.
The annual count is crucial for securing grant funding to assist individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Facing Scrutiny Over Oath Keepers Ties Bianco’s name surfaced in a 2021 leak of Oath Keepers membership records, revealing he had paid for a one-year membership in 2014. The far-right militia group has been linked to violent opposition against the U.S. government, including participation in the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. Bianco later disavowed the group’s actions, stating he never renewed his membership after 2014.
The Road to 2026 Bianco’s campaign seeks to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, who will be finishing his second and final term in 2026. While Bianco is the first major Republican to enter the race, speculation is growing over potential Democratic contenders, including former U.S. Senator and Vice President Kamala Harris, who has been rumored to be considering a run.
As California grapples with rising homelessness, high living costs, and environmental crises, Bianco’s campaign will likely test the appetite for a far-right candidate in a state where Republicans have struggled to gain traction in recent elections.
Bianco’s gubernatorial bid is expected to draw both staunch support from conservative voters and fierce opposition from Democrats and moderates. With Democrats holding a supermajority in the state legislature and Newsom’s administration firmly entrenched, Bianco may face an uphill battle in a state that has not elected a Republican governor since Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006.
As Bianco himself noted, the one thing California still has going for it, in his view, is “the weather.”
As chair of the board, Baca, Jr. will provide oversight, direction and leadership to the CoC Board; conduct and facilitate CoC Board meetings; set meeting agendas with assistance from the San Bernardino County Office of Homeless Services; and appoint committee chairs.
“I want to thank the CoC board members for giving me the honor of chairing this important committee,” said Baca, Jr.
“Homelessness is a major issue that requires all of our partners coming together to tackle this problem. I look forward to working with my colleagues to make a significant impact and provide much needed support to people experiencing homelessness.”
Baca, Jr. is preceded as chair by Pastor Jessica Alexander, executive director of Operation Grace, an organization that provides shelter, housing and sup-
The CoC Board also supports the annual Homeless Summit, which brings together members of the Board of Supervisors, city leaders, homeless service providers, county executives, county department directors and youth advocates to discuss priorities for addressing homelessness in the county and to highlight key successes during the previous year.
In addition to supporting these programs, the board actively works to secure housing grants and strengthen partnerships to improve the delivery of supportive services to the homeless.
For more information about the CoC Board and its meeting schedule, please visit sbchp.sbcounty.gov.
Employment Opportunities
Associate Conductor (San Bernardino, CA) F/T, Conduct, direct, plan, & lead instrumental or vocal performances by musical artists or groups, such as orchestras, bands & choirs. Responsible for supv'g stage mgmt for rehearsals & performances incl all related stage set-up activities. Coord'n w/ Musician's Librarian as directed by Music Director to obtain music needed for performances. Assist & provide support to the Music Director, guest conductors, & guest artists. $59,613.00/yr. Bach's deg in Instrumental Conducting, or in Music or closely related, +24 months of exp in job offered or as Conductor, Music Director, Music Instructor or closely related. Also accepted: Master's deg in Instrumental Conducting, or in Music or closely related. Email resume to: San Bernardino Symphony Association, Attn: Anne L. Viricel, Executive Director at: alvirice@sanbernardinosymphony.org
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco announces his 2026 gubernatorial bid on Feb. 17, 2025, at Avila’s Historic 1929 Event Center in Riverside, vowing to challenge California’s Democratic leadership.
