On Oct. 12, the Colton Council of Churches hosted an All-Church Community Breakfast that brought together 40 pastors, church leaders, and representatives from various local congregations. The event, held at the Colton Woman’s Club, is part of the council’s mission to foster networking, prayer, and dis-
cussion among area churches.
“This event was certainly a good step in that direction,” said Edward Nunez of Echoes of Love Ministries.
The breakfast, organized by Dr. G, founder of the Colton Council of Churches, included an opening prayer by Arnold Avalos (Missionary Bible), the Pledge of Allegiance led by Nick Zupkofska (Grove
Community Church), and a trumpet rendition of “America” by Dr. G.
Dr. G launched the All-Church Community Breakfast initiative with support from local organizations like the Colton Woman’s Club and the Colton Lions Club. “We were very happy to help,” said Cynthia Calderilla, president of the Colton
By Manny Sandoval
During the October 15th Coffee with a Cop event, San Bernardino Police Chief Darren Goodman did not hold back in his criticism of The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Proposition 47, highlighting their impact on public safety and the city’s reputation. Chief Goodman expressed frustration over a recent lawsuit involving the ACLU, which resulted in a temporary halt to the city’s ability to conduct homeless encampment cleanups.
The lawsuit, filed by the ACLU, was recently dismissed by U.S. District Judge Terry J. Hatter after an agreement was reached between the two parties. The agreement led to updated city policies on how homeless encampment cleanups are conducted. With the dismissal of the case, an injunction that had previously prohibited the City of San Bernardino from conducting these cleanups was lifted, allowing the city to move forward with addressing the homeless situation in its parks.
"This lawsuit wasn’t about the plaintiffs,
it was about money," Goodman said, referring to the legal battle that had delayed critical city actions. "Once we clear the parks, they will not be coming back. It will no longer be acceptable to camp in a park or on a sidewalk."
The dismissal was announced at a press conference on October 2 at San Bernardino City Hall, where Mayor Helen Tran addressed the gathering of media, local officials, and community members. "This is the number one concern we hear from our residents," said Mayor Tran, who was
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
Churches (cont.)
Lions Club. “We’ll set the date for next year because this is an excellent community event.”
The program featured a formal welcome, a shared meal, traditional hymns, a message on prayer by Dr. G, and special prayers offered by Pastor Joshua Sarmiento (Amazing Grace Church) and Pastor David Hallbauer (Missionary Bible Church).
According to Dr. G, the council aims to bring together representatives from all Colton-area churches. Since its formation in February, 25 churches have participated in the council’s monthly meetings, with more joining in. Events like the AllChurch Prayer Breakfast and the recent Community Breakfast are helping to establish an annual schedule of spiritually significant gatherings.
Cathy Cook of Greater Works Church emphasized the importance of networking within the church community. “It’s important to be aware of what’s happening with churches in the area,” she said. Pastor Hallbauer, who offered the closing prayer, added, “It’s good to get to know new people,” noting that he is new to the community.
Looking ahead, the Colton Council of Churches plans to continue its meetings and expand its outreach efforts. Dr. G has already reserved the Colton Woman’s Club for monthly meetings through December, with plans to continue into the new year. Meetings are typically held on the fourth Saturday of each month at 9 a.m.
For more information about the Colton Council of Churches and its initiatives, contact Dr. G at 909-213-3730.
Rialto Middle School Celebrates 100 Years of Integrity and Determination
By IECN Staff
Rjoined by members of the San Bernardino City Council. "The lifting of the injunction gives us options for addressing unhoused individuals and their property compassionately as we clean up our parks."
Judge Hatter’s injunction, issued in January, had prevented the city from conducting encampment cleanups, leading to a significant increase in tents at city parks. With few individuals willing to accept alternative housing solutions, the parks saw a decline in usage by residents, while conditions deteriorated. Goodman emphasized the importance of now being able to move forward with cleanups and enforcement, signaling a step toward reclaiming public spaces for the community.
Goodman also addressed the need for broader public safety reform, specifically discussing Proposition 36, which seeks to repeal key elements of Proposition 47. On November 4, 2014, California voters passed Proposition 47, a law that reduced most drug possession offenses and thefts of property valued under $950 from felonies to misdemeanors. While Chief Goodman did not advise residents on how to vote, he highlighted the significant impact Prop 47 has had on crime rates, including a reported 30 percent increase in rapes.
By voting YES on Prop 36, it will restore felony charges and increase sentences for certain drug and theft crimes, an important step in reversing the damage caused by Prop 47 and improving public safety across the Inland Empire.
Additionally, reports from the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) indicate that since Prop 47, certain property crimes such as auto thefts and commercial burglaries have increased, and the clearance rate for property crimes—meaning the percentage of cases leading to arrests—has dropped significantly and yes on Prop 36, it will restore felony charges and increase sentences for certain drug and theft crimes, an important step in reversing the damage caused by Prop 47 and improving public safety across the Inland Empire.
Lieutenant Nick Oldendorf joined Goodman in discussing the city’s public perception issues, particularly how negative stereotypes have overshadowed recent progress. "When people come to spaces like Studio D and say, ‘I don’t feel like I’m in San Bernardino,’ that’s exactly the problem," Oldendorf said. "There’s a dollar cost to reputation, and our city has suffered for decades. But while some of it was earned, not all of it was deserved."
Both Goodman and Oldendorf emphasized the importance of improving public safety to retain tax revenue in San Bernardino. They explained that residents often leave the city to shop or dine elsewhere due to concerns about safety, which diverts tax dollars to neighboring communities. "As long as people don’t feel safe here, we won’t have the revenues to hire more officers or improve infrastructure," Goodman added, stressing the connection between safety, public perception, and city growth.
ialto Middle School, Home of the Tigers, roared into its centennial year with a grand celebration on October 10 to commemorate a century of academic excellence, community spirit, and transformation. Alumni, staff, parents and students, from past and present, gathered at the school to honor the award-winning institution’s rich history, from its humble beginnings in 1924 to its current role as a beacon of education in the Rialto Unified School District.
The festivities featured performances by student groups, including the school band and cheer team, a historical picture gallery, and a time capsule ceremony. Student leaders guided visitors through the gallery, sharing stories from the school’s long and distinguished past.
“Honestly, the history of this school makes me feel that this place is sacred in a way because it’s been here for so long, from its start as Rialto Junior High School in 1924 to today,” said RMS student April Velador, who proudly presented information from the earliest days of the school with pictures displayed on a poster. “That long history provides us current students with an incredible opportunity. I get to learn a lot from being here and share that history during this celebration.”
RMS Principal Ricardo Garcia, welcomed attendees and highlighted key moments in the school's remarkable journey from its modest start to 2024.
“It is an honor to be part of an institution that has been educating the Rialto youth for 100 years,” Garcia said. “We are proud to continue the legacy set by the visionaries of this community.”
Past RMS teachers, such 91year-old Mrs. Alice Wuerch, attended the ceremonious occasion with her daughter. “I was a PE teacher here,” she smiled. “I may be using a walker but I’m still fast and active.”
The event was well-attended, and among the notable attendees were RMS past principals Anna Rodriguez, Gail Mathews, Lupe Andrade, Mark Bline, Arnie Ayala, Dr. Rhea McIver Gibbs (now RUSD Lead Strategic Agent), and Dr. Robin McMillon (RUSD Lead Agent of Student Services) who all returned to celebrate the school’s legacy. The site administrators joined the RMS Principal for a keepsake picture to be stored at the school.
“It’s always wonderful to come back to my roots, and Ri-
alto Middle School,” gleamed Rodriguez, whose mother and aunts attended Rialto Middle School, when it was called “junior high school” in the early 1900s. “I cherished the time I spent here with students and parents.”
Originally established as Rialto Junior High School, the institution opened with just 87 students and three teachers under the leadership of Principal W. R. Fouts. Over the years, the school has grown in size and scope, adapting to the needs of Rialto’s expanding community.
RUSD Board of Education members President Joseph Marintez, Clerk Evelyn Dominguez, and Member Dr. Stephanie Lewis were also in attendance with the RUSD Acting Superintendent Dr. Edward D’Souza. Each made short, inspiring speeches, thanking the crowd for attending and enjoying the look back at history. They were joined by San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., City of Rialto Council Member Rafael Trujillo, and Kurt Lewis from Congressman Pete Aguilar’s office, who presented certificates in honor of the school’s milestone anniversary. Additionally, 39th District Congressman Mark Takano, a former teacher at RMS.
Inspiring speeches from current teachers, including Lorraine Rehm, Gia De Leon, and Jennifer Parks, brought attention to the school’s tight-knit community atmosphere. Rehm, who has been with the District for 32 years and joined Rialto Middle School in 1998 when it expanded to include sixth graders, reflected on her journey.
“Making the move to Rialto Middle School in the 90s, I’ve never looked back,” Rehm said. “Even though I started my career thinking I would be an elementary school teacher for 40 years, I’m glad I came to Rialto Middle School. We have phenomenal students, parents, teachers, and administrators who strive every day, with determination, for excellence and integrity to make sure our students have an outstanding learning environment.”
Ofelia Fitzpatrick, who was the first female student-athlete at RMS, attending school in the late 1970s, also spoke. Fitzpatrick is now a Program Specialist for with the RUSD’s Expanded Learning Programs service area.
Read the full story at IECN.com.
Prop 36 (cont.)
Meeting the Demand: The Essential Role of Current
and Future Health Professionals
By Anne Yau Senior Vice President, Social Responsibility, UnitedHealth Group and President, United Health Foundation
Experience shows that when patients receive care from health providers who speak their language or understand their cultural needs, they are more responsive and engaged. This can lead to better health outcomes, as patients feel safe and trust their health care providers.
A young man, deeply connected to his Native American heritage from a young age, spent part of his childhood on a reservation. There, he accessed medical care through the Indian Health Service and witnessed the positive impact of culturally relevant care firsthand. After completing his undergraduate degree, he became an orthopedic scribe at a clinic near a Navajo reservation and is now pursuing a medical degree.
A young woman, inspired by her mother’s journey from Haiti to America in 1992 and
her dedication to caring for her grandfather with prostate cancer, decided to pursue a career in health care. Now studying to become a registered nurse, she is determined to advance her career by focusing on maternal and infant health, areas where significant health disparities persist.
Both are advancing their clinical careers with support from the United Health Foundation’s Diversity in Health Care Scholarship program. Motivated by the desire to serve patients with similar backgrounds, they are committed to supporting their communities by providing culturally responsive care.
Since the program launched in 2022, the United Health Foundation has provided scholarships to nearly 2,000 health professionals and students from diverse backgrounds. This initiative is part of their commitment to making the health care system work better for everyone. Through the Diversity in Health Care Scholarship program, the United Health Foundation aims to support 10,000 current and future clinicians by 2033.
The scholarship is available to historically underrepresented health professionals, helping them advance their clinical degrees or credentials. Scholars come from various clinical fields, including nursing, mental health, physical therapy, dentistry, pharmacy, and medicine.
The United Health Foundation’s Diversity in Health Care Scholarship program offers scholarships to current and aspiring health professionals from historically underrepresented backgrounds who aim to make a difference in health care. Committed to expanding a diverse health care workforce, the United Health Foundation provides scholarships to support the professionals.
If you or someone you know is a health care professional looking to further advance their clinical degree or credentials, encourage them to apply for a $3,200 scholarship by visiting https://scholarshipamerica.org/unitedhealt hfoundation/
Senior Resource Fair Will Provide Valuable Information for Adults
Community News
Discover valuable services that can improve your life at the Flores Senior Center’s Resource Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14.
This free event will showcase community services, health providers, and other organizations that enhance the lives of seniors. Representatives will be on hand to provide information and answer questions about their services. Reservations are not required.
Information will also be available on programs and services available at the Flores Senior Center and the Joslyn Senior Center.
Attendees may also join in Family Service Association’s hot lunch program from 11:30
a.m.-12:30 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $3 for those 60 and older.
The Flores Senior Center is located at 111 W. Lugonia Ave.
For a complete list of current offerings at both senior centers, visit cityofredlands.org/seniors. More information on the Resource Fair is available by calling 909-798-7579.
City of Redlands press releases and other information are available on the City’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/cityofredlands or on the City’s website at www.cityofredlands.org/.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Have you Scheduled your Mammogram?
By Melissa Torrey, MD, Director of the Breast Cancer Program at Redlands Community Hospital Center for Cancer Care
Even though Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed in October, it is important that women be mindful of their health all year-round. It is important to take preventive steps, schedule an annual mammogram on time, perform monthly selfbreast examinations, exercise regularly and practice a healthy lifestyle that will decrease breast cancer health risks.
When it comes to diet, I regularly tell my patients that a healthy diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, plus exercising about 150 minutes per week. I also recommend adding a Vitamin D3 supplement which improves bone health, reduces inflammation and improves cell function to reduce cancer risks. Additionally, I advise my patients to stay away from highly processed foods, alcohol and excessive sugar. Following this nutritional advice will reduce cancer risks and decrease your chance of developing cardiovascular disease, which according to the American Heart Association is the number one killer in the United States.
An annual mammogram is important for the early detection of breast cancer. Even when the most aggressive breast cancers are identified early, it can be managed with surgery and possibly radiation therapy alone, reducing the need for chemotherapy.
Even though mammograms are extremely important for early detection, I also advise my patients
that self-breast examinations should be performed monthly and become a regular part of their health regimen. The National Breast Cancer Foundation shares how to properly conduct a selfbreast exam.
If your family has a history of multiple women in the family having breast cancer at an early age, then genetic testing is recommended. Gene mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, which are identified as high-risk factors, if found, would be consistent with a very high risk for developing breast cancer. If a patient is found to carry one of the BRCA mutations, their surveillance and risk reducing strategies will differ from patients without those mutations. Those who carry one of the BRCA mutations will require close follow up by a specialist who is trained in treating high risk breast cancers.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to remind women to be mindful of their breast health.
As an oncologist, I know that regular screenings can lead to early detection, less aggressive treatment options, improved overall health outcomes and reduce breast cancer deaths.
To schedule a mammogram, call the Nancy Varner Center for Women’s Health at Redlands Community Hospital—909.793.4399.
Dr. Melissa Torrey is an oncologist and hematologist who specializes in cancer care with a sub-specialty expertise in breast cancers at the Redlands Community Hospital Center for Cancer Care.
Prepare for Flu Season: Expert Insights from Dignity Health Physicians
By Dignity Health
As we approach the upcoming flu season, Dignity Health is dedicated to keeping our communities informed and healthy. Our team of physicians is urging everyone to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones against influenza.
Flu season typically peaks between December and February, and vaccination is the best defense.
Dr Charlie Abraham, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health St Bernardine Medical Center emphasizes the importance of early vaccination.
“Getting your flu shot is crucial this year,” shares Dr. Abraham. “The flu is a serious illness, especially for the elderly and those who are immunocompromised, like cancer, diabetes or transplant patients. It can lead to severe complications and even death, with up to 50,000 fatalities annually.”
In addition to vaccination, our experts recommend the following preventive measures:
● Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently.
●Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
●Stay home if you’re feeling unwell to prevent spreading illness.
●Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
Flu season typically occurs between October and May, with activity peaking between December and February.
The flu vaccine plays a pivotal role in preventing significant flu-related illnesses, including hospitalization and death.
“The vaccine is your best shot at reducing your risk of ending up in the hospital or worse,” Dr. Abraham adds, Together, we can work to reduce the impact of flu season in our community.
San Bernardino Valley College Receives Approval for First-Ever Bachelor’s Degree in Water Resources Management
Community News
San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) is proud to announce the official approval of its new bachelor’s degree in water resources management, a landmark achievement for the college and the community. The California Community Colleges (CCC) Board of Governors granted the approval during their historic, first-ever meeting at SBVC on September 23, marking a significant milestone for the institution and its students.
“We are thrilled to receive approval for this groundbreaking program,” said SBVC President Dr. Gilbert Contreras. “This degree will not only equip our students with the specialized knowledge and skills required in the water resources management field, but it will also position SBVC as a leader in addressing critical workforce needs in our region. By offering this degree, we are opening doors to high-wage, in-demand careers that will benefit both our students and our community.”
The bachelor’s degree in water resources management
is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the vital and evolving field of water management. Focusing on sustainable practices and advanced technologies, the program will address the growing demand for skilled professionals who can tackle complex challenges related to water supply, quality, and infrastructure.
“This program is a testament to SBVC’s commitment to educational excellence and community impact,” said Melita Caldwell-Betties, chair of the water supply technology program at SBVC. “Water is one of our most precious resources, and this degree will give students the expertise needed to make a difference. We are excited to launch this program and support our students in becoming future leaders in this critical field.”
The program's approval comes at a crucial time for the water industry, which faces significant challenges due to an aging workforce and a looming wave of retirements.
According to a recent SBVC regional labor market analysis, over 30% of water industry employees in the
Inland Empire are expected to retire within the next 10 years. The new bachelor’s degree program will play a pivotal role in addressing the regional skills gap and providing trained professionals to fill these positions. The Inland Empire is one of the top regions in the nation for water-related careers, offering high salaries and strong demand for qualified candidates.
Graduates of the program will be prepared for a variety of high-demand roles, including:
Leadership positions in water supply utilities
▪ Water and wastewater treatment plant management
▪ Regulatory agency positions focused on water
▪ quality and environmental protection
Groundwater and conservation district leadership
▪ Watershed and river basin authority management ▪
SBVC is hoping to begin enrolling students in this innovative new degree program by Fall 2026.
Board of Governors meeting at San Bernardino Valley College on September 23, 2024.
Fontana Unified Expands Graduation Requirements with Yearlong Ethnic Studies Course, Beginning with Class of 2029
Community News
In an effort to promote cultural awareness and understanding, Fontana Unified School District’s Board of Education, during its Oct. 2 meeting, unanimously approved making a standalone, yearlong ethnic studies course a graduation requirement for high school students beginning with the Class of 2028-29.
In 2021, California became the first state to require all students to pass a semester-long ethnic studies course to earn a high school diploma starting with the Class of 2029-30. Fontana Unified went above and beyond the state’s directive to make its ethnic studies requirement a standalone, yearlong course starting with next year’s freshmen class.
“The curriculum of ethnic studies will highlight marginalized voices and perspectives, giving students the opportunity to learn about and advocate for underrepresented communities,” Board Member Dr. Jennifer Quezada said before the vote. “I also believe ethnic studies and having it yearlong will be able to create students who are informed, empathetic, and engaged citizens who are better prepared to navigate and contribute to a diverse society.”
The California School Boards Association has cited research showing that ethnic studies improves student outcomes, critical thinking, self-esteem, and student engagement and can also reduce dropout rates and improve student achievement.
Fontana Unified students have had access to an A-Gapproved ethnic studies course since 2019-20 after the Board approved a 2018 resolution to create a course and establish an Ethnic Studies Committee in the District.
In the adopted revision, the FUSD Board made both ethnic studies and a semester-long personal finance course graduation requirements, with the finance course requirement starting with the Class of 2030-31. It was passed with a 6-0 vote that included Student Board Member Adriana-Rene Humber.
“I think that learning about our history and the culture of other students will help us be more unified, understand each other better, and connect better as students,” Humber said before the vote. “I think when we do that, we are going to be more unified as a community and as a school District.”
Before the vote, several community members, including Fontana Teachers Association President Mark
Schulte, expressed support for making ethnic studies a graduation requirement in the District.
It continues a series of actions taken by Fontana Unified’s Board in its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
On Sept. 4, the Board unanimously voted to rename Randall Pepper Elementary School to O’Day Short Elementary. Southridge Tech Middle School seventh grader Cyrus Moss petitioned the Board to take action to honor the O’Day Short Family, which is remembered for breaking Fontana’s color barrier in 1945.
“We strive to prepare our students for a global society here in Fontana Unified, and requiring a yearlong ethnic studies course for graduation fits right into that goal perfectly,” Superintendent Miki R. Inbody said. “This will provide our students with the chance to explore diverse histories of both our country and our community of Fontana as they develop empathy and draw inspiration to be the best versions of themselves along the way.”
San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) faculty and administrators meet with California Community Colleges (CCC) and San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD) leadership during the historic CCC
City of San Bernardino Begins Renovation of Guadalupe Field at Sal Saavedra Park
Community News
On Monday, October 7, leaders of San Bernardino Youth Baseball (SBYB) visited Guadalupe Field at Sal Saavedra Park on the City’s westside to see the demolition underway as part of a $1.8 million renovation of the baseball field.
SBYB League President Brandon Ponce and Vice President Albert Castillo were joined by City of San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran, Council members Fred Shorett, Damon Alexander, and San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., walking the semi-demolished field and imagining what the field will look like in just a few months.
"I am thrilled to witness the transformation of Guadalupe Field and Sal Saavedra Park,” said San
Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran. “This project is about more than just infrastructure; it’s about building a stronger community.”
The project at the 2.25-acre park will replace the baseball field, renovate the existing snack bar and press box, upgrade the lighting, replace fencing, install new bleachers, build a new scoreboard, and install new park amenities.
“Growing up and playing here, I know how much this field means to this neighborhood. I want to recognize the efforts of Brandon Ponce, and the San Bernardino Pony League, their advocacy helped make this vision a reality. We are grateful to the City of San Bernardino, Mayor, City Council, and all the city staff who made this project happen." said County Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., who secured $995,000 in funds for the project.
Funding for the improvements came from both the San Bernardino City Council and County Board of Supervisors using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
By improving our parks, we create spaces for our children to play, learn, and grow,” added Tran. “Thank you to Supervisor Baca and the San Bernardino Youth Baseball organization for their continued support of our youth and this important project."
Construction is expected to be completed in late spring/early summer of 2025.
San Bernardino Youth Baseball (SBYB) and is affiliated with PONY baseball. It has been in existence since 1962 and holds games at Guadalupe Field.
PHOTO CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO
SBYB leadership, San Bernardino City Council, and Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. breaking ground.
PHOTO CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO
Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. discussing the field’s forthcoming improvements.
UCLA Law Receives a $2.2 Million Gift from SMBMI to Sustain Its Clinical Impact in Native Nations
Community News
Bolstering UCLA School of Law’s efforts to improve the lives of Native people throughout California and the country, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has awarded a $2.2 million grant to further support the ongoing work of the law school’s Tribal Legal Development Clinic.
The gift funds the full-time and year-round work of the clinic, including the clinic director, clinic administrator, summer law clerks and various program expenses, for five years. In doing so, it fuels UCLA Law’s work in producing new practitioners and scholars who work in Indian law or whose work intersects with issues involving tribal sovereignty. Added financial backing will allow UCLA Law to grow the clinic’s network of clients, create more public-facing research and publications that empower tribal communities, and offer training and career guidance to students who are pursuing careers in Indian law.
“Our Tribe is honored to continue our longstanding partnership with the UCLA School of Law in advancing tribal sovereignty for all Native American communities,” said Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. “The students of the Tribal Legal Development Clinic have been, and will remain, vital advocates for the rights and sovereignty of tribes and Native communities.”
Mica Llerandi has served as the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Tribal Legal Development Clinic Director since 2023. Under her leadership, the clinic fosters the next generation of tribal lawyers by connecting students directly with tribal leaders, officers, and attorneys, to support tribal sovereignty through the provision of legal development services to Indian tribes. Often, students travel to Indian country to meet with tribal clients to collaborate, deliver work products to governing bodies, and participate in relevant meetings and hearings.
Clinic projects are tribal sovereignty affirming and have included drafting statutes and other governing documents, building tribal court infrastructure, and devel-
oping resources for tribal nations. For example, students in the clinic collaborated with the Yurok Tribe to develop the forward-looking “Tribal Broadband” publication, which enables tribes to explore the steps that they would need to take in deploying broadband service within their disproportionately under-connected communities.
“For decades, UCLA Law has been a proud leader in Indian law, scholarship, and advocacy, including our onthe-ground initiatives that foster legal assistance and development programs across Indian country,” says Michael Waterstone, dean of UCLA Law. “At each step of the way, we have engaged in this important work alongside partners who share our commitment, and few are more instrumental than the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. We are hugely grateful for this grant and their recognition of the impact that our students and scholars make, and will continue to make, every day, for Native people.”
The grant is the latest generous contribution that the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has made to UCLA Law to expand the law school’s reach and success in producing positive change. Following a 2004 grant of $4 million, a gift of more than $1.3 million in 2019 created and funded the position of clinic director, thereby increasing support for the clinic’s robust undertakings.
“The enormous generosity of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has enabled UCLA Law to become one of the nation’s leading legal institutions in training future lawyers,” says Professor Angela R. Riley, who holds the Carole Goldberg Endowed Chair in Native American Law, serves as special advisor to UCLA’s chancellor on Native American and Indigenous affairs, and directs the law school’s Native Nations Law and Policy Center. “Thanks to this essential partnership, our students will have even more opportunities to work diligently on behalf of Indian Country to advance tribal sovereignty and secure a promising future for Indigenous rights.”
Inland Empire Advocates Push Senate to Pass ABX 2-1: Targeting Oil Company Price Gouging for Consumer Protection
By Manny Sandoval
Advocates in the Inland Empire and across California are urging the Senate to pass ABX 2-1, a landmark bill aimed at ensuring economic fairness, climate justice, and consumer protection by stabilizing gas prices and holding oil companies accountable.
The California Assembly's recent passage of ABX 21 marks a critical step toward protecting consumers from the volatility of gas prices. The bill now awaits Senate approval and is seen as a key measure in providing relief to Californians, particularly those in lower-income communities, who are disproportionately affected by fuel costs. If signed into law, the bill would create a secure oil reserve to safeguard against future price spikes driven by supply chain disruptions or market manipulation.
ABX 2-1 also seeks to impose stricter oversight on oil
Community News
Bcompanies, many of which have seen record profits while Californians continue to struggle at the pump. A significant portion of the population, particularly in communities of color, spends a larger share of their income on fuel. According to recent studies, 25% of Latino adults and 23% of Black adults in California have reported severe financial hardship due to gas prices.
"This bill incentivizes fuel refineries to plan proactively, saving Californians — consumers — billions at the pump," said Assemblymember Gregg Hart, who authored the bill. "We must act now to provide relief to those who rely on gasoline to get to work, take their children to school, and care for their families."
The bill has garnered widespread support from climate justice advocates who view it as a crucial step toward a more sustainable and equitable future. These advocates argue that unchecked profiteering by oil companies not only burdens consumers but also hinders California's
transition to clean energy.
With the bill’s passage in the Assembly, attention now turns to the California Senate, where supporters hope for swift action. Consumer protection groups, environmental organizations, and local advocates are rallying for its approval, highlighting the urgent need for economic and environmental justice.
"This is a pivotal victory for consumers, challenging the long-standing tactics of oil refiners to inflate gas prices and profits," said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog. "ABX 2-1 sets a powerful precedent for tackling price gouging at the pump."
Advocates across the Inland Empire continue to emphasize the critical nature of this legislation, framing it as a vital response to both economic inequities and the state’s ambitious climate goals.
San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Supports Prop 36
oard of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe announced that the board on Tuesday, Oct. 8, unanimously voted to support a resolution in favor of Proposition 36, the Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act.
Prop. 36, which will appear on November’s general election ballot, aims to reclassify some misdemeanor theft and drug crimes as felonies, as well as create a new category of crime – a “treatment-mandated felony.” Under this category, individuals who do not contest the charges could complete drug treatment instead of serving time in prison or jail. This initiative strengthens the criminal justice system by mandating treatment or state prison time for individuals involved in repeat smashand-grab thefts or the trafficking of fentanyl.
In addition to addressing rising theft and drug-related crimes, Proposition 36 also tackles the homelessness
crisis by addressing the comorbidity of drug dependence and mental health issues, which are contributing factors in the proliferation of public encampments and declining human conditions across the state.
Since the passage of Proposition 47, legal loopholes have allowed criminals to evade accountability for serious crimes, including fentanyl trafficking and serial retail theft. Proposition 36 would close these loopholes by adding fentanyl to the list of drugs that, when possessed alongside a loaded firearm, warrant a felony charge.
Furthermore, the measure seeks to increase penalties for drug-related crimes by enhancing sentence lengths and allowing felony charges for offenses involving dangerous substances such as fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine.
“This measure makes important changes in the way we prosecute specific crimes, holding offenders accountable and making our communities safer. At the same time, it ensures a balanced approach by providing
an opportunity for those who require addiction treatment to get the help they need,” Rowe said.
Sheriff Shannon Dicus added, “I fully support Proposition 36, which brings much-needed reforms to our criminal justice system. Prop. 36 puts consequences back into the system for suspects involved in the possession and use of hard narcotics and shoplifting. Suspects can also choose treatment and rehabilitation over incarceration for non-violent offenders. By helping individuals break the cycle of addiction, we can reduce recidivism and enhance public safety. I am proud of our Board of Supervisors for supporting the resolution in favor of Prop. 36, showing their commitment to making our communities safer, and providing second chances for those who need it. This initiative ensures that our resources are directed toward serious offenders while giving those struggling with substance abuse the opportunity for meaningful recovery.”
PHOTO SMBMI
Angela Riley (UCLA) at the podium.
PHOTO SMBMI
Left to right: Patricia Biggi (UCLA), Angela Riley (UCLA), Michael Waterstone (Dean of UCLA School of Law), Mica R. Llerandi (UCLA), Monique Osorio (SMBMI).
