When I was first elected, I promised you integrity, earnest engagement, and advocacy on your behalf. As I sought your support, I stated:
"City employees should be assertive and inclined to help all our residents, visitors, and business owners. In order to be effective, we must make ourselves approachable and available at any time. Community issues and concerns should be our top priority."
Recently, I have received numerous complaints from you regarding two specific matters that directly affect our community.
1. Senior Discount Rate for Disposal Services
On July 16, 2024, I—along with Councilmembers Toro and Chastain (forming the majority)—approved an extension of our disposal services contract with CR&R, despite strong opposition from some mem-
bers. As part of this agreement, we demanded the inclusion of a reduced senior rate and the addition of a Community Services Officer (CSO) to assist with resident and contractor concerns regarding waste disposal.
CR&R readily agreed to these terms without hesitation. However, those who opposed the agreement contacted the press and launched personal attacks against me and my family—simply for fighting for seniors. While this was deeply upsetting, I stood firm in my advocacy for Colton’s seniors, knowing that their needs were worth enduring these unfounded attacks.
Despite this, the City Council majority instructed the City Manager to formalize and implement these directives immediately. I assumed this had been done. However, after hearing from many of you, I learned that nothing has been implemented and that you are facing continuous delays and
By Manny Sandoval
The Inland Empire solidified its position as a national leader in cybersecurity education on March 8, 2025, with the return of the Mayor’s Cyber Cup—an event designed to prepare students for one of the fastest-growing and most critical industries in the world. Hosted by the Inland Economic Growth and Opportunity Collaborative (IEGO), the competition brought together middle school, high school, and community college students across Riverside and San Bernardino counties to test their cyberse-
curity skills in real-world scenarios.
More than just a competition, the Mayor’s Cyber Cup is a cornerstone in the Inland Empire’s efforts to cultivate a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce—one that is increasingly essential as digital threats target vital infrastructure, including water systems, utilities, hospitals, and schools.
“Cybersecurity is a sector that is security-critical,” said Matthew Mena, Executive Director of IEGO. “It’s not just about government agencies; it’s about web platforms, utilities, hospitals, and any field
handling confidential information. The future of warfare is cyber, and ensuring that our region has a workforce capable of protecting these systems is essential.”
A Nationally Recognized Cybersecurity Training Hub
The event spotlighted the Inland Empire’s growing reputation as a cybersecurity education powerhouse. According to Mena, data from California Jobs First reveals that the region produces more cybersecurity-trained students than anywhere else in the state. Central to this suc-
Ramos Names Youth Advocate Eunice Abel as Woman of the Year for Assembly District
PHOTO COURTESY OF ECHEVARRIA Councilman John Echevarria of Colton District 4 advocates for senior discounts, lower utility rates, and government transparency.
PHOTO ARMANDO CARMONA
Coach Ryan Ryker and his students from Richardson PREP HI celebrate their participation in the 2025 Inland Empire Mayor’s Cyber Cup.
PHOTO ARMANDO CARMONA Students collaborate on cybersecurity challenges during the 2025 Inland Empire Mayor’s Cyber Cup, gaining hands-on experience in one of the fastest-growing career fields.
Open Letter (cont.)
- unhelpful responses when inquiring about the discount.
I decided to go through the same inquiry process as you and, unfortunately, experienced the same frustrating runaround. For that, I sincerely apologize.
When I contacted City Staff, I was told CR&R was responsible for the delay and was encouraged to contact them directly. When I contacted CR&R, they stated the City was the one stalling the process. In short, I found myself in an endless and nonsensical cycle of blame-shifting.
To those asking what authority the City Manager has, let me be clear:
The City Manager is appointed by the City Council and is responsible for implementing and maintaining the Council’s directives. He does not have the authority to ignore directives from the Council. The City Manager serves at the pleasure of the Council and is obligated by ordinance to enforce Council decisions.
As stated on the City’s website:
“The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to implement and maintain the City Council's goals and objectives, policies, and priorities.” (Emphasis added)
Additionally, City Ordinance 2.16.020 clearly states:
"The City Manager holds office at the pleasure of the City Council and may be removed by majority vote at any time and in any manner."
In the coming days, with your support, I will be demanding truthful answers. If the City
Cybersecurity (cont.)
Manager chooses to ignore or refuses to implement clear directives from the Council, then the Council must consider alternative actions.
2. Immediate Sunset of the Temporary Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) Tax
Many residents and businesses have raised concerns about additional power rate charges, which can increase bills by up to onethird. Additionally, there is a continued effort to deny seniors reduced electric rates, while businesses continue to be burdened with extra fees that have nothing to do with electricity usage, delivery, or consumption.
At the February 24, 2025, Special Council Meeting, I pushed to immediately terminate the Temporary Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) tax—set to remain in place until at least October 2025. My motion received no support from the rest of the Council.
During the meeting, I found City Staff to be unprepared, nontransparent, and evasive in their responses. After pressing for clear answers, staff abruptly changed their stance, claiming:
"The PCA is not within Council purview…"
Then, the City Manager incorrectly stated:
"If the Council were to direct me to do that, then I have to decide whether I can do that…"
Let me be very clear: The City Manager does not have the authority to ignore Council directives. If Council has no power over this decision, then why was a Special Council Meeting held in the first place? Quite honestly, I left that meeting even more confused than when I arrived.
It appears that the Mayor and
- cess is California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), home to one of just 12 federally funded Centers for Cyber and AI in the nation.
“CSUSB’s cybersecurity program has been in place since 2008, yet the rest of the country and even the state don’t fully realize the depth of expertise we have here,” Mena noted. “The Mayor’s Cyber Cup helps showcase the Inland Empire as a leader in the field.”
One of the event’s most significant takeaways was the clear education-to-career pipeline that is being built in the region. The Moreno Valley Unified School District has structured pathways from K-12 to CSUSB, ensuring students receive cybersecurity training early on, positioning them for high-demand jobs after graduation.
With nearly 39,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions in California, Mena emphasized that events like the Mayor’s Cyber Cup are essential to addressing the talent gap while giving students real-world exposure to a high-demand industry.
Expanding Opportunity and Bridging the Digital Divide Beyond competition, the Mayor’s Cyber Cup plays a crucial role in making cybersecurity education accessible, particularly for students from
City Council majority chose to maintain these burdensome rate increases, supposedly to fund a study conducted by "experts"—a study that I do not believe is necessary.
I Cannot and Will Not Support This.
I believe in supporting our residents, lowering rates for seniors, and helping our struggling businesses. City budget shortfalls should not be addressed through hidden fees and deceptive rate hikes.
I will not participate in baitand-switch politics. I expect competence, honesty, and full transparency from Colton’s City Staff.
If we need to pay a little extra for necessary services, then let’s be honest with residents and tell them the truth. Secretly using excess charges to fund studies and other expenses is simply dishonest.
A Call for Transparency and Responsible Spending I personally support hiring more police officers—our current staffing level of one officer per 1,000 residents is not sufficient. I am willing to support a slight increase in costs if it truly funds public safety.
However, I will not support funds being misallocated in backroom deals to fund unnecessary studies, executive salaries, or other unrelated expenses. Colton residents and businesses are willing to pay for essential services, but we expect our city leaders and staff to demonstrate integrity, honesty, and transparency.
Sincerely, Councilman John Echevarria Colton District 4
underserved communities.
“This program is free, and it gives students— especially those who may not have envisioned themselves in this field—a way to see cybersecurity as a real career option,” Mena explained. “For many families, just getting by is the focus. We want to show them that cybersecurity offers stable, long-term careers with significant earning potential.”
IEGO’s broader mission is economic development, leveraging the Inland Empire’s strengths— including its cybersecurity workforce—to attract industry investment.
“We’re working to ensure companies recognize this region as a prime destination for cybersecurity talent,” Mena said. “We have the workforce, the training, and the infrastructure to support a thriving cybersecurity sector. This is about more than solving today’s challenges—it’s about preparing for the security needs of tomorrow.”
As cyber threats become an increasing concern across industries, the Mayor’s Cyber Cup continues to serve as a crucial platform for fostering the next generation of digital defenders, ensuring the Inland Empire remains at the forefront of this high-stakes industry.
By Christina Perris, contributing writer
Braving a day of heavy showers and cold weather, over 40 people, friends and family, gathered at Pizzadilly Restaurant to celebrate Dr.G’s 69th birthday. The cheerful celebration started promptly at 6:00pm and was adorned with colorful table decorations, banners, streamers and lots of friendly faces.
For many DrG supporters, this type of gathering is fairly common and somewhat expected. DrG enjoys meeting with friends, and sharing fun times, great food and positive fellowship. As in typical fashion, DrG usually dresses up in one of his many costumes and loves taking pictures in order to create a birthday photo diary with the people who attend.
This particular gathering of Dr.G supporters was not only plenty of fun but served as a launching pad for DrGs formal announcement of his intent to run for City Council in November 2026. “Basically, most people knew DrG was going to run again, but this event made it official,” said Delma Ledesma, Woman’s Club President long time DrG supporter. “I’ve known him (DrG) for a long time,” she continued, and added, “I can always count on him to get things done and to help whenever possible.”
The evening started with an opening prayer followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by young Brandon Morales who has been a fan of DrG his entire life. DrG then played the national anthem on his trumpet, and then with everyone still standing, the entire group then sang a robust version of “Happy Birthday” before settling-in for a treat of delicious pizza. The food, pizza and salad, was prepared especially for the occasion by Shirwin and Denise, the new owners of Pizzadilly Restaurant.
“We sure had a great time,” explained June Hughes, who
along with some helpers decorated the tables with cheerful table coverings and colorful adornments.
All the colors, orange and blue, DrGs favorite, set the tone for an enjoyable evening. In addition, June was one of four people who grabbed everyone’s attention with their own “creative” rendition of telling a GStory; essentially a fun tale of a common experience involving DrG and his community service. The stories were told by June, Rachel Ngo, Lisa Roo, and Delma Ledesma. “These stories are very positive, somewhat animated and genuinely heart-warming,” commented Norma Gallardo who added, “DrG sure has a lot of good friends.”
The purpose of this gathering is not just to celebrate Dr.G’s birthday, but planned in order to enjoy the company of good friends, good food, and good vibes. “Everything is positive,” said Josie Garcia, who brought her son Ayden to the celebration. There is generally no agenda, and no official business. However, with a room full of cheering supporters, this turned out to be a good opportunity to launch DrGs candidacy for Colton City Council. “We all knew this announcement was coming,” said Linda and Mel Hanson, who are not only good friends, but often join DrG for many of his clean-up projects.
For those who know Dr.G, which are many in the community, know that he maintains close contact with the residents. He is available, is always willing to help as much as possible, and…willing to “roll up his sleeves.”
Congratulations to Dr.G on his 69th birthday which is officially March 4. May he be blessed with many more years to come, and may his service to the community continue to be a blessing to all those with whom he comes into contact.
Public Safety
6 Arrested, 88 Cited at San Bernardino DUI Checkpoint
By Rialto PD
Six drivers were arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and 88 citations were issued during a DUI and license checkpoint conducted by the San Bernardino Police Department on Feb. 28.
The checkpoint, held in the 1300 block of North Waterman
Avenue from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., resulted in 39 citations for unlicensed or suspended/revoked licenses and 49 citations for other vehicle code violations, authorities said.
During the operation, officers screened 604 vehicles, impounded 17, and took multiple suspected impaired drivers off the road.
DUI checkpoints are placed in locations with a history of impaired driving-related collisions, with the goal of enhancing public safety, police said.
The operation was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
3 Arrested for DUI, 51 Cited in San Bernardino Patrols
By San Bernardino PD
San Bernardino Police Department arrested three drivers on suspicion of DUI and cited 51 others during DUI enforcement patrols on March 1, authorities said.
Officers also arrested 13 drivers for operating a vehicle with a suspended or no license and took six others into custody for
additional crimes.
“We are committed to taking impaired drivers off the road,” said Sgt. Siems. “Driving under the influence is not only dangerous but also has major consequences.”
First-time DUI offenders face up to $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended license, police said.
San Bernardino police will continue DUI enforcement patrols throughout the year as part of an effort to enhance roadway safety.
The operation was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Ramos Measures Would Add New Protections for Domestic Violence Victims From Assailants and Increase Public Safety on Tribal Lands
By San Bernardino PD
Ameasure to grant state peace officer status to tribal law enforcement who meet the same California standards as other officers and another to grant victims of domestic violence or sexual assault temporary criminal protective orders against their convicted assailants upon the perpetrator’s release from state prison were approved Tuesday unanimously by the Assembly Public Safety Committee. Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) introduced the two bills.
AB 31 Peace Officer Status on Tribal Lands
“AB 31, the tribal peace officer proposal, and AB 285, the criminal protective order measure, both create new preventive safeguards again the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis in our Native American communities,” Ramos stated. “Due to a decades-old federal law, tribal lands were left without adequate law enforcement tools such as officers without full authority to pursue criminal investigations on their reservations. AB 31 seeks to remedy that public safety omission to underserved tribal lands.”
Ramos’s bill would authorize the state Department of Justice (DOJ) to establish a Tribal Police Pilot Program in coordination with the California’s California Commission on Peace Officer Standards (POST). The three-year program would grant tribal police from three state tribes peace officer status if they meet the same California requirements as other peace officers. DOJ and POST would provide ongoing monitoring, evaluation and support for the program and have
the authority to suspend or terminate participation of a qualified entity for gross misconduct or for willful or persistent failure to comply with requirements of the pilot program.
The bill would also allow participating tribes to enter into agreements to share liability and collaborate on MMIP cases. AB 31 is sponsored by the Yurok Tribe, located in Humboldt County. Northern California is considered particularly vulnerable to the MMIP crisis.
Yurok Chairman Joe James said, “This bill and pilot program will combat the crisis of MMIP by improving public safety in tribal communities and adjacent lands.” Chairman James continued, “We sincerely thank Assemblymember Ramos for leading this effort to enhance community safety and wellbeing for the long term.”
AB 285 Criminal Protective Order Protection for Domestic Violence Victims
AB 285 would require that a temporary 180-day criminal protective order (CPO) be issued when a defendant convicted of domestic violence or sex offenses is released from state prison to protect the victim(s) they were convicted of harming.
Protective orders are issued by a judge to protect witnesses or crime victims and routinely issued in domestic violence cases. Such orders may be valid for up to 10 years. However, the CPO may expire before the perpetrator is released from prison, leaving the victim at risk. AB 285 would allow a 180-day CPO to be in effect in those cases where a void would exist between expiration of an existing CPO and the assailant’s release from prison. Closing this protective
gap would also allow victims to take additional legal steps to prevent new violence and assaults.
Ramos declared, “AB 285 specifically gives victims of domestic violence and sexual assault time to create protective, more permanent guardrails when their assailant is released from state prison and prevent revictimization. This also provides an additional weapon in confronting MMIP cases which disproportionately affect Native American people, especially women and girls.”
San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson, whose office is co-sponsoring AB 285 stated, “The passing of AB 285 by the Assembly Public Safety Committee reinforces our belief in the continued safety and peace of mind for victims of domestic violence or sexual assault crimes. We thank Assemblymember James Ramos for his partnership with our office and introducing this commonsense bill and look forward to seeing it become law.” Co-sponsoring the bill is the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office.
A partial list of supporters includes California District Attorneys Association, Arcadia Police Officers’ Association, Brea Police Association, Burbank Police Officers’ Association, California Association of School Police Chiefs, California Coalition of School Safety Professionals, California Narcotic Officers’ Association, Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians, California Reserve Peace Officers Association, Fullerton Police Officers’ Association, Indigenous Justice, Tule River Tribe, Riverside Sheriffs’ Association, Riverside Sheriffs’ Association and Santa Ana Police Officers Association.
Op-Ed
Three Strategies to Help Support Your Health as We “Spring” Forward
By Dr. Archana Dubey, Chief Medical Officer, UnitedHealthcare of California
With spring nearly here, people in California and across the country will contend with an annual tradition many would rather skip: The shift to daylight saving time.
The process of “springing forward” means losing an hour of sleep, which can disrupt our daily routines and may have various health implications, including an increased risk of heart attacks, mood disturbances and accidents such as car crashes.
Previous polling has found 62% of Americans would rather stop changing the clocks altogether, an approach used by just two states (Arizona and Hawaii). Without a clear path to making that happen nationally, it is important to identify ways to help ease the transition ahead of time while supporting your health in the days immediately after the change.
Here are three strategies to consider:
Modify and optimize your sleep routine. During the days before the time change (this year on March 9), aim to shift your bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night. Doing this may help minimize the potential of feeling tired after the change, reducing the impact of losing an hour of sleep all at once.
Furthermore, taking steps to optimize your sleep routine may prove beneficial amid the shift to daylight savings time and yearround. Potential tactics can include adding a sleep mask (or blackout curtains) to minimize night-time exposure to light, which studies show may contribute chronic conditions such as diabetes and weight gain.
Also, skip consuming caffeine and alcohol during the evening,
and stop eating food about three hours before shuteye, as digesting food may disrupt sleep quality.
Get active earlier in the day. One benefit of the move to daylight saving time is the potential for additional sun exposure, which is a crucial source of vitamin D and helps regulate our wake/sleep cycles. However, while research shows sunlight exposure during the morning can help promote sleep, too much light exposure –including artificial sources such as TVs, smartphones and tablets – late in the day and evening may suppress melatonin and reduce sleepiness.
On the Sunday after the time change, make it a point to get outside early in the day for at least 30 to 60 minutes, ideally for some exercise such as a walk, run or bike ride. Importantly, research shows people who consistently exercise report improved sleep quality and fewer sleep disorders such as insomnia.
Exercise caution while driving, especially adolescents. During the days after the time change, 55% of people report experiencing tiredness. That post-time-change grogginess may be why one study found the risk of fatal car crashes increased by 6%.
For teenagers, another study found during the days after the time change that students were sleepier, had slower reaction times and were less focused. Given many young people have limited experience behind the wheel, parents may consider limiting how much their adolescents drive during the days immediately after the time change.
With the twice-a-year time change a reality for now, considering these tips may ease the transition during the spring and fall and support your well-being all year.
Community News
Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) today named Eunice Abel, a youth advocate and undergraduate student, as 2025 Woman of the Year for Assembly District 45. Assemblymembers, including Ramos celebrated their honorees on the Assembly floor today.
“Eunice is a tireless and steadfast advocate for young people in the Inland Empire and is dedicated to eliminating inequities,” Ramos said. “She is especially committed to addressing youth homelessness, a legislative priority for me since my election. Even at her young age of 22, she has built an exemplary record of positive action and contributions to our community,” Ramos stated.
Abel, born in Aba, Abia, Nigeria, immigrated to the United States at 11 years old and navigated life as an unaccompanied minor throughout her childhood. She confronted countless obstacles, including unstable housing, poverty and difficulty in accessing an education. This struggle fueled her passion for advocacy and inspired her to become a youth
homeless advocate.
“This award is a testament to youth who are fighting to empower other youth, showing that our work is valuable and that standing up for others is not a waste of time,” Abel said.
She has served as a youth ambassador for non-profits that support underprivileged youth. In 2022 Abel was elected Chairperson for the Youth Advisory Board of San Bernardino County where she supported several initiatives to aid homeless youth in San Bernardino County. She later became Youth Leadership Coordinator and revived the Youth Advocacy Summit. This summit brought together legislators, service providers, and youth in San Bernardino County to raise awareness and facilitate meaningful conversation about youth homelessness.
Her advocacy extends to other policy areas that affect the overall well-being of California youth such as food insecurity, immigration and racial equity. Abel will graduate with her Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy this spring from University of California, Riverside.
Community News
Time for Change Foundation (TFCF) proudly announces the grand opening of its newest shelter, a vital addition to its mission of providing safe, stable housing for individuals and families working toward self-sufficiency.
This expansion underscores TFCF’s unwavering commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness. Since its inception, TFCF has helped over 4,800 individuals achieve self-sufficiency and reunited 325 children from foster care with their mothers—turning despair into hope and homelessness into stability.
These life-changing efforts have empowered families to reclaim their futures and build generational success, reinforcing TFCF’s role as a transformative force in the community.
The grand opening event will take place on March 15th at 9:00 AM, bringing together community leaders, partners, and supporters to celebrate this milestone. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the facility, hear inspiring stories from program participants, and learn more about how this new shelter will serve the growing needs of the community.
“For over two decades, Time for Change Foundation has been a beacon
of hope for those seeking a fresh start,” said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director of TFCF. “This new shelter represents another step in breaking the cycle of homelessness and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and support.”
In addition to housing, residents will have access to wraparound services, which include but are not limited to workforce development, financial literacy, mental health support, and case management—ensuring they receive the tools needed to thrive independently.
The grand opening marks a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to combat homelessness and uplift the community. As TFCF continues to grow, it remains dedicated to expanding its reach, developing innovative solutions, and strengthening partnerships to ensure lasting change for those in need.
As TFCF continues to expand its impact, the organization invites local businesses, government agencies, and philanthropic partners to join in supporting these life-changing initiatives.
Be a part of this transformative moment and celebrate the grand opening of Time for Change Foundation's newest shelter. Register now: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/r7v2w3k
PHOTO TFCF
Time for Change Foundation celebrates the grand opening of its newest shelter, expanding its mission to provide stable housing and support services for individuals and families on their path to self-sufficiency.
PHOTO RAMOS’ OFFICE
Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) honors Eunice Abel as the 2025 Woman of the Year for Assembly District 45, recognizing her tireless advocacy for youth and efforts to combat homelessness in the Inland Empire
City of Riverside Breaks Ground on Northside Agricultural Innovation Center
Community News
The City of Riverside broke ground on the Northside Agricultural Innovation Center on March 4, which will demonstrate how sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural technologies can increase crop yields in the face of climate change while preparing the next generation of farmers.
The NAIC will be the first facility of its kind in the U.S., featuring solar-powered greenhouses and solar panels over farm fields that will harness the sun’s energy, power the center and return up to 1 megawatt of renewable annually energy to the grid. The solar greenhouses will produce three times the yield of a typical farm, while using 80% less water.
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson noted that the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Energy have recognized the NAIC as one of the top five ag projects in the US to help future proof farming.
It will train at least 135 people each year and assist 610 new farmers and ag tech startups annually, launching 25 companies during the next ten years.
“This transformative, sustainable and innovative project will bring lasting benefits to Riverside’s Northside neighborhood,” Lock Dawson said. “It also will help us as a city, a region, a state and a nation be more resilient in growing food in an environment that is getting warmer and drier -- and to do it all with less water while creating renewable energy. We were on the cutting edge of ag 125 years ago when we exported the Washington navel orange using new refrigeration techniques. We continue to lead in the agri-tech space.”
The 8-acre site will feature safe routes for walking and biking, improving access to open spaces, along with a tree nursery, a community garden, a farmers’ market, and a carbon-sequestering orchard. NAIC will provide resources for sustainable living, local economic growth, and workforce development, as well as
hands-on training for residents, including youth education programs.
With more than $10 million in local, state, and private funding, the project will establish a state-of-the-art facility for sustainable agriculture training. It will offer educational opportunities for everyone from K-PhD students to the general public in the Northside.
“The center adds another game-changing new development to enhance our Northside community—the city’s oldest neighborhood,” said City Councilmember Philip Falcone, who represents the area. “In Riverside we care deeply about where we have been and where we are going. The NAIC is transforming a once-thriving farm into an innovative agricultural space of the 21st century that will lead the way in generating renewable energy, being prudent with our natural resources and leading the U.S. in sustainable agricultural innovation.”
PHOTO CITY OF RIVERSIDE
City and community leaders break ground on Riverside’s Northside Agricultural Innovation Center, a first-of-its-kind facility pioneering climate-smart farming and renewable energy.
