two unidentified students of color, one male and one female, both 14years-old, fought inside a classroom at Jehue Middle School. Both individuals involved in the incident have been issued citations, but community groups demand the female’s charges be dropped, arguing that she is the victim.
According to an official statement released by the Colton Police Department, the investigation is ongoing, specifying that “The case will be forwarded to the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, Juvenile Division, for review.”
Rialto Unified School District (RUSD) stated it will cooperate with Colton PD throughout the investigation. In a statement on Instagram, Senator Eloise Gomez Reyes said “it is critical to ensure that school staff are present and properly trained to intervene effectively in violent situations, particularly those
that have the potential to be racially motivated.”
According to sources, the teacher present was a substitute teacher. Their identity has not been released.
RUSD spokeswoman Syeda Jafri echoed Reyes’ concerns, citing violence and racial slurs, in an official statement.
“The District does not condone the violent actions of the students and does not tolerate hate speech on any of its campuses,” Jafri said. “Corrective measures have been implemented.”
Following a press conference held outside Jehue Middle School, IECN spoke with Najee Ali, a senior community organizer with Los Angeles Metropolitan Churches, a nonprofit organization.
“We demand justice for the young African American female student who attends Jehue middle school who was
By Manny Sandoval
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr. was killed in a March 17 crash while responding to assist in a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle, authorities confirmed.
The suspect, identified as Ryan Turner, has a history of fleeing law enforcement and reckless endangerment, according to the Rialto Police Department.
The fatal collision occurred at approximately 11:10 a.m. at the intersection of Seneca Road and El Evado Road. Officials said Deputy Cuevas was driving a patrol
SUV when he collided with another vehicle while en route to assist in an active pursuit of Turner, who was driving a stolen vehicle. The impact caused extensive damage and knocked down live electrical wires. Cuevas was pronounced dead at the scene.
Suspect’s Criminal History and Prior Pursuits
Turner, a repeat offender with an extensive criminal record, had previously led Rialto police on a high-speed chase on January 29, 2024, that also resulted in a crash.
During that pursuit, Turner was seen driving a reported stolen vehicle and fled at speeds exceeding 90 mph on surface streets, recklessly weaving through Rialto and San Bernardino. At the intersection of Foothill Boulevard and Meridian Avenue, a pursuing officer collided with another vehicle that entered the intersection despite emergency lights and sirens being activated.
Although Turner initially escaped capture, he was later apprehended by the San Bernardino Police Department (Case# 2412029). Even while in custody, Turner attempted to flee on foot while handcuffed but was restrained and booked into Rialto Police custody.
Turner was charged with felony evading, grand theft auto, and possession of a stolen vehicle. However, on February 22, 2024, he accepted a plea deal with the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, pleading no contest to vehicle theft (VC 10851(a)) and receiving a 16-month county jail sentence.
Early Release and Policy Controversy Despite his sentence, Turner was released in October 2024 after serving only 8 months, benefiting from custody credits under PC 4019, a law enacted in 2011 allowing felony offenders to serve reduced sentences in county jails.
Rialto Police Chief Mark Kling condemned the system that allowed Turner’s early release.
Three Shot in Colton in Broad Daylight; Shooter Still at Large
PHOTO CHRIS SALAZAR RUSD Spokesperson Syeda Jafri speaking at the podium during the press conference in front of Jehue Middle School on March 13th at 3:30 PM.
PHOTO RPD AND SBCSD
Suspect Ryan Turner (left), a repeat offender identified by Rialto police as the driver of the stolen vehicle, and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr. (right), who was killed in a pursuit-related crash.
Classroom Fight (cont.)
- viciously assaulted and knocked unconscious by a fellow student as racial slurs were being hurled at her,” Ali said.
Deputy Killed (cont.)
“So, we're outraged to find out that she was indeed sighted, and for us, it's criminalizing the victim, and we plan on protesting the Colton law enforcement agency responsible and demand
- "Our hearts are broken for the deputy’s family as they process this tragedy. Furthermore, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department should not be preparing to bury one of their own. Their loss is law enforcement’s loss."
He further criticized AB 109 and PC 4019, stating that under previous sentencing laws, Turner would have likely remained in prison—potentially preventing this tragedy.
"Ryan Turner’s actions speak loudly that he has
that they retract the citation.”
This is a developing story. Follow IECN as the story develops.
a habitual pattern of fleeing law enforcement because he fears no consequences."
Community Response and Road Closures
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department released a statement honoring Deputy Cuevas’ service and sacrifice, while the San Bernardino Police Officers Association and other law enforcement groups extended condolences.
Authorities closed Seneca Road and El Evado Road for the remainder of March 17th (the day of the incident) while investigators processed the scene and cleared debris. This is a developing
Michael Segura Appointed Executive Director of Garcia Center to Empower Artists and Expand Dr. Ernie Garcia’s Vision for Creative Entrepreneurship
By Manny Sandoval
Michael Segura has been appointed executive director of the Garcia Center for the Arts, stepping into a role that he says represents both a new beginning and a continuation of the legacy established by Ernest Garcia, the center’s late founder and namesake.
With plans to strengthen arts advocacy, expand creative entrepreneurship, and develop sustainable funding for local artists, Segura is focused on ensuring the Garcia Center remains a driving force in San Bernardino’s cultural revitalization. Segura, who began his tenure on Feb. 27, 2025, has been involved with the Garcia Center since its earliest days. A longtime community organizer and artist, he was among the first to help revitalize the space when it was still known as the Culture Center.
“Before it was even the Garcia Center, Ernie invited us—San Bernardino Generation Now— to be part of this vision,” Segura said. “I was a volunteer helping to bring the space to life. I’ve seen it go through its phases, and as a practicing artist, I was fortunate to receive studio space from Ernie, which allowed me to build my portfolio and get into my master’s program.”
A San Bernardino native, Segura graduated from Cajon High School in 2010 before earning a degree in graphic design with a minor in studio art from California State University, San Bernardino. He later pursued a Master of Fine Arts at the University of New Mexico, specializing in arts and ecology with a minor in arts and business leadership. His education, he said, provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of arts, community development, and sustainability.
Returning to San Bernardino after graduate
school, Segura applied his skills in both journalism and organizing. He worked with Inland Empire Community News and Inland Congregations United for Change, where he engaged in grassroots organizing and used the arts as a tool for civic engagement. He also played a role in fostering San Bernardino’s creative economy, helping organize downtown art walks and advocating for public art initiatives.
Garcia, who passed away on April 5, 2023, at the age of 93, was a lifelong advocate for education and the arts. After a decades-long career in education, including serving as dean of the College of Education at Cal State San Bernardino, he turned his attention to transforming the city’s cultural landscape.
“The Garcia Center for the Arts was dedicated to my wife Dottie and I,” Garcia said in 2020, when he retired from his role as executive director. “I want to say thank you to the community. What have I done in the arts? I sang… I’ve even acted and created a lot of art.”
Garcia envisioned the center as the heart of an arts corridor along E Street, a hub that would bring galleries, affordable studios, and creative spaces to San Bernardino.
“Ernie always talked about an arts corridor running from the old McDonald’s site all the way into downtown,” Segura said. “He saw the Garcia Center as the spark for something bigger— creating affordable spaces for artists to live, work, and thrive. We want to continue that work, advocating for funding, strengthening arts policies, and ensuring that arts and culture remain accessible to the low-income communities we serve.”
Full story at IECN.com.
By Dr.G (Dr Luis S González), Contributing Writer
On Saturday, March 15, the Hutton Community Center transformed into a vibrant display of flowers, plants, and citrus fruits. Now in its tenth year, the Riverside/San Bernardino Orchid Society and the Riverside Flower Show Association once again joined forces to present an impressive exhibition of plants, flowers, and colorful floral arrangements, delighting both garden enthusiasts and the general public.
The show ran from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., following an intense judging period in which more than 200 entries were evaluated for form, beauty, and display. Several awards were presented at the close of the event, but the real winner was the city of Colton. With strong attendance and large-scale participation, the city not only welcomed many new gardening enthusiasts but also fostered a growing appreciation for floral arts within the community.
Underscoring this point, the newly established Colton 50+ Garden Club participated for the first time, submitting flower and garden entries while quickly becoming engaged with local flower show associations. “It’s amazing how this group has ‘blossomed,’” said event coordinator Ron Lang. “They just started the group in February and have already become an active partner.”
Upon entering the exhibition, attendees were greeted with a dazzling display of lavender orchids, a warm welcome from event hosts, and a large-scale exhibit hall filled with colorful flowers, plants, citrus, photographs, and educational poster boards. As always, the most
popular attraction was the vast array of exquisite floral arrangements, leaving spectators in awe.
From the opening judging session to the announcement of the grand prize winner, attendees had ample opportunity to appreciate first-class floral designs and arrangements. “This is a very unique event, and we are delighted to bring it to Colton,” said Linda Lang, who co-coordinated the event with her husband, Ron.
In addition to the judging and displays, live piano music was provided by Colton Council Member and community advocate Dr. G. “Setting the mood is important for this event,” said Ron Lang, adding that attendees also had the chance to participate in educational presentations. These included three hands-on workshops: How to Make Hypertufa Pots, Basic Canning Skills, and Planting Fairy Gardens. The workshops were free of charge, and lunch was provided for all participants.
The Garden Festival and Flower Show were a resounding success. Ron and Linda Lang, along with their respective associations, are to be congratulated for hosting this exceptional event. A true hidden gem in the city, the show continues to bring beauty and education to the community, and many hope it will be a staple in Colton for years to come.
Anyone interested in flowers, plants, and gardening techniques is encouraged to attend one of the many activities planned throughout the year. For more information about the Master Gardeners Club, contact Linda Lang at 951-663-5237.
PHOTO DR. G
Organizers and judges of the Garden Festival and Flower Show event at Hutton Community Center.
Education
San Bernardino
County Sending Two Spelling Bee Champions to the Scripps National Spelling Bee
By Community News
San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) was proud to crown two students as 2025 San Bernardino County Spelling Bee Champions following the intense linguistic competition held at San Bernardino Valley College on Mar. 12. Fifth grade student, Angeline Wang, and seventh grade student, Hannah Kuo, were named champions after going more than 12 rounds with their fellow competitors.
More than two dozen students from throughout the County, participated in the fifth annual county spelling bee competition, representing a diverse array of school districts and charter schools.
"We are incredibly proud of every participant who showcased their exceptional spelling skills on stage,” said County Su-
perintendent Ted Alejandre.
“Hosting this annual event is an honor as it serves not only as an educational competition but also as a celebration of language, a confidence booster, and a foundation for lifelong learning.”
Angeline, a student at Caryn Elementary School in the Etiwanda School District, solidified her position as county spelling bee champion after correctly spelling the word, “babushka.”
Hannah was named the County spelling bee co-champion after successfully spelling the word “bacciferous.”
The champions will now prepare to compete on the national stage where they will represent San Bernardino County during the Scripps National Spelling Bee in May.
Angeline expressed gratitude towards her teacher, Mr. Pilawski, for helping her prepare
for the competition. In addition to spelling, the fifth-grader says she also enjoys reading and math.
"My favorite subject is history, and I play soccer and the piano. I love to spend my free time baking treats, and I also enjoy dog sitting. I want to thank my parents for the support they’ve given me in preparation for the Spelling Bee,” said Hannah.
Participating school districts in this year’s spelling bee included Adelanto Elementary SD, Apple Valley Unified SD, Central SD, Etiwanda SD, Ontario-Montclair SD, San Bernardino City Unified SD, Upland Unified SD as well as Granite Mountain Charter School.
The San Bernardino County Spelling Bee not only celebrates academic achievement but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants.
Spectrum Digital Education Grant Applications
Community News
Spectrum announced a commitment of $1 million to Spectrum Digital Education in 2025, raising its total investment in the program to more than $11 million since 2017. Spectrum Digital Education distributes grants to nonprofits that create opportunities for community members by expanding access to digital tools, skills training and resources. Nonprofit organizations can learn more about Spectrum Digital Education and apply for a grant from March 3 at 9 a.m. ET through March 28 at 5 p.m. ET.
Spectrum Digital Education partners with nonprofits across the Company’s 41-state service area that share a common mission of leveraging connectivity to create personal, professional and educational opportunities for unserved and underserved individuals. In addition to programs that put devices into the
Due March 28
hands of those that need them, Spectrum Digital Education funds initiatives that teach community members how they can use connected devices to improve their lives.
“Connectivity is the foundation for strong and thriving communities – it's how students complete assignments, job seekers find careers and seniors stay engaged in our digital world,” said Rahman Khan, Group Vice President, Community Impact.
“By supporting nonprofits that share our belief in the unlimited power that connectivity holds, Spectrum Digital Education is creating opportunities and driving positive change within the communities we serve.”
Spectrum Grants Delivering Real-World Impact
Since 2017, Spectrum Digital Education has awarded 327 grants to 170 unique organizations, benefiting over 173,000 community members across Spectrum’s service area. With
grant funding, nonprofits have distributed more than 18,700 laptops and other devices and sponsored over 42,000 classes focused on digital education.
With the backing of Spectrum Digital Education, nonprofits are creating opportunities for community members. Seniors in Service in Tampa, Florida engages older adults in volunteer opportunities and leveraged grant funding to teach seniors digital skills, also enabling them to train others in their community.
To be eligible for a Spectrum Digital Education grant, organizations must serve communities within Spectrum’s 41-state service area and have 501(c)(3) taxexempt status. More information on how to apply is available on the Spectrum Digital Education grants page.
Public Safety
Three Shot in Colton in Broad Daylight; Shooter Still at Large
By Manny Sandoval
Authorities are investigating an attempted homicide after three people were shot Tuesday evening in Colton.
At 5:59 p.m. on March 11, Colton Police officers responded to reports of gunfire in the 1400 block of Veterans Way. Upon arrival, they found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers administered life-saving aid until Colton Fire Department paramedics took over.
Two victims were transported to a nearby hospital in serious condition. A third individual, also wounded in the shooting, later arrived at the same hospital seeking
treatment.
On March 13th, Colton Police PIO Michael Sandoval said, “The victims are in stable condition. There have been no arrests. The Detectives are working the investigation and asking for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.”
The Colton Police Department’s Detective Division has taken over the case. Investigators urge anyone with information to contact Sergeant Shawn McFarland at (909) 370-5000 or via email at smcfarland@coltonca.gov. Anonymous tips can be submitted through the We-Tip hotline at 1800-78-CRIME or online at www.wetip.com.
Three Individuals Arrested And Twenty-Two Drivers Cited At Colton DUI Checkpoint
By Colton PD
On March 14, 2025, the Colton Police Department conducted a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint in the 1000 block of N. Mt. Vernon Avenue from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m.
A total of 317 vehicles passed through the checkpoint, with 198 screened for signs of intoxication or driving without a license.
Officers made two DUI arrests and apprehended a third individual on an outstanding warrant. Additionally, 22 drivers received citations for traffic-related offenses. DUI checkpoint locations
are selected based on reported incidents of impaired driving-related crashes.
The primary objective of these checkpoints is to enhance public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the roads.
Additional DUI checkpoints will be conducted in the future at undisclosed locations.
This checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
PHOTO SBCSS
Angeline Wang and Hannah Kuo proudly hold their trophies after being crowned 2025 San Bernardino County Spelling Bee Champions at San Bernardino Valley College on March 12.
Community News
Another door to stability and success has opened. Time for Change Foundation (TFCF) proudly unveiled its fourth emergency shelter, expanding its life-changing services for individuals and families in need.
The grand opening, held on March 15, 2025, brought together community leaders, including Mayor Helen Tran and 7th Ward Councilwoman Dr. Treasure Ortiz, to celebrate this milestone in the fight against homelessness.
“This isn’t just about housing—it’s about restoring dignity, rebuilding lives, and creating opportunities for lasting change,” said Vanessa Perez, Executive Director of Time for Change Foundation.
“With this new shelter, we are opening more than doors; we are opening possibilities.”
TFCF has served over 4,800 individuals and reunited 325 children with their mothers from foster care, proving that with the right support, families can heal, rebuild, and create brighter futures.
Mayor Helen Tran praised the organization’s unwavering commitment, stating, “This new shelter is more than just a house—it’s a lifeline. It represents compassion, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of this organization in our community to uplift those who need it most.”
Adding to the celebration, award-winning actress and mental health advocate Taraji P. Henson contributed to the effort by donating essential furnishings to help transform the shelter into a warm and welcoming home for its residents. Her generosity reinforces the power of collective action in addressing homelessness and supporting vulnerable communities.
Underserved Farmers in IE to Receive Relief Through $3.1M Grant Program for Extreme Weather Losses
The opening was particularly meaningful as it took place on Dr. Kim Carter-Tillman’s 32nd sobriety birthday—a full-circle moment for the TFCF founder, whose journey from adversity to advocacy has inspired countless others to rebuild their lives.
For over two decades, TFCF has been a driving force in transforming lives, offering more than just shelter—it provides hope, stability, and a pathway to self-sufficiency. To date,
Community News
The Inland Empire Resource Conservation District (IERCD) has announced the opening of its California Underserved Small Producer (CUSP) Program, supported by funding from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). This initiative aims to support small and underserved farmers and ranchers who have experienced economic hardship due to extreme weather.
The program offers reimbursement grants ranging from $2,500 to $20,000 for lost revenue and increased costs caused by drought, flooding, wildfire, pest quarantine, severe windstorms, and extreme cold. Eligible farmers can seek reimbursement for allowable expenses, including:
Crop and livestock loss
Debris removal
Pest quarantines
Infrastructure and equipment damage
Increased utility costs
IERCD will review applications and award grants every two months until all funding has been expended. The first application cycle runs from February 15 –March 31, 2025.
Expanding Support for Farmers
IERCD was a previous recipient of the CUSP Drought Relief Grant in 2023, successfully ad-
With the addition of this new shelter, TFCF continues to break barriers, offering comprehensive programs that address the root causes of homelessness, including job readiness, financial literacy, and mental health support.
The organization remains unwavering in its mission to provide individuals with the tools they need to thrive.
ministering $1 million in funding over eight months to farmers who faced severe drought impacts.
With this new program, IERCD has the opportunity to distribute $3.1 million, expanding relief efforts beyond drought to cover a wider range of extreme weather events.
Commitment to Farmers and Community Resilience
IERCD is dedicated to supporting farmers who provide their communities with nutritious, locally sourced produce. Producers play a crucial role in fighting local food insecurity, increasing food sovereignty, and improving public health.
While farmers have always faced extreme weather challenges, climate change has increased the frequency and severity of these events, often forcing producers to navigate multiple disasters within the same year.
These conditions place additional mental, physical, and economic stress on farmers. The CUSP Program will provide essential relief funding, helping resilient producers rebuild their operations while remaining committed to their communities. Priority will be given to small-scale farmers and those from socially disadvantaged communities, who have historically been excluded from large-scale relief programs.
For more information on the CUSP Program, eligibility, and to access the application, visit iercd.org/cusp.
PHOTO IERCD
A local farmer receives a grant check through the IE Resource Conservation District’s California Underserved Small Producer Program, providing relief for those impacted by extreme weather.
PHOTO TFCF
San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran, 7th Ward Councilwoman Dr. Treasure Ortiz, and Time for Change Foundation Executive Director Vanessa Perez join founder Dr. Kim Carter-Tillman and community advocates for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of TFCF’s fourth emergency shelter, expanding vital housing services for families in need.
Inland
Community News
On March 7, 2025, Senator Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Colton) hosted the 9th Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon, recognizing outstanding women from the 29th Senate District for their exceptional contributions to their communities. This year, the event received over 100 nominations, highlighting the incredible work being done by women across the Inland Empire.
This annual tradition honors women who have demonstrated leadership, resilience, and dedication in fields such as public service, education, healthcare, business, and advocacy. These honorees represent the best of the 29th Senate District, inspiring others and shaping a brighter future for the region.
"The Women of Distinction we celebrate today have dedicated their lives to service, leadership, and lifting up our communities," said Senator Reyes. "They are the educators, advocates, business leaders, and trailblazers who are creating a lasting impact in the 29th Senate District and beyond. It is important that we take the time to recognize their hard work, honor their contributions, and ensure that their voices are heard."
2025 Women of Distinction Honorees:
Lizbeth Abeln – Community Organizer, Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice
MaryHelen Betancourt – Board Member, Colton Area Museum
Ashley Bettas-Alcala – President, San Bernardino Teachers Association
Cecilia Antoinette Callicott – President, City of San Bernardino Water Board
Diana Ordaz Cherrington – Founder, Alpha Prime Health Insurance Solutions
Dr. Claudia M. Davis – Vice Chair, Community Hospital of San Bernardino Board
Pamela Deans – Executive Director, Microenterprise Collaborative of Inland Southern California
Lois Sicking – Retired Air Pollution Engineer, California Air Resources Board
Ana Gonzalez – Executive Director, Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ)
Jamie Lamb – CEO, Cedar House Life Change Center
Jeanette Lopez – Executive Assistant to Chief Mark Kling, Rialto Police Department
Dr. Alexandra Lopez-Vera – Director, Vida Medical Spanish Program at California University of Science and Medicine
Carmen Millner – Owner, Kiddie Academy Child Care Learning Center
Leticia Nava-Cruz – Director of Administrative Services and City Treasurer, City of Highland
Kristin Bryan Pierce – President & CEO, Century 21 Lois Lauer Realty
Diana Randolph – Vice President, Pathway from Boys to Men
Heather Rawlings-Polk – Executive Director, Rancho Cucamonga Chamber of Commerce
Juana Sotelo – Chairperson, Women of Steel Local 8599, United Steelworkers
Alisha Stanly – CFO, Enterprise Building & 320 Premier Hall
Patricia Williams – Founder & Executive Director, Angels’ Closet Charities
Arlinda Wilson – Survivor Specialist, California State
University, San Bernardino
2025 Senate District 29 Woman of the Year: Ana Gonzalez
This year, Ana Gonzalez was named the 2025 Woman of the Year for her tireless advocacy and leadership in environmental justice. As Executive Director of the Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ), Ana has championed policies that promote clean air, water, and healthier communities. Her dedication to intersectional advocacy has empowered marginalized communities and fostered meaningful change.
"Ana’s work in environmental justice has transformed lives and ensured that community voices are heard in key decision-making processes," said Senator Reyes. "Her leadership is an inspiration, and we are proud to honor her as our 2025 Woman of the Year."
Ana also serves on the South Coast AQMD’s Environmental Justice Advisory Group and the California Transportation Commission’s Interagency Equity Advisory Committee, working to advance policies that protect vulnerable communities.
A proud graduate of Cal State San Bernardino, she has spent nearly three decades uplifting the Inland Valley through advocacy, organizing, and leadership.
State Capitol Recognition
On March 11, 2025, Ana was honored at the California Senate’s Woman of the Year Ceremony in Sacramento, where she was recognized for her unwavering commitment to justice and community empowerment.
Senator Reyes extends her deepest gratitude to all the honorees for their service and dedication to making the 29th Senate District and the entire Inland Empire a better place.
PHOTO REYES’ OFFICE
Ana Gonzalez (Center) Executive Director, Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice recognized by Senator Eloise Gomez Reyes.
