Detectives from the Colton Police Department arrested a 28-year-old man from Corona on Jan. 2, 2025, for allegedly engaging in a sexual relationship with a minor under the age of 14. Albert Perez was taken into custody at his workplace in Fontana and booked at the West Valley Detention Center on charges of unlawful sexual intercourse and lewd acts with a minor, under California Penal Code sections PC 261.5 and PC 288(c)(1). As of Jan. 6, Perez remains in custody with bail set at $80,000.
The investigation began on Dec. 30, 2024, when a concerned individual contacted Colton police to report the alleged relationship. Detectives promptly took over the case and secured a Ramey Warrant, which allows law enforcement to arrest a suspect before formal charges are filed by the District Attorney’s office.
“This arrest demonstrates the importance of community members reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement,”
said Colton Police Lieutenant Wilson. “We rely on these tips to act quickly and protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”
A Growing Threat: Online Predators Authorities used this case as an opportunity to highlight the increasing risks of online predators using social media platforms and gaming networks to exploit children.
“Many predators use platforms like Instagram or online gaming to pose as peers and build trust with children,” Lt. Wilson explained. “Parents need to understand the risks and take proactive steps to educate their kids and monitor their activity. This issue requires ongoing communication and vigilance.”
Predators often begin by interacting with children in public spaces online, such as gaming lobbies, before transitioning to private messaging. Law enforcement warns that children may not recognize manipulative behavior, making
By Manny Sandoval
In a closed session held on January 8, 2025, the San Bernardino City Council convened to discuss the procedures for appointing the city’s next manager, a role pivotal to restoring stability in a city beleaguered by frequent administrative changes.
The meeting featured three public comments that underscored the community’s
urgent demand for consistent and effective leadership. Former City Councilmember Kim Calvin delivered a critical perspective on the council’s handling of city manager appointments. “I don’t know who you think is going to miraculously want to come to a city of this type of dysfunction.
You all will be the ones we, the community members hold accountable for every decision that you make going forward,” Calvin asserted. She challenged the council’s decision-making process, stating,
“Those of you who have already made the worst of decisions when it comes to bringing city managers to this city—I don't have to call out names, but I am prepared.”
Calvin further endorsed Clayton, asserting her effectiveness during her interim tenure. “If you chose former City Manager Charles Montoya, then I would think that hands down Interim City Manager
Colton Arrest, cont. next pg.
PHOTO COLTON PD
Albert Perez, 28, under arrest by Colton Police on January 2, 2025.
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
(Left to right) Councilmember Sandra Ibarra, Mayor Pro Tem Fred Shorett, and Councilmember Juan Figueroa at a council meeting on December 18th, 2024.
Colton Arrest (cont.)
- parental oversight critical.
Protecting Children from Exploitation
The Colton Police Department urges parents and guardians to implement the following strategies to protect their children:
Monitor Online Activity: Regularly check social media accounts,
SB City News (cont.)
privacy settings, and gaming platforms.
Educate About Online Dangers: Teach children about the risks of interacting with strangers and encourage them to report any suspicious activity.
Foster Open Communication: Create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their online experiences with
- Rochelle Clayton would be the best city manager that you could possibly think of that the City of San Bernardino could afford,” she added. She concluded her remarks by highlighting the stability Clayton has provided over the past seven months. “Interim City Manager Clayton has been in place for seven months providing the city with stability. What more are you asking for?”
Echoing this sentiment, Carlos Gonzales, Staff Coordinator for Teamsters Local 1932, emphasized the necessity of stability not only for union negotiations but for the entire community’s welfare. “Our city needs stability. Not only do we need stability for Teamsters Local 1932 to negotiate contracts, but our entire community needs stability in a city manager so we can make San Bernardino a better place for all of us,” Gonzales remarked. His comments reflect the concerns of the 180 City of San Bernardino employees represented by Teamsters Local 1932, who rely on steady leadership for their operations.
San Bernardino Councilwoman Dr. Treasure Ortiz of Ward 7 provided additional context on the council’s deliberations. “We did not have a discussion of the appointment of the next city manager. What we were assessing is our processes in general,” Ortiz explained. She emphasized the council’s focus on evaluating and improving their procedures to ensure a stable and effective appointment process. “It’s really about stability and it’s about the discussions that are circulating on a stable process for us and the residents,” Ortiz added.
Addressing the city’s tumultuous history with man-
trusted adults.
How to Help
The investigation into this case is ongoing, and police encourage anyone with additional information to come forward. Those with relevant information are asked to contact Detective Anthony Orozco at (909) 370-5184 or aorozco@coltonca.gov.
Rialto Appoints Army Veteran and Nonprofit Leader Edward Montoya Jr. to Vacant Seat
By Anthony Victoria, Frontline Observer and KVCR
Aagerial turnover, Ortiz noted, “Plus we have had 16 city managers in 16 years in San Bernardino,” underscoring the critical need for a reliable and lasting leadership solution. She also addressed concerns about communication clarity, stating, “Our city is going to be mindful of how items are worded and placed on the agenda moving forward because many community members were confused at what exactly was taking place and being discussed during this closed session meeting.”
Back to public comment, Christian Shaughnessy, a former candidate for Ward 3 City Council, also voiced strong support for the current Interim City Manager, Rochelle Clayton. “I’m speaking in favor of Interim City Manager Rochelle Clayton. She’s put in a lot of great, competent work over the years, and it’d be great to have her as the permanent city manager in San Bernardino,” Shaughnessy stated, highlighting Clayton’s contributions and advocating for her permanent appointment.
San Bernardino Public Information Officer Jeff Krauss clarified that no immediate actions were expected from the meeting. “We are not expecting any actions to be taken, it’s an opportunity for the council to meet to discuss the process of appointment,” Krauss stated.
As the council continues to navigate the appointment process, community leaders and residents alike are advocating for a transparent and stable selection to guide San Bernardino toward a more prosperous and less chaotic future.
City of San Bernardino Receives $14 Million to Build Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
By Community News
The City of San Bernardino has announced it has received a $14,055,578 Charging and Feuling Infrastructure Grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration to build the City’s first public charging network. The project, in partnership with Arcadia-based EVCS, will construct and operate 101 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at parks, libraries, senior centers, and other locations across the City.
San Bernardino is one of six organizations in the state and the only one in Southern California to receive this competitive grant.
“This grant propels San Bernardino toward a greener, more resilient future,” said Mayor Helen Tran. “By adding over 100 community EV charging stations, we are not only improving access to sustainable transportation but reaffirming our dedication to environmental progress and community growth.”
The lack of accessible chargers has prevented many individuals from considering electric vehicles ownership, especially renters and
residents of apartments. The new charging network is expected to increase EV adoption and provide convenient, affordable, and reliable charging for San Bernardino residents.
The project will install 77 Level 2 and 24 DC fast chargers at 15 municipally owned locations, including six parks/community centers, a soccer complex, the main library, City Hall, the Police Department, the City Yard, and several downtown parking locations. All sites will include Level 2 and DC fast chargers, Level 1 outlets for micromobility to charge e-bikes and scooters, and a 200kWh Battery Energy Storage System for reliability and resiliency.
As part of the project, the City of San Bernardino plans to partner with Arcadia based EVCS to operate and maintain the network. EVCS manages over 300 EV charging facilities in the western United States and will be providing $3.5 million to cover a portion of the equipment, construction, and operating costs. The City will also partner with a local non-profit or educational institution to develop workforce initiatives, including internships and apprenticeships in EV technology for local high
school and college students.
The Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Program awarded $635.69 million to 49 grantees across the nation to strategically deploy publicly accessible electric vehicle charging and alternative fueling infrastructure in the places people live and work – in addition to along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors.
“By equipping our communities with publicly accessible clean energy solutions, we are investing in a more sustainable and affordable future for Inland Empire residents,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “This grant will help San Bernardino implement EV chargers throughout the City, taking crucial steps to combat climate change, reduce air pollution and improve public health.”
The total project cost is $17,587,038 for design and engineering, permitting, construction, utility upgrades, commissioning, operations, and maintenance.
An agreement will be presented to the City Council for their approval in the coming months.
fter spending three hours interviewing 15 candidates, Rialto’s city council voted Tuesday night to appoint Edward Montoya Jr., a former Army medic and nonprofit leader, to the seat left vacant by Mayor Joe Baca Sr.
Baca Sr. was elected as the city’s new mayor in last November’s general election. Montoya Jr. is set to be sworn in to finish his term, which expires at the end of 2026.
While the vote was unanimous, Baca shared his desire to see future appointments follow the “highest vote-getter” approach, while residents expressed frustration over what they considered an orchestrated decision to appoint Montoya.
The interviews included a two-minute opening statement by each candidate, followed by questions from council members. Each candidate then provided a closing statement.
The council eventually backed a motion by Councilwoman Karla Perez to appoint Montoya, a former Army medic and nonprofit leader, to complete Mayor Joe Baca Sr. unfinished term.
Montoya highlighted infrastructure improvements and sustainable growth as his key goals and expressed gratitude for his appointment.
“Thank you everyone for allowing me this opportunity,” Montoya said. “You won’t be disappointed.”
Many people questioned the decision to appoint Montoya, including Linda Chapman, a Rialto resident
of 52 years, who described the process as feeling “staged.” She criticized the timing of the meeting and pointed out that the meeting was not made available online until the following morning.
While acknowledging that the city’s process to appoint Montoya was not illegal, Chapman argued it was unfair to bypass candidates who ran in the general election, even if they fell short, but “paid dues” by working for the people’s vote. She specifically advocated for Ana Gonzalez, the third-highest votegetter in the November election.
“The people who go out, spend the money, take the time to ask the citizens for their votes, should be the ones that are considered,” Chapman said. “To me, it feels like they’re trying to stack the council.”
Perez did not respond to requests from KVCR and the Frontline Observer for comment. During the meeting, she described the decision as difficult before announcing her nomination.
Aside from Montoya Jr.’s swearing in ceremony, Chapman — along with other residents and community groups — is expected to propose an ordinance to urge the Council to support the highest vote-getter process for filling future vacancies next week.
Originally Published by our media partners at KVCRNews.org
Public Safety
Extreme Santa Ana Wind Event Safety Updates and Resources
By San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County has been experiencing a high Santa Ana wind event since Tuesday. Gusts have reached up to 80 mph in some areas, while most of the Inland Empire experienced sustained winds of 50-60 mph.
The High Desert, including Victorville and Apple Valley, also saw gusts of 40-50 mph. These intense winds, combined with critically low humidity, created dangerous fire conditions and contributed to downed trees and potential damage throughout the region.
Though the most extreme weather has passed, residents should remain cautious as the region continues to experience gusty conditions into today, Jan. 9. These ongoing winds, though not as strong as earlier in the week, combined with low humidity, have extended the red flag warning for fire danger through this evening.
The National Weather Service advises that fire risks remain high, and any new fire ignitions could spread quickly due to critically dry conditions.
These weather conditions can cause power outages, and they may prompt Southern California Edison (SCE) to declare a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) to prevent wildfires. Residents are encouraged to monitor the SCE Outage Center for details on potential outages and estimated restoration times. Proactive planning and awareness can help minimize disruptions caused by these conditions.
San Bernardino County agencies have been actively responding to this wind event. The county’s Office of Emergency Services activated its Emergency Operations Center earlier in the week to coordinate recovery efforts.
County Fire strike teams, along with Public Works crews, addressed incidents ranging from downed trees to snow removal in the mountain communities of Big Bear and Wrightwood, which received unexpected snowfall on Monday.
For the most updated information on the high wind event, visit the county’s Extreme Wind Event Page. Explore safety tips, preparation guides and local resources to stay aware, vigilant and ready.
Sign up for emergency alerts
To quickly communicate information on impending dangers, the San Bernardino County Sheriff and County Fire send high-speed mass notifications via telephone and text messages through the Telephone Emergency Notification System (TENS) system.
Sign up for TENS to receive emergency alerts on your phone.
High wind safety tipsSafety tips for your home
Secure outdoor objects like furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that could blow away and cause damage.
Trim tree branches away from your home and power lines.
Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures and secure loose roofing materials.
Make sure you have sufficient water, non-perishable food, flashlights and batteries in case of power outages. Charge phones and medical devices in advance.
Tune in to local weather forecasts and bulletins through the National Weather Service, NOAA Weather Radio or local news.
Sign up for notifications through your energy provider or local emergency systems like San Bernardino County’s TENS system.
Safety tips for being outside
Stay indoors during high winds unless absolutely necessary.
If you are outside, find shelter immediately. Stay away from trees, power lines and flying debris.
Take cover next to a building or under a sturdy shelter if caught outside.
Watch for falling tree limbs and loose street signs or objects that may fall from balconies.
Avoid anything touching downed power lines, including vehicles or tree branches. Wet or snow-covered ground can conduct electricity.
Safety tips for downed power lines (Advice from Southern California Edison)
Never touch a fallen power line. Call 911 and the power company to report fallen power lines.
Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the water.
If you’re in a vehicle with a fallen power line on it, stay in the vehicle and remain calm until help arrives. It is safe to use your cellphone to call 911.
If you must leave the vehicle, exit by jumping away with both feet together, ensuring you do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Once on the ground, shuffle away without lifting your feet until you are several yards away.
Emergency Resources, Preparation Available to Residents
By Redlands Fire
Avoid stepping into or entering any water that a downed power line may be touching. Safety tips for driving Keep both hands on the wheel and reduce your speed to maintain control.
Watch for objects blowing across the roadway and keep a safe distance from vehicles in adjacent lanes, as strong winds can push them out of their path.
Avoid driving behind or near high-profile vehicles, such as trucks, vans, SUVs or trailers, as they are more prone to being pushed or flipped by wind gusts.
If winds are too severe to drive safely, pull onto the shoulder of the road, away from trees or tall structures. Stay in your vehicle and turn on hazard lights until conditions improve.
Stick to the speed limit, avoid hard braking, and stay alert to road hazards that could impede visibility.
Resources
National Weather Service –Weather and Hazards Data Viewer
Southern California Edison –Outage specific customer service issues: 800-611-1911
Billing and service inquiries: 800-684-8123
Maps showing PSPS boundaries and locations of about Community Resource Centers and Community Crew Vehicles: https://www.sce.com/outage-center/check-outage-status General information on PSPS: sce.com/psps
De-energization and restoration policies: sce.com/pspsdecisionmaking
Information on emergency preparedness, customer notifications, customer programs and other resources: sce.com/wildfire
Air Quality Alert – Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory. Strong Santa Ana winds will cause high particle pollution levels in parts of the Inland Empire, Los Angeles County and Orange County. AQMD –Home 211 – call 211 for health and social services resources
Following the high wind events, widespread power outages, as well as devastating wildfires throughout Southern California, the Redlands Fire Department wants to remind residents to prepare for emergencies ahead of time.
Redlands residents and businesses are encouraged to register for the City’s Emergency Notification System at https://www.cityofredlands.org/ post/emergency-notificationsystem. The system provides timely emergency notifications from the City, San Bernardino County, and State of California directly to mobile devices and computers through text and voice messages, and email.
Residents are also urged to create an account with Southern California Edison and follow @sce on social media to receive timely notifications regarding power outages and other electrical safety related issues. SCE is the best source of information regarding Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).
Southern California Edison also provides a Critical Care Backup Battery Program for customers who require continuous electricity to operate medical equipment. Contact Southern California Edison or visit https://www.sce.com/outagecenter/customer-resources-andsupport/critical-care-backup-batt ery-program to sign up for the program in preparation for futures power outages. Anyone who requires emergency medical care related to electronic medical equipment during a PSPS is urged to call 911. Redlands Firefighter/Paramedics will quickly respond to provide lifesaving care.
Community Resource Centers (CRC) are provided by SCE to support customers during PSPS and other large public safety activations. Services include information, light snacks, and resiliency kits. Customers may charge mobile devices and portable medical equipment. SCE offers in-language support and accommodates customers with disabilities or other access and functional needs.
If you see a downed powerline or electrical hazard call 911 and the appropriate resources will be dispatched to that location
In California, wildfires are not a matter of “if” but “when.” Stay safe with Cal Fire’s three-step wildfire preparation program, “Ready, Set, Go.” Information is available at readyforwildfire.org/preparefor-wildfire/.
Key components of the program are:
Ready: Harden your home, Create defensible space, Select fire resistant plants
Set: Build a wildfire action plan, Prepare your family, Pack your “Go Bag”
Go: Follow the evacuation guide, get your home ready, protect your animals
For up-to-date information and resources, the County of San Bernardino Office of Emergency Services has created an Extreme Wind Event webpage at Extreme Wind Event – Office of Emergency Services.
Be sure to follow the following social media pages for the most up to date information on the fires in Los Angeles: @lacountyfd @losangelesfiredepartment @calfire @sce @nws.
Suspect Arrested for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material
By Redlands PD
A20-year-old Redlands man was arrested Thursday, Jan. 9, for possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material.
Donovan Brenden Brawley was arrested following a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and the social media app Kik. Police served a search warrant at Brawley’s residence in the 100 block of South San Mateo Street and seized electronic devices including a cell phone, laptop computers and game consoles.
Brawley was booked at the Central Detention Center in San Bernardino and later released on bail.
Anyone with further information regarding Brawley or incidents of Child Sexual Abuse is asked to contact Redlands Police
Investigator Dale Peters at (909) 798-7659.
This investigation is part of an ongoing operation by the Internet Crimes Against Children’s regional task force known as Online Guardian 2.0 to crack down on the sexual exploitation of children online. The regional task force includes law enforcement agencies from San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Orange, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.
Anyone with information regarding crime or suspicious activity is asked to contact Redlands Police Dispatch at (909) 798-7681 ext. 1. Certain non-emergency crimes may also be reported online using the Redlands Police Department’s CopLogic reporting system at www.cityofredlands.org/reportcrime. Suspicious activity and tips can be reported using the City of Redlands 311 mobile app available for Android, iPhones, and iPads.
Inland Empire Community Foundation Announces
Community News
Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF) is pleased to announce Jesse Melgar as the next Chair of its Board of Directors, where he will become the first openly LGBTQ+ Chair, first Coachella Valley resident, and the first millennial to chair the Board. Melgar will succeed outgoing chair Nefertiti Long.
IECF also welcomes two new Board members, Felicia Alexander Elizabeth Romero, and Lou Monville who will serve four-year terms.
“I want to thank Nefertiti Long for her dedication and leadership as Board Chair these past few years, she continued our board’s long tradition of high caliber leadership and guidance to maintain an engaged and diverse board, all while supporting her passion through our Women’s Giving Fund,” said Michelle Decker, President and CEO of IECF.
“I am thrilled to welcome Jesse as our new Board Chair. Jesse has proven to be a changemaker and force for good in philanthropy, becoming an immediate leader on our board through his work as founder and chair of the CIELO Fund at our foundation. Importantly, he is a locally-grown leader who has used his talent to serve in senior leadership roles in government, academia, and in the private and nonprofit sectors. His skills, vast network, and strategic mindset will help us continue building a stronger culture of philanthropy in the IE.”
Public Hearing Conducted on Affordable Housing and Community Development
Community News
The Board of Supervisors conducted a public hearing on Tuesday, Jan. 14, at the County Government Center in San Bernardino to receive input from community residents on the strategic use of grant funds that the county receives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The hearing was also open to residents through videoconference locations in Joshua Tree and Hesperia.
“Today’s hearing provided vital feedback from our citizens on affordable housing and community development needs across the county,” said Community Development and Housing (CDH) Director Carrie Harmon. “Their input is important to us and will help shape the 2025 Consolidated Plan.”
Every five years, CDH is required to prepare a Consolidated Plan to identify affordable housing and community development needs and prioritize projects to address these needs. The purpose of the Consolidated Plan is to establish goals and delineate how grant funds will be utilized toward increasing affordable housing, reducing homelessness, and providing a range of social services to underserved communities for the next five years.
HUD grant funds can be allocated to eligible projects and activities in the unincorporated communities of the county as well as cooperating cities including Adelanto, Barstow, Big Bear Lake, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Montclair, Needles, Redlands, Twentynine Palms, Yucaipa and the Town of Yucca Valley. Additionally, the cities of Chino Hills and Rancho Cucamonga also qualify for HUD funding.
The public hearing concluded the
county’s efforts of obtaining citizen and stakeholder feedback to guide the use of federal funds for the Consolidated Plan. Prior efforts included a variety of approaches to achieve meaningful public engagement with residents and other stakeholders, including participation in various public meetings and events throughout the county, as well as the release of a community-wide survey.
In total, CDH staff attended 26 meetings and events in each region of the county including the mountains, deserts and valleys. Events ranged from participating in Municipal Advisory Council meetings, Continuum of Care Regional Steering Committee meetings, and senior meal distribution programs in Bloomington, Joshua Tree, Crestline and other communities. These efforts resulted in the completion of over 1,600 surveys to help inform the development of the Consolidated Plan.
A separate stakeholder and service provider survey was deployed to capture feedback from a variety of stakeholder viewpoints including fair housing/legal advocacy, housing, affordable housing, real estate and mortgage lending, community development and planning, transportation, education, homelessness, civic organizations, services for low-income households, people with disabilities, seniors, children, domestic violence victims and others.
“I want to thank our residents and stakeholders for sharing their thoughts with us throughout this process,” said Harmon. “We are committed to enhancing the quality of life in our communities by meeting the county’s affordable housing and community development needs.”
CDH will return to the Board of Supervisors to present the draft Consolidated Plan and Action Plan for review and approval in March 2025.
ence and Chicano Studies from UCLA, and a Master of Public Policy from UC Riverside as a member of the inaugural cohort and full-tuition merit scholar. In 2024, he received the UCR Chancellor’s prestigious Young Alumni of Distinction Award and was an inaugural UCLA Bruin Excellence in Civic Engagement Award recipient. He lives in Palm Springs with his husband, Angel.
Board Member - Felicia Alexander is a San Bernardino City Unified School District Trustee. She is also an Aerospace and Defense executive who has led global supply chain efforts for over 30 years. She is also an adjunct professor at California State University Long Beach teaching courses in operations management and supply chain management. She earned her BA from UC Santa Barbara and MA from JFK University, as well as a certificate in Project Management and Systems Engineering from California Institute of Technology. Mrs. Alexander is very engaged in the community. Some of her activities include San Bernardino County Equal Opportunity Commissioner, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. (Past President of Kappa Omega Chapter), President-elect San Bernardino Assistance League and American Legion Auxiliary. Mrs. Alexander is married to Damon L. Alexander and they have a blended family of 5.
"We are in a critical moment for our region—one that calls on all of us to dream big, invest in lasting change, and work across and through our differences to ensure that our neighbors can live dignified lives,” said Melgar. “As the largest and oldest foundation in the Inland Empire, our board looks forward to advancing inclusive, thoughtful philanthropy that drives forward the ambitions of our communities, fosters new partnerships, and attracts more resources to fund efforts that help our region thrive. As board chair, I am eager to collaborate with our board, the talented IECF team, and partners across foundations, government, nonprofits, faith-based institutions, and our generous donors to continue building a region our future generations can be proud of.”
Chair - Jesse F. Melgar, M.P.P., joined the Board of the Inland Empire Community Foundation in 2021, having recently served as Vice Chair, and as a member of the Policy and Marketing & Grants Committees. He is the founder and chair of the CIELO Fund at the Foundation, where he has led a regional committee in raising over $2 million to support Latino organizations and scholarships in the region. Professionally, Melgar is Senior Advisor for Strategy and Public Affairs at the University of California Possibility Lab where he advises state departments and agencies on engagement strategies and policies that support an inclusive democracy. He is a Governor’s appointee and Vice Chair of the California Volunteers Commission where he advocated to bring millions in funding to the region for the California College Corps program. He is also a co-founder of the Inland Empire LGBTQ+ Center in downtown Riverside, and an advisory board member for the UCR School of Public Policy and Equality California.
Melgar spent a decade in state government serving as a communications director and spokesperson for some of California’s top leaders including Gavin Newsom, Alex Padilla, Ricardo Lara, and led communications for the California Latino Legislative Caucus and Equality California. Melgar earned a bachelor's degree with dual majors in Political sci-
Board Member - Elizabeth F. Romero is the Assistant Vice Chancellor of Government & Community Relations at the University of California, Riverside (UCR). Prior to joining UCR, Elizabeth served as the Director of Community and Government Relations for Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest in Riverside and Imperial Counties. Elizabeth also managed the Building Healthy Communities Initiative funded by The California Endowment. She has also worked for Desert Arc, University Center for Developmental Disabilities and served as a Legislative Assistant to the late Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor Roy Wilson and Supervisor John J. Benoit.
Elizabeth earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science at the University of California, Riverside. She also holds a Masters of Politics, Economics and Business from Claremont Graduate University. Elizabeth is an alumnus of the Hispanas Organized for Political Equality (HOPE) Leadership Institute and Women’s Policy Institute sponsored by the Women’s Foundation of California. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the Desert Regional Medical Center and Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert.
Board Member – Lou Monville is Lou Monville Senior Vice President of the Raincross Corporate Group, a collection of businesses involved in real estate development and entitlement, convention center management, operations and catering, and convention and sports sales and marketing. He also serves as the Senior Vice President of the Riverside of the Building Industry Association of Sothern California, Riverside County Chapter and is the former Chair of the Riverside County Economic Recovery Task Force focused on the economic recovery in the County of Riverside post COVID-19.
Monville is a Trustee Emeritus and a past Chair of the Board of the California State University Board of Trustees and a former member of the California Community College Board of Governors. Lou holds a BA in Communications and Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from California State University, San Bernardino.
PHOTO IECF
Jesse Melgar has been named Chair of the Inland Empire Community Foundation Board of Directors, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+, first Coachella Valley resident, and first millennial to hold the position. Melgar, who succeeds outgoing Chair Nefertiti Long, brings extensive experience in philanthropy, government, and community advocacy to this historic role.
World War II Veteran Awarded High School Diploma
Community News
SBCSS had the distinct honor of posthumously awarding veteran Martin Minter his high school diploma during the 16th Annual Operation Recognition Veterans Diploma Project (VDP), with his family in attendance to share in the moment.
Marvin served in the U.S. Army during World War II from 1943-1945. During his time in the military, Marvin
served as a member of the Third Army under General Patton, working as a Truck Driver Light. Throughout his time in the service, he supported the logistics operation, the Red Ball Express, supplying resources to Allied forces after the primary D-Day landing.
At the ceremony held on Dec. 16, Marvin's daughter, former Assemblywoman Cheryl Brown, accepted a diploma, medal and keepsake on her father's behalf.
This impactful project is conducted in partnership with
the San Bernardino County Department of Veterans Affairs. VDP provides an opportunity to issue high school diplomas to veterans whose high school education was interrupted due to military service during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and to individuals who were interned in a Japanese American relocation camp.
Since the program’s inception in 2009, 300 diplomas have been presented to eligible veterans.
PHOTO SBCSS
Former Assemblywoman Cheryl Brown accepts her father Marvin Minter's high school diploma, honoring his service during World War II under General Patton.
PHOTO SBCSS
San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools and Veterans Affairs representatives join Marvin Minter's family to commemorate his posthumous high school diploma during the 16th Annual Operation Recognition ceremony.
on this not ce of sa e may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code The law requires that nformation about trustee sa e postponements be made ava lable to you and to the pub ic as a courtesy to those not present at the sale If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed and if applicable the rescheduled t me and date for the sale of th s property you may call 866-684-2727 or v sit the website www serv ce inkasap com, using the fi e number assigned to this case 24-229785 Informat on about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur c ose n t me to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected n the telephone nformat on or on the Internet Web s te The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale NOTICE TO TENANT(S): Effect ve January 1 2021 you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Californ a Civi Code Section 2924m If you are an "elig ble tenant buyer you can purchase the property f you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction If you are an e ig ble b dder, you may be able to purchase the property f you exceed the last and h ghest bid p aced at the trustee auct on There are three steps to exerc sing th s right of purchase F rst 48-hours after the date of the trustee sale you can cal 866-684-2727 or visit the w e b s i t e w w w s e i w i c e l i n k a s a p c o m using the file number assigned to this case 24-229785 to find the date on which the trustee s sale was held the amount of the ast and h ghest bid and the address of the trustee Second, you must send a wr tten not ce of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives t no more than 15-days after the trustee s sale Th rd you must submit a bid so that the trustee rece ves t no more than 45-days after the trustee s sale If you th nk you may qual fy as an "eligib e tenant buyer" or "e igib e bidder you shou d consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional mmediately for advice regardng this potential right to purchase Date: 1/3/2025 Robertson, Anschutz, Schne d and Crane LLP By: Mar sol Nagata Esq Author zed Signatory 1 League #62700 Irvine CA 92602 Phone: 858997-1304 SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT www servicel nkasap com FOR AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 866-684-2727 The above-named trustee may be act ng as a debt co lector attempting to collect a debt Any nformat on obtained may be used for that purpose CA DPFI Debt Collection License # 11461-99; NMLS ID 2591653 To the extent your original obligation was discharged or is subject to an automat c stay of bankruptcy under T tle 11 of the Un ted States Code, this not ce is for comp iance and/or nformational purposes only and does not constitute an attempt to collect a debt or to impose
T S No 127413-CA APN: 0164-561-26-0-000 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE S SALE IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 11/14/2006 UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER On 3/4/2025 at 1:00 PM CLEAR RECON CORP as duly appointed trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 11/21/2006 as Instrument No 2006-0791920 of Official Records n the office of the County Recorder of San Bernardino County State of CALIFORNIA executed by: JOSE FLORES A MARRIED MAN WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE; NEAR THE FRONT STEPS LEADING UP TO THE CITY OF CHINO CIVIC CENTER 13220 CENTRAL AVE CHINO CA 91710 all r ght title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust n the property s tuated in said County and State described as: MORE ACCURATELY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST The street address and other common designat on if any of the real property descr bed above s purported to be: 1147 BRONZE STAR CT, COLTON, CA 92324 The undersigned Trustee discla ms any l abil ty for any ncorrectness of the street address and other common designat on if any, shown here n Said sale will be he d but without covenant or warranty express or mp ied regarding title possession cond t on or encumbrances, including fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust to pay the remaining princ pal sums of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be so d and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the init al publication of the Not ce of Sa e is: $212 058 60 If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder s so e and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Defau t and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Elect on to Sell The unders gned or its predecessor caused sa d Notice of Defau t and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property s located NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are cons dering bidd ng on this property l en, you shou d understand that there are risks involved in b dding at a trustee auct on You will be bidding on a l en not on the property itse f Placing the highest
the public,
a courtesy to those not present at the sale If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been
poned, and, if appl
the rescheduled time and date for the sale of
s
you may
(855) 313-3319 or
this Internet website w w w c e a r r e c o n c o r p c o m , us ng the file number ass gned to this case 127413-CA Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sa e may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web s te The best way to ver fy postponement information is to attend the scheduled sa e NOTICE TO TENANT: Effective January 1 2021 you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of
Colton Man Arrested: John Anthony Ayala Accused of Sexual Relationship with 13-year-old Girl
By Manny Sandoval
A39-year-old Colton man was arrested after authorities say he stalked and sent inappropriate text messages to a 13-year-old girl, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. The suspect, identified as John Anthony Ayala, faces charges of PC646.9 (Stalking) and PC647.6 (Annoying/Molesting a Minor).
Deputies from the Highland Sheriff’s Station began investigating Ayala on Dec. 20, 2024, following reports that he had followed the victim and appeared at places he knew she would be. Ayala, who is a selfemployed training coach and previously worked at Inland Peak Performance and F1 Training in San Bernardino, is accused of sending the victim inappropriate text messages before confronting her in person.
Highland deputies and detectives executed a search warrant at Ayala’s Colton residence, seizing multiple electronic devices. He was subsequently booked into the Central Detention Center.
“We believe there may be additional victims,” Deputy T. Houn said in a statement, urging anyone with information to come forward.
A photo of Ayala has been released by authorities in hopes of identifying any other potential victims. Anyone with information is asked to call Deputy T. Houn at the Highland Sheriff’s Station at (909) 425-9793. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact the WeTip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or visit www.wetip.com.
In response to the allegations, Inland Peak Performance and Wellness issued a statement clarifying Ayala’s limited affiliation with their organization, “At Inland Peak Performance and Wellness, the safety and well-being of our athletes and their families are of the utmost importance. Recent allegations involving former independent instructor John Anthony Ayala have come to light, and we want to address these concerns directly and transparently. We want to clarify that John Anthony Ayala parted ways with Inland Peak Performance and
Early Morning Fire Destroys Moose Lodge in Mentone
Community News
At 5:45 AM, on January 8th, San Bernardino County Fire responded to a reported structure fire in the 2100 block of Mentone Boulevard in the community of Mentone.
The first engine arrived to find a well involved, medium sized commercial building that operates as the local Moose Lodge. Gusty Santa Ana winds were carrying embers into the adjacent community creating a threat to the nearby homes.
through the lodge and forced firefighters to transition to a defensive attack.
The fire was brought under control 90 minutes after arrival. Firefighters were instrumental in preventing the ignition of nearby residences. The Moose Lodge is a total loss. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported.
Wellness between August and September. His departure was due to reasons entirely unrelated to the allegations now being discussed. Furthermore, all timelines and allegations indicate that the events in question occurred after John’s limited time with our organization.”
“It is important to emphasize that John Anthony Ayala is in no way, shape, or form affiliated with Inland Peak Performance and Wellness or our partners, holds ZERO ownership and never did despite what we verbalized to the community. We remain fully committed to assisting in any way possible to bring resolution and clarity to this unfortunate situation. Our hearts go out to all affected individuals, and we stand ready to support any investigative processes.”
Authorities continue to investigate and ask the public to remain vigilant. Anyone with further information regarding Ayala or related incidents is encouraged to contact the Highland Sheriff’s Station.
The incident was balanced to a second alarm response. Firefighters mounted an aggressive interior attack while additional resources patrolled the neighborhoods monitoring the ember cast. Unfortunately, the high winds carried the fire rapidly
Eleven engines, three truck companies, one hand crew and three chief officers totaling seventy personnel were assigned to the incident. County Fire was assisted by Redlands Fire Department and Cal Fire - San Bernardino Unit.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation through County Fire’s Office of the Fire Marshal.
PHOTO SBSD
John Anthony Ayala is facing charges of PC646.9 (Stalking) and PC647.6 (Annoying/Molesting a Minor).
PHOTO SBCOFD
Firefighters contain Mentone structure fire amid high winds, protecting nearby homes; no injuries reported.
