Colton residents have until March 15, 2025, to choose the size of their new waste carts as part of the city’s transition to a state-mandated threebin system—or they will automatically receive larger 96-gallon carts, city officials warned at the Feb. 18 council meeting.
CR&R, the city’s waste hauler, mailed out postcards last week asking residents to select either 64-gallon or 96-gallon bins for trash, recycling, and organic waste. The new system, required under California Senate Bill 1383, will take effect on Sept. 1, 2025.
“I want to let you know we sent out a
mailer last week, and every resident will receive it,” said Beline Coderro of CR&R. “Residents will be able to choose between 96-gallon carts and 64-gallon cart lids. You have the option to choose one or the other by filling out the requested information.”
Residents can return the prepaid postcard
By Dr. Luis S. González, Contributing Writer
The Colton City Council honored Manna Donuts, a longstanding business in the community, during its Feb. 18 meeting, presenting owners Ngi Ly and Jennifer Ly with a "Business Focus" Recognition Award for their decades of success and service.
Located in the Canyon Bluffs Plaza on Washington Street, Manna Donuts has been a fixture of Colton’s east-side business community for 35 years. The shop first opened in 1990 and has since become a go-to destination for locals and travelers alike.
Originally from Cambodia, Ngi and Jennifer Ly moved to Vietnam before immigrating separately to the United States. Ngi arrived in Loma Linda in 1989, while Jennifer initially settled in Richmond, near San Francisco, before moving to Southern California to live with her brother. The couple reconnected through mutual acquaintances, married in 1990, and soon sought a business opportunity to support their growing family.
When the previous owner of Mrs. Cooley Donuts decided to sell her store, the Lys seized the opportunity. Inspired by its biblical meaning, Ngi renamed the shop "Manna Donuts" to symbolize nourishment and generosity.
Since then, Manna Donuts has built a reputation for quality, friendly service, and a wide selection of fresh donuts.
Customers often stop by in the early morning to see Ngi crafting his latest creations.
The family-operated business ensures that someone is always on-site, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for patrons.
In recognizing Manna Donuts, the City Council commended the Lys for their contributions to the local economy and their commitment to providing exceptional service to the community.
“Manna Donuts has been a cornerstone of our city’s business community,” said Council Member Dr. Luis S. González, who presented the award.
“Their hard work and dedication have made a lasting impact, and we are grateful for
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
A set of waste carts sits outside a residence as part of the transition to a state-mandated three-bin system for trash, recycling, and organic waste collection.
PHOTO DR. G
Left to right: Council Member Dr.G, Ngi Ly and Jennifer Ly, owners of Manna Donuts.
Waste Carts (cont.)
- or complete the form online at this link. “We are trying to get the word out,” Coderro added. “With any questions, contact me or our customer service line at (909) 370-3377.”
Councilmember Kelly Chastain urged residents to act quickly. “I know the mailers have a QR code on them–please be sure to get them in so the city
Business (cont.)
can get the carts out as soon as possible,” she said. “Thank you to CR&R for their work on this.”
In addition to the waste cart deadline, the council also recognized the 130th anniversary of the city’s Public Utilities Department. Milford Harrison, president of the San Bernardino Valley Municipal Water Board, presented a proclamation honoring the milestone.
- their continued presence in Colton.”
With 35 years in business, the Lys expressed
“This is an incredible accomplishment, and everyone at the water district is very proud,” Harrison said.
Residents who do not submit their selection by March 15 will automatically receive a set of three 96-gallon carts when deliveries begin in September.
By Erlinda Armendariz, Contributing Writer
Tgratitude for the support they have received and look forward to serving the community for years to come.
San Bernardino Appoints Third City Manager in a Year, Loses Rochelle Clayton to Barstow, Taps Retired Brea Leader
By Manny Sandoval
Ashley, the largest furniture retailer in North America, partnered with HeartWorks this past weekend to raise awareness for congenital heart defects (CHD) and support groundbreaking medical research.
In yet another shift in city leadership, the San Bernardino City Council has appointed William “Bill” Gallardo as interim city manager, marking the city’s 17th city manager in 16 years–and the third in a year. The move comes just days after former acting city manager Rochelle Clayton was officially named the new city manager of Barstow.
During the Feb. 19 City Council meeting, Mayor Helen Tran acknowledged Clayton’s departure, calling it a significant loss for San Bernardino but a gain for Barstow. “I got news that our former acting city manager has been appointed as City Manager to the City of Barstow. It’s a loss for us, but a huge gain for Barstow. Thank you for all of your service,” said Tran. Clayton was present in the audience with her family.
Councilmember Dr. Treasure Ortiz echoed that sentiment. “I would like to thank Clayton for her service and time. It’s not always easy, and I appreciate everyone that steps up to the plate for the city of San Bernardino. I know your affected reach is going to be long-lasting in the city, and the level of integrity and camaraderie that you bring is going to be hard to replace. I wish you the best of luck; we were lucky to have you.”
Clayton, who has more than 30 years of government experience, was officially named city manager of Barstow after a unanimous City Council vote there on Feb. 18. The city of Barstow issued a statement highlighting her extensive leadership background, including managing a $200 million budget as interim city manager of San Bernardino, leading homelessness policy negotiations, and overseeing infrastructure projects.
“It’s exciting to be a part of moving the city forward,” Clayton said in a statement. “Having grown up riding my bike all over Barstow as a kid, it is beyond rewarding to return and lead this community into its next chapter!”
New Leadership in San Bernardino
Following Clayton’s departure, the San Bernardino City Council voted unanimously on Feb. 21 to appoint Gallardo as interim city manager. Gallardo, who retired in December 2024 as city manager of Brea after a 35-year career, stepped out of retirement just two months later to serve San Bernardino temporarily.
“Bringing Bill Gallardo on board will ensure a smooth transition while the Council and I take the next steps to find our next City Manager,” said Mayor Tran.
Gallardo’s extensive experience in municipal leadership includes serving as Brea’s city manager from 2015 to 2024, as well as holding positions such as assistant city manager, finance director, and revenue manager. He holds a business degree from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.
During the Feb. 21 special meeting, former council member Kim Calvin expressed concerns about the city’s frequent turnover in leadership. “I cannot move forward without stating how disappointing it is for San Bernardino to be going through three city managers in the past year,” said Calvin. “It is unfortunate that when we do have a good city manager working for us and they tell us exactly what we need to hear to move forward–we have council members who like to make it personal and disagree.”
Calvin further alleged that Councilmember Fred Shorett has repeatedly undermined city managers by insisting their role is simply to “keep the lights on.” “At least four times during my tenure, Councilmember Shorett has said that,” said Calvin. “He said it to interim acting city manager Tanya Romo as well. We need to let the interim or acting city managers do their jobs.”
Despite these concerns, Calvin welcomed Gallardo to the position. “I’ve heard some good things about you, and any city that would keep you for 35 years must be due to the fact that you’re doing great things there. We look forward to that, assuming that you’re allowed to do your job.”
Community member Christian Shaugnessy also spoke at the meeting, offering words of encouragement. “Mr. Gallardo, I know San Bernardino can be a very spicy city. You may have heard a great deal about us, but we are a city with a lot of love. I welcome you to the City of San Bernardino and I wish you very well here.”
Gallardo expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, “Thank you for the opportunity of being your interim city manager. As you know, I retired from Brea in December, and this opportunity came up very quickly. I checked with my Brea family, and they encouraged me to be here.
It’s my way of giving back to this community—I am a resident. I take this interim role with enthusiasm and with purpose. My commitment to you all is I will work diligently to become a valuable resource to the city, council, staff and just as importantly, to maintain crucial relationships with the agencies you deal with.”
Gallardo introduced his wife, Karina, and children, Nick, Veronica, and Rene, during the special meeting.
Gallardo’s salary as interim city manager will be up to $154,051 annually.
hree of Colton High School's juniors took the top honors at today's Colton Rotary Club’s 4Way Speech Contest, held at the CJUSD District Office. Aubree Gonzales took top honors for her speech about the importance of recognizing and helping teens cope with anxiety disorder. Allyson Mejia took second place, and Diana Ruvalcaba took third place.
The Rotary Club of Colton's speech competition is an annual event. Students from CJUSD’s high schools are invited to compete for cash prizes. First place takes home $150, second $100, and third $50. The first-place winner then advances to the district level, where they compete against other winners from local cities in the district. “I was so happy, I almost cried,” said Gonzales. “I’m really excited to go to the next round.”
Allyson Mejia, who spoke on the importance of respecting homosexual rights, said, “My past inspired me to write my speech. When Ms. Leyva told us the topic, I just did something I could be passionate about.” Lucy Leyva is the speech advisor for Colton High School. She has been working with her students for the last few weeks and had them audition for a spot on the team. Seven students qualified out of 12. Cherlin Cruz, Selena Fernandez, Jessica Gudiel, and Karol Vasquez rounded out the rest of the team.
“The Rotary Club is a great organization for students to practice their public speaking,” Leyva shared. “They get to learn all about the four-way test, which will help guide their decision-making in the future. Plus, they get to practice their
rhetorical skills.”
The four-way speech test is the Rotary Club’s guiding principles. In their speeches, students are asked to measure their ideas by this test, which asks four questions: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? And will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Every year, Rotary districts around the world sponsor high school 4-Way Test Speech Contests for high school students. The purpose of the student’s speech is to persuade others while applying the principles of the Rotary 4-Way Test to an ethical issue, dilemma, or problem. The goal is for students to make the world a better place, to practice the virtues of critical thinking and ethical decision-making, to develop public speaking and leadership skills, and to positively influence and inspire others through their speeches. Contestants’ speeches must be original; they must be 5 to 8 minutes in length, and the Rotary 4-Way Test must be integrated throughout the speech and not reserved for concluding statements only.
Aubree Gonzales will be representing Colton Rotary Club at the district level on March 8th at Our Savior's Lutheran Church. Located at 1320 West Williams Street in Banning, CA, starting at 8:15 a.m. There will be ten winners with prizes ranging from $200 to $700.
“The Rotary Club of Colton would love to have more students from the CJUSD high schools participate in next year’s competition,” Erlinda Armendariz, president of the Colton Rotary, said.
Public Safety
Fatal Hit & Run Traffic Collision in Rialto
By Rialto PD
On Friday, February 21, 2025, at 8:17 p.m., the Rialto Police Department Communications Center received a report of a single-vehicle traffic collision. Officers arrived on the scene at approximately 8:20 p.m.
The Rialto Fire Department personnel administered life-saving measures to the passenger, an adult female, Rachel Martin, a 33-year-old resident of Rialto, who sustained life-threatening injuries. Martin was pronounced deceased at the scene at 8:25 p.m.
The driver, who fled following the collision, was apprehended and identified as Joshua Carde-
nas, a 28-year-old male resident of Rialto who suffered only minor injuries. The initial investigation indicates that Cardenas was driving a white 2021 Ford Mustang eastbound on Merrill Ave at over 85 mph.
Cardenas continued through the intersection at Cactus Ave and lost control of his vehicle. Cardenas collided with multiple trees and came to rest in the westbound lanes. He fled the location and was positively identified by witnesses.
The investigation is ongoing, but there is evidence that Cardenas was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision, and speed is believed to be a factor.
Joshua Cardenas was booked
into a San Bernardino County jail for Penal Code 191.5(a)Gross Vehicular Manslaughter while intoxicated with a $100,000 bail.
The Rialto Police Department Major Accident Investigation Team responded to the scene and is conducting the investigation.
Anyone who may have information about this incident can contact Traffic Sergeant Dan Smith at (909) 644-6025.
Witnesses can also anonymously report information through WeTip at (800) 7827463, reference case #932502122.
San Bernardino County Fire Promotes Four Battalion Chiefs, Fourteen Captains to Strengthen Emergency Response
Community News
The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (County Fire) is proud to announce the promotion of four new battalion chiefs and fourteen new captains, reinforcing its commitment to public safety and enhancing emergency response capabilities across the county.
These leadership appointments will ensure stronger fire protection, improved incident management, and greater resilience in the face of increasing demands on the fire service.
San Bernardino County spans urban, mountain and desert regions. These promotions are essential to meeting the needs
of residents and visitors alike.
The newly promoted battalion chiefs and captains will take on key leadership roles across the county, strengthening frontline operations and providing strategic oversight in times of crisis.
“The safety of our communities depends on strong leadership and well-trained personnel,” said County Fire Chief Dan Munsey. “These highly qualified men and women represent the best of County Fire. These promotions are a part of the district’s ongoing investment in the future of San Bernardino County Fire.”
The following individuals were successful in the promotion process:
Battalion Chief:
Chris Bowden
Kyle Hauducoeur
Greg Soria
Tony Villarino
Captain:
Brian Bradley
Cliff Brackin
Ryan Gilford
Benjamin Gradias
Jeremiah Johnson
Dennis Jones
Landen Markegard
John Marini
Sheldon Osekowsky
Brent Sargenti
Eric Sherwin
Michelle Smith
Michael Stachowicz
Randy Wormdahl
SBPD Holding DUI Checkpoint on Feb. 28
By San Bernardino PD
On Friday, February 28, 2025, the San Bernardino Police Department will conduct a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Checkpoint from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. at an undisclosed location. DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected im-
paired drivers off the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” said Sgt. Mike Siems. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”
The San Bernardino Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-thecounter drugs may interfere
with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
Drivers charged with a firsttime DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Learning How Heart Disease Can Differ in Women Can Save Lives
By: Dr. Padmini Vardarajan, Redlands Community Hospital
February is American Heart Month and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women and during pregnancies in the United States according to the National Institute of Health (NIH). One in three women in the United States have some form of a CVD.
Even though up to 90% of women have at least one cardiovascular risk factor, there remains a major gap in awareness, recognition, and appropriate management of CVD risk. It is known that gender-specific effects such as lower levels of estrogen can increase cardiovascular risks in younger women.
For many years, what we knew about CVD and heart attacks was based upon clinical trials that largely studied the experiences of men. In recent years, women have been included in more studies which has shed light on how they experience heart conditions and heart attacks differently.
Being informed on how heart conditions affect women differently is essential in understanding CVD risk factors, symptoms, prevention and treatment. Here’s some main differences to be aware of:
For heart attacks symptoms, women may experience symptoms beyond the classic chest
pain, such as nausea, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, upper back or jaw pain, and stomach discomfort.
Women are more likely to have "silent" heart attacks, meaning they may not recognize the signs or may experience milder symptoms that are mistaken for stress, indigestion or the flu. Instead of large, obstructive blockages in major arteries as commonly seen in men’s, women often develop microvascular disease, where smaller arteries are affected, making it harder to detect blockages with standard tests.
Estrogen provides some protection against heart disease before menopause, but after menopause, the risk increases sharply, and symptoms may change due to fluctuating hormone levels.
When I speak to women in my medical practice and in the community, I urge them to stay on top of their annual health visit and lab work. These annual health screenings are vital to understanding the condition of your health. Working with your physician, you can create a plan to prevent and manage health conditions that can put you at risk for heart disease, stroke or heart attack. When we are aware of how CVD affects women differently, we can work together to live longer and healthier.
Dr. Padmini Vardarajan is a cardiologist, medical director of cardiology services at Redlands Community Hospital.
PHOTO RCH
Dr. Vardarajan at Redlands Community Hospital.
Nearly 500 Operators Issued Violation Notices for Non-compliance of Warehouse Rule, AQMD says
San Bernardino Valley and Regional Partners Celebrate Completion of Santa Ana River Enhanced Recharge Project
Community News
San Bernardino Valley, in partnership with Western Water, City of Riverside Public Utilities, and San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District, proudly marked the completion of the Santa Ana River Enhanced Recharge Phase 1-B Project with a ribboncutting and dedication ceremony today.
The $55 million infrastructure investment made by local water agencies significantly enhances regional water supply resilience by more than doubling local groundwater recharge capacity.
“This project is a shining example of what regional collaboration can accomplish,” said T. Milford Harrison, Board President of San Bernardino Valley. “By investing in our local water supply with innovative solutions, we are making our region more resilient to drought while securing reliable water for our grandchildren and great grandchildren.”
The Santa Ana River Enhanced Recharge Project will allow up to 80,000 acre-feet of stormwater per year to be captured and stored in the local aquifer, creating a critical supply of groundwater for future
drought years. The project includes 20 new recharge basins, improved flood control structures, and inter-basin conveyance infrastructure, ensuring local water resources are managed efficiently.
In addition to improving water supply reliability, the project took an innovative approach to environmental compliance.
To secure key state and federal permits, areas between the recharge basins will be restored and preserved for endangered species habitat, like the San Bernardino kangaroo rat and Least Bell’s vireo.
“This site has long been a critical part of our watershed, especially the Santa Ana River alluvial fan,” Heather Dyer, CEO/ General Manager for San Bernardino Valley. “By leveraging this land for both water storage and ecosystem restoration, we are ensuring that both our human communities and the native ecosystems benefit for generations to come.”
The Santa Ana River Enhanced Recharge Project ensures that more local water is captured during wet years and stored underground for future drought conditions— a key strategy in preparing Southern California for long-term water challenges.
By Anthony Victoria
Since 2023, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) has issued 475 violations to operators for noncompliance with its warehouse Indirect Source Rule that’s aimed at reducing pollution from warehouses in the Inland Empire and across Southern California.
Many of these violations are concentrated in cities like Ontario and Fontana, which have over 40 violations according to AQMD’s data. Other areas, including Jurupa Valley, Chino and Rialto, have also become hotspots for violations.
Officially known as the Warehouse Actions and Investments to Reduce Emissions (WAIRE) program, the rule targets facilities larger than 100,000 square feet and incentivizes warehouse operators to reduce emissions through a points system. Operators earn points by using electric vehicles and installing solar panels to curb pollution from trucks and mobile equipment used in warehouse operations.
AQMD reports that many operators have come into compliance, but also told KVCR and The Frontline Observer that violators could face fines. The agency emphasized that its first efforts will focus on reaching settlements that can include penalties or environmental projects. If no agreement is reached, cases may go to court. So far, AQMD says no repeat offenders have been identified.
Environmental advocates are concerned the system still allows operators to get away with addressing warehouse pollution by opting to pay fines, instead of working to implement technology to reduce emissions.
“This does very little to ensure protections of our most vulnerable communi-
ties,” said Ana Gonzalez, the executive director of the Jurupa Valley-based Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ).
Gonzalez believes stronger enforcement is crucial for the rule’s effectiveness. She argues that penalties alone aren’t enough to drive meaningful change people want to see.
“For example, if you do not comply with the second warning, your operations need to be shut down until you comply with a plan to keep people safe,” Gonzalez said. “It should be just like any other code compliance consequence when businesses violate city codes.”
Paul Granillo, with the Inland Empire Economic Partnership (IEEP), says growing compliance shows that operators are adapting to the warehouse rule. However, he remains concerned about the availability of clean trucks and equipment and the potential impact of regulation on local businesses and the economy.
“We’re all being asked to run a marathon, but only a few of us are really in shape to run a marathon,” said Granillo. “So, we need to be realistic about how we go about making sure that we have as clean air as we deserve, but also that we don't overburden businesses and people.”
The Indirect Source Rule for warehouses was adopted in 2021 after years of discussion and planning by AQMD. Last August, AQMD also adopted an indirect source rule for railyards and is currently considering a voluntary-based rule for the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles.
This story was originally published through KVCR Public Media.
PHOTO SBVMWD
Officials from San Bernardino Valley, Western Water, City of Riverside Public Utilities, and San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District celebrate the completion of the $55 million Santa Ana River Enhanced Recharge Phase 1-B Project, significantly boosting local groundwater recharge capacity.
PHOTO MATTHEW ORNELAS
A row of warehouses along California Street near Almond Avenue in Redlands.
Highland Costco Gas Station Now Open, Offering Kirkland Fuel at $4.09
By Manny Sandoval
Costco’s highly anticipated gas station in Highland officially opened to the public on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, marking a major addition to the city’s expanding commercial district.
The 30-plus-pump station, located at 27890 Greenspot Rd., offers Kirkland Signature gasoline at $4.09 per gallon for regular and $4.49 for premium as of Friday.
With its larger fueling area and parking lot, the Highland location may alleviate congestion at the San Bernardino Costco, where long lines and heavy traf-
per Gallon
fic have become the norm. However, some customers have noted that while the lot is more spacious, the entrance and exit points appear tighter than expected.
The gas station is part of the new Highland Costco development (which was publicly announced in September 2023), which spans 19.74 acres within the Greenspot Village & Marketplace.
The retail warehouse is set to open on Saturday, March 8, 2025, bringing additional shopping options to the region.
Costco is still hiring for the location, with applications available at Costco Careers.
The store’s debut comes as Costco remains in the national spotlight for its decision to uphold its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, a move that has sparked both praise and criticism in recent weeks.
As operations ramp up in Highland, the new station is poised to become a key fueling destination for residents and commuters, offering Costco’s competitive gas prices in a rapidly growing commercial hub—just weeks ahead of the store’s grand opening on March 8.
Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries Returns This Spring With Four New Southern California Stores
Community News
Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries (PNSBG) is making a highly anticipated debut to Southern California this spring. After nearly a decade since its acquisition by Big Lots, the iconic discount store Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains is being revived under new ownership and a refreshed concept, Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries.
Led by President and Founder Mark J. Miller (former CEO of the original Pic ‘N’ Save), along with a team of investors, PNSBG is bringing a unique, elevated shopping experience to familiar locations once occupied by 99Cent Only Stores.
The newly reimagined Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries will continue its legacy of offering quality, brand-name products at unbeatable prices.
In addition to its core selection of home goods, general merchandise, and treasure hunt closeouts, the store will also feature a variety of produce including fresh milk, eggs, deli products, and groceries.
This expanded range of offerings ensures that Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries can meet all of its customers’ shopping needs in one convenient location.
“While we’re bringing back the same commitment to unbeatable bargains, we’re also offering a wider variety of products that will make Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries a true one-stop shop for everyday essentials,” said Mark J. Miller, President and Founder. “From
treasure hunt to fresh food, we’re focused on creating community stores that are affordable, convenient and fun to shop.”
In keeping with the tradition of 99Cent Only Stores, Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries is dedicated to delivering exceptional service by empowering employees and fostering strong community relationships.
Each location is carefully designed with the local community in mind, ensuring that every store reflects its unique culture and needs.
In the coming months, four new Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries locations will open throughout Southern California, with locations set to open at:
34660 Monterey Ave., Palm Desert, CA 92211
975 S E St., San Bernardino, CA 92408
9255 Sierra Ave., Fontana, CA 93335
7860 Norwalk Blvd., Whittier, CA 90606
To enhance the shopping experience, Pic ‘N’ Save Bargains & Groceries is offering a free Loyalty Program that rewards customers with points for every purchase. These points can be redeemed for in-store discounts and special offers throughout the year.
Stay up to date with store openings, promotions, and events by following @pnsbargains on Instagram and Facebook.
PHOTOS MANNY SANDOVAL
Drivers fuel up at the newly opened Costco gas station in Highland at 10:20 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 21, 2025.
