Homecoming has been the theme of the season, with Colton football taking the field last week for their third homecoming game in a row. After wrecking Fontana’s and celebrating a victory on their own field, Colton football wasn’t done. On Friday, they traveled to Bloomington High and dominated the Bruins on their homecoming night, 48-28.
After a rough start to the game, quarter-
By Manny Sandoval
In a unanimous vote, the Colton City Council approved significant revisions to the city’s personnel rules and regulations, marking the first update to these guidelines in nearly a quartercentury.
Ordinance O-16-24 and Resolution R104-24 replace outdated policies, originally adopted in 2000, with modernized standards that better align with current laws and organizational needs.
The updated regulations were necessary to maintain compliance with employment law and address changes in municipal operations. "These rules hadn't been touched since 2000," said Tom Cody, Colton’s Human Resources Director, during the meeting. "This update ensures compliance with current legal standards, simplifies future revisions, and removes outdated or conflicting policies."
One key revision is the removal of seven ordinances and 34 resolutions that were embedded in the old guidelines, including
back Koa Regalado sparked the offense by rushing for his first touchdown of the night in the first quarter. Then special teams kickoff returner Jonathan Quiroz stunned the Bloomington crowd with an 85 yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
From there, the two teams traded touchdowns, but by the half, Colton had the lead 33-16.
“Bloomington had a couple big plays but it’s expected, and defensively they did a phenomenal job,” head coach Ray
Rodriguez said. After putting up 54 against Arroyo Valley, Colton continued getting the ball in the end zone. Regalado was unstoppable, passing for 203 yards and rushing for 76 yards. The Bruins, however, did manage to get to him for two sacks.
“Koa is going to make plays, he’s a baller,” Rodriguez says, but he was quick to praise the rest of the offense. “It’s kinda about putting the other guys in the right position for them to capitalize as well.”
Ordinance No. 1122 and Ordinance No. O-25-88, which had been in place for decades.
While the specific functions of these repealed ordinances were not detailed during the meeting, Cody emphasized that their removal was necessary to streamline the city’s personnel regulations. "We’ve removed outdated ordinances that no longer align with current laws, making it easier to update the rules going forward," Cody explained.
Dr. G raised concerns during the session, asking for clarification about the frequency of future updates, pointing out that these rules had not been reviewed in nearly 25 years. "It’s essential we establish a routine review process to avoid falling behind like this again," Dr. G commented. Cody responded that moving forward, the city should aim to review and update these regulations every five years.
Councilmember Kelly Chastain sought further details on the specific changes beyond eliminating redundant information. Cody outlined several key revisions,
including the removal of conflicting policies with employee association agreements (MOUs).
He emphasized that these MOUs take precedence, so the new rules now refer readers to the MOUs for the most up-todate policies. "We wanted to create a more flexible system that can be updated without major overhauls each time laws change," he explained.
The comprehensive update follows more than a year of collaboration between the city’s management team and its nine employee associations, which were given an opportunity to review and comment on the proposed changes before the council vote. "It was important to involve all stakeholders to ensure that these regulations are practical and beneficial to both management and employees," Cody added.
The council's approval of Ordinance O16-24 and Resolution R-104-24 positions Colton to efficiently manage personnel matters while adapting to legal and operational changes in the future.
Yellowjackets cont. next pg.
PHOTO JOSEPHINE RAMOS/PEPPER BOUGH
Colton Football walking into the home of the Bruins with confidence and ready to dominate on their field.
Yellowjackets (cont.)
Kyle Mejia showed up big against Bloomingtons, receiving for 50 yards, two touchdowns and one two-point conversion. Mejia was called to step up and he showed out, according to Rodriguez.
Mejia was not the only Yellowjacket to find the end zone. Kalvin Leon also went for 68 yards and two touchdowns and Michael Amador went for 27 yards and a touchdown.
With this victory, Colton is now tied for first place in the Skyline league with Carter High. Both teams will face off against each other this Friday at Memorial Stadium, with the winner to be crowned Skyline league champion. Game time is 7 p.m. Fans in attendance are asked to wear pink to the game as part of Colton High’s annual “Pink Out” event in coordination with October Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Skyline League Notes
Carter (5-2 overall, 3-0 Skyline) def. Fontana () 34-27
QB Ryder Carson threw for 134 yards and two touchdowns as the Lions remained undefeated in Skyline League play. The Carter defense slowed down the Steelers’ running attack, holding Fontana to 110 yards total. This keeps the Lions tied for first place with the Yellowjackets in the Skyline league.
Notre Dame puts its most points on the board this season against Arroyo Valley, but it isn’t enough to secure their first victory of the season.
*Originally published in Colton High School’s Pepper Bough student news. IECN has rights for republishing.
San Bernardino Renters Call for Tenant Rights Amid Housing Crisis, Demand Community Benefits for Downtown Redevelopment
By Manny Sandoval
The worsening housing crisis in San Bernardino has sparked a strong response from local tenant unions, housing advocates, and community organizations, culminating in a community-wide event aimed at addressing renters’ concerns and advocating for tenant rights.
Hosted by Congregations Organized for Prophetic Engagement (C.O.P.E.), a Block Party on October 19th brought together several key housing and social justice organizations—including Just San Bernardino, Time for Change Foundation, Inland Equity Community Land Trust (IECLT), and IE Tenants Union—to offer resources and support for those affected by the housing crisis.
The event provided a platform for local advocates to discuss pressing issues such as skyrocketing rents, poor living conditions, and the neglect many renters face. Through a collective voice, attendees urged city officials to prioritize affordable housing and tenant rights.
Housing Advocates Speak Out Against Rent Increases
Lorena Barbosa, a housing advocate for the Time for Change Foundation, was among the leaders who spoke at the event, highlighting the difficulties many tenants in San Bernardino face as rents continue to rise at alarming rates. Barbosa described an environment where tenants live with "holes in roofs, infestations, no hot water, no heat," while some landlords raise rents up to three times in a single year, resulting in deteriorating apartment complexes with few tenants remaining.
“The reality is, some landlords don’t care about the conditions their tenants are living in,” Barbosa said. “They’re hiking up rents while leaving buildings to fall into disrepair. But if we can put a cap on rent increases and hold these landlords account-
able, we can make a difference.”
Barbosa believes that collective action is the key to change.
“It’s when we come together as a community that our voices are truly heard. When tenants speak up, especially those who are undocumented and afraid of retaliation, we can make real change,” she added.
Undocumented renters, she emphasized, are among the most vulnerable, often staying silent out of fear that speaking up could result in retaliation or even deportation. Barbosa’s message to the community was clear: unity and collective action are the only way forward.
Inland Equity Community Land Trust Fights for Tenant Rights
Deborah Harmon, representing the Inland Equity Community Land Trust (IECLT), shared her personal experience of housing instability, which inspired her to take action. Harmon recounted her experience as a renter at Day Park Apartments in San Bernardino, where she faced neglect and poor treatment by her landlord.
“We didn’t have hot water, there were roaches, and basic maintenance was ignored,” Harmon explained. “But what pushed us to form a tenant union was the lack of knowledge about our rights. We were tired of being taken advantage of.”
Harmon emphasized that tenant unions are critical in ensuring landlords provide basic living essentials like hot water, electricity, and safe conditions. Inland Equity Community Land Trust has since expanded its reach, establishing tenant unions in Riverside, Hemet, Redlands, Ontario, and San Bernardino, with the goal of empowering communities to hold landlords accountable.
“Every city should have a tenant union to ensure that landlords are being held accountable. Our tenant union
City Council Honors Serrano Nursery for 30 Years of Business Excellence
By Dr.G (Dr. Luis S González), Community Writer
On Oct. 15th, the Colton City Council recognized Andres and Marina Serrano, owners of Serrano Nursery, with a Business Focus Recognition Award for their successful contribution to the city.
at 8 a.m., ready to serve customers with a wide array of flowers, plants, trees, and decorative garden items to suit various landscaping needs.
Serrano Nursery exemplifies the impact of small businesses on the local economy and community pride. Their commitment enhances the "home-grown" quality of life in Colton, especially in the Reche Canyon area.
started with just a few of us, but now we’re growing, and we believe this is a movement that can bring change,” Harmon said.
Formed in 2020 as a project of the Inland Equity Partnership, IECLT is focused on providing affordable rental and ownership housing in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. The organization shifted its focus during the COVID-19 pandemic to assist renters in staying in their homes, advocating for rental assistance and ensuring that aid from the CARES Act reached those most in need.
Reflecting on the importance of the event, Harmon remarked, "We’re here today to come together to bring resources to the community that they may not know are available to them and to help lift them above their circumstances.”
Balancing the Narrative: Landlords’ Perspective and Community Response
While tenant unions and advocates have raised legitimate concerns about living conditions and rent hikes, some landlords argue that maintaining properties in low-income communities can be challenging.
Citing the adversity many renters face, landlords say that the neglect of properties is sometimes a reflection of tenants’ lack of care for their living spaces. However, advocates at the event were quick to point out that this perspective could also be seen as an excuse to avoid necessary maintenance and repairs.
“Sure, there are slumlords who don’t do the bare minimum, but there needs to be a balance,” San Bernardino Resident Marcus Lopez noted. “Landlords need to provide basic essentials like hot water and safe, livable structures, but tenants should also take pride in their living spaces and treat them like their own.”
Founded in 1993 in the Serranos' own backyard, Serrano Nursery started as a modest enterprise. Within four years, the business expanded to a fiveacre parcel at the corner of Reche Canyon and Prado Lane, where it currently operates. The nursery has become the local destination for plants, flowers, and landscaping ideas, helping many community members beautify their homes.
Over the past 30 years, the family-owned business has thrived despite challenges such as a slow start, economic downturns, and the pandemic. Andres and Marina, along with their team, consistently begin work
Residents are encouraged to visit the nursery, which offers a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere with vibrant displays. Convenient parking is available near the entrance. Serrano Nursery is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The City Council commends Andres and Marina Serrano for their dedication and significant contribution to Colton's local economy. The community looks forward to their continued success in the years to come.
PHOTO DR. G
(L to R): Dr.G, Council Member, Andres Serrano, and Marina Serrano.
Local and State Elections: The Unseen Power Shaping Our Communities
By Manny Sandoval
As election season heats up, the spotlight inevitably turns to the presidential race. The debates, rallies, and endless news coverage make it easy to forget that another set of elections—arguably just as important—is happening right in our own backyards. It's time we bring the same energy and enthusiasm to voting for our local and state officials as we do for presidential candidates.
The general public often underestimates how pivotal city council members, state assembly representatives, senators, judges, and other local officials are to the vitality of our cities, counties, and state.
These are the people who make decisions that directly affect our daily lives—from funding for schools and public safety to housing policies and infrastructure projects. They shape the communities we live in and the quality of services we receive.
Despite their significant impact, voter turnout for local and state elections remains disappointingly low. This apathy allows a small, often
Mayor
vocal minority to steer the direction of policies and initiatives that affect us all. It's easy to spot ill-informed voters during this time—they're often the loudest voices, pushing one-sided commentary without a full understanding of the issues at stake.
So, what can we do? First, recognize the power and importance of your vote at the local and state level. Set aside an hour or two to become an informed voter. Read through your voter information guide, attend local candidate forums, and engage in discussions with your community members.
For Californians, a valuable resource is CAL MATTERS, a nonpartisan organization offering detailed, jargon-free information on all of California's propositions. Their voter guide breaks down complex issues into understandable language, helping you make informed decisions: CAL MATTERS Voter Guide. Additionally, residents of San Bernardino County can utilize the Registrar of Voters' polling place lookup tool to find their designated voting locations: San Bernardino
County Polling Place Look-up Tool. Knowing where to vote is a crucial step in ensuring your voice is heard. Remember, it's our right— and frankly, our duty—to vote. And it's nobody's business who you vote for. Do it for yourself, for your family, and for your community. An informed electorate is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy.
Local and state elections may not have the glamour of a presidential race, but they are no less critical. The officials we elect to these positions have a profound impact on our everyday lives. By participating fully in these elections, we ensure that our voices are heard and that our communities reflect our shared values and priorities.
Let's not allow apathy or misinformation to dictate the future of our cities and state. This election season, let's make a collective commitment to be informed, engaged, and active participants in our democracy.
Your vote is your voice—use it wisely.
Deborah Robertson’s Leadership Transforms Rialto Into a Thriving City of Growth, Opportunity, and Innovation
By Victor Ornelas, Community Member
Rialto—our community that was once overshadowed by hardship and a reputation for crime—has transformed into a city on the rise.
Today, we’re no longer defined by past struggles but by a future brimming with growth, new jobs, and housing opportunities. At the heart of our transformation is Mayor Deborah Robertson, whose steadfast leadership has turned Rialto into a city ripe with promise and big opportunities.
In overcoming our city’s issues and reputation with crime, she made Rialto the worldclass standard in criminal justice and police accountability when she helped pioneer bodyworn cameras to change policing. Her foresight ended up influencing policing and criminal justice systems around the world.
Since that time, our mayor has helped to guide us through economic recessions and a pandemic and we’re still thriving. In fact, over the last decade the average household income has risen from $40,000 to over $80,000.
Thanks to her leadership, businesses are growing across the city spurring jobs in healthcare, education, transportation, logistics and retail.
But our city’s growth still comes with new challenges, including concerns about warehouses. Mayor Robertson is addressing these by promoting responsible development, evaluating each new project on its merits.
Under her leadership, the city has launched innovative initiatives such as the Rialto Wastewater Treatment Plant, operating through a groundbreaking public-private partnership, and the Rialto Bioenergy Facility, a pioneering effort to reduce methane emissions by converting food waste into renewable fuel.
Her vision is to harness academic expertise in water infrastructure, environmental science, and clean technologies to strengthen the Rialto workforce.
Mayor Robertson has also taken significant steps to stimulate Rialto’s economy by partnering with major retail and hospitality businesses that help create jobs and fuel local development.
Her leadership has attracted national chains and supported local entrepreneurs, resulting in the revitalization of key commercial corridors across the city. Most recently, Mayor Robertson spearheaded the expansion of the popular Renaissance Marketplace, an 80,000square foot retail and commercial center, which has brought even more businesses, manufacturing, and jobs to Rialto.
To meet the demands of Rialto’s growing job market, Mayor Robertson is actively working to secure additional market-rate and affordable housing units for residents.
Recent developments include a collection of single-family homes at River Ranch on Walker Street, a 21-unit apartment building at Evergreen Apartments on Cactus Avenue, and a 70-unit multi- family project featuring 19 buildings on 4.5 acres at Foothill and Larch.
These housing initiatives are integral to her broader strategy of fostering a resilient, future-focused economy that balances commercial growth with affordable living options, all while enhancing the quality of life for Rialto’s residents.
It's critical to continue trusting her leadership and re-elect her this November to keep our city moving forward.
*The views and opinions expressed in this Op-Ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance or opinions of Inland Empire Community News or its staff.
Public Safety
Detectives Arrest Man After Discovering Murder Victim Buried in Backyard
By Riverside PD
On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at around 7:45 p.m., Riverside Police Officers responded to a home in the 8700 block of Sylvan Drive, in the Arlanza neighborhood, following reports that a resident had not been seen or heard from for several days.
During their initial investigation, officers learned that one of the occupants had made statements claiming he killed his roommate. That occupant was detained, and a search of the property revealed a possible crime scene in the backyard.
Due to the suspicious circumstances, detectives from our Robbery - Homicide Unit, along with specialists from the Forensics Unit, responded to assist with the investigation. Riverside Sheriff’s cadaver canines also aided.
The cadaver dogs alerted to freshly disturbed soil in the backyard. As detectives began digging the area, they found human remains. The Riverside SheriffCoroner’s Office responded to complete the recovery from the makeshift grave, identifying the
victim as 31-year-old Bradley Minder of Riverside.
Detectives arrested 48-year-old Richard Thomas Martinez of Riverside and later booked him into the Robert Presley Detention Center for murder. He is currently being held without bail.
Their preliminary investigation revealed the victim and suspect are roommates. During an altercation, the suspect killed Mr. Minder then buried his body in the backyard of their home.
This investigation is still ongoing and there are no other details to release at this time. Anyone with additional information should contact Detective Ricky Barajas at (951) 353-7213 or EBarajas@RiversideCA.gov, or Detective Richard Glover at (951) 353-7134 or RGlover@RiversideCA.gov.
Those wishing to remain anonymous can download the Riverside Police Department’s “Atlas 1” mobile app and utilize the “Send a Message” feature to send us the information. Our mobile app can be downloaded at APPLE or ANDROID.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Conducting DUI Patrols in Highland this Week
By San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department will be out Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., looking for drivers suspected of driving under the influence (DUI).
“Impaired driving is preventable,” Deputy James Luttio said. “It’s a choice. If you’ve been drinking or taken drugs that impair, make the right choice by finding a sober driver or alternate transportation to take you places.”
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. Always follow directions for use and read warning labels about driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
CAPSBC’s Diaper Bank Celebrates Distributing 10 Million Diapers Across
Community News
Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County (CAPSBC) recently celebrated distributing over 10 million diapers to families throughout San Bernardino County.
To celebrate the accomplishment, CAPSBC in partnership with Dignity Health hosted a drive-thru diaper distribution at Dignity Health’s education center, where 222 families were served.
The monthly community event was abuzz with gleeful volunteers, CAPSBC staff and diaper recipients.
Since its inception, the Diaper Bank has served 67,945 households and supported 100,131 children, totaling 10,184,540 diapers distributed.
CAPSBC’s Diaper Bank reached its milestone through a variety of distribution practices. Each month, the diaper bank works with 48 local organizations to assist in distribution across the county.
Internally, the agency uses its Mobile Food Pantry, Diaper Bank events and Family Development Program to distribute diapers.
In addition to its recent accomplishment, the Diaper
San Bernardino County
Bank has also celebrated 1 million diapers distributed through Loma Linda University’s diaper distribution program.
“We are thrilled to have achieved this monumental milestone! These achievements demonstrate our dedication to creating a healthier, more supportive environment for all families. As we reflect on this accomplishment, we recognize that our work is far from over and would not be possible without the support of our partners,” said President and CEO of CAPSBC, Patricia Nickols-Butler.
City
of Riverside Launching General Plan Update & Climate Action and Adaptation Plan for 2050
Community News
The City of Riverside announced the launch of the General Plan Update (GPU) and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) for 2050. The General Plan was last updated in 2007 and is currently guiding the City’s growth to 2025. This citywide effort is important because the GPU and CAAP will guide the city’s growth into a bright future for years to come by ensuring that both documents reflect current conditions in the community and its collective vision for the City through 2050.
The CAAP is being developed alongside the GPU because the City of Riverside is not immune to the local and regional environmental challenges that the City faces from climate change, including extreme heat, fewer colder days, prolonged drought, and poorer air quality. Updating the CAAP alongside the GPU will not only ensure robust and effective climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, but also synergize the CAAP’s goals with the City’s policy priorities to maximize resources and create efficiency. The GPU and CAAP process is expected to conclude in early 2027.
Join us for the FutureFest at Riverside Plaza on Oct. 24 from 4-8 p.m. to celebrate the launch of the GPU and CAAP! All community events will have children’s activities, food, and a chance to win free prizes. Everyone is welcome to attend these events and encouraged to get involved. This effort will guide the development and growth of the City through the year 2050 and your participation and input are critical to ensure that the Riverside of tomorrow is reflective of your needs and values.
Community input is the most critical component of this update process as the GPU and CAAP will be designed from top to bottom to reflect the community’s
vision for Riverside’s future. No formal decision will be made without obtaining community feedback first. Key decision makers like the City Council, City staff, and the consultant team will solicit and incorporate public input before establishing key strategies, objectives, and actions for the project.
The City of Riverside is committed to an inclusive outreach process that leads to robust public participation and a community-driven path toward the city’s future growth. A variety of outreach activities and events will be available for the community to engage in throughout the course of the project.
Community Mural Project: Community members will have the opportunity to submit an art piece that reflects their vision of the future of Riverside. All the submitted art pieces will come together to form a beautiful community mural that reveals a unified vision of the future of Riverside. You can access the artwork submission form digitally at www.Riverside2050.com. To pick up or drop off an artwork form in person, you can visit a Riverside GPU community event, the library, or City Hall. Visit www.Riverside2050.com for a full list of locations.
Community Workshops: A series of community workshops will be held throughout the City to provide opportunities for community members to engage in lively discussions and activities to learn more about the GPU and CAAP and share how the update can reflect their current needs and values. Spanish and American Sign Language interpretation will be available at all workshops.
Pop-Up Events in Every Ward: The Project Team will host several pop-ups at community events happening in all seven wards to share information about this citywide effort and to collect public feedback. Stay tuned for a
pop-up event near you.
Movable Exhibits in Every Ward: These exhibits will display project information and serve as a station for community members to learn more about the project. These exhibits will live at their designated community location until they are moved to another location so that everyone can have the opportunity to check them out.
Interactive Mapping Activity: A digital activity where the public can share their input about their block, neighborhood, community, or Ward and identify their assets and challenges.
City Council and Committee Briefings: City Council and committee briefings will be open for community members to attend and provide public feedback.
General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) Meetings: GPAC meeting materials and recordings will be shared via the project website for public review. The GPAC is composed of representatives from a broad range of communities who will serve as liaisons between their networks and organizations and the Project Team for information about the project and input from the community.
For more information about the project or to receive notifications visit www.Riverside2050.com. This website will serve as the main hub for project information, resources, and access to various digital activities. Additional information will be published as it becomes available.
For general inquiries send a text to 844-289-8614, or email info@Riverside2050.com.
PHOTO CAPSBC
CAPSBC hosting a diaper drive earlier this year in San Bernardino.
Epic 48-Hour Challenge: IE Filmmakers to Premiere Films on Big Screen Oct. 23 at Regal Ontario Palace, Public Welcome
By Manny Sandoval
The Inland Empire’s cinematic pulse is set to quicken with the highly anticipated public screening of the 6th Annual 48 Hour Film Project, where more than 25 short films will premiere on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the iconic Ontario Palace Stadium 22.
This thrilling event, produced by Kevin Lyons—an acclaimed filmmaker and professor at San Bernardino Valley College—showcases the relentless creativity and technical prowess of local filmmakers who raced against the clock to produce original films in just 48 hours.
The 48 Hour Film Project - Inland Empire kicked off on October 4th inside the state-of-the-art KVCR studio at San Bernardino Valley College, where over two dozen teams gathered to draw their film genres and receive three mandatory elements—a character, a prop, and a line of dialogue—required to be integrated into their productions. In a mere two days, teams wrote, produced, directed, shot, and edited 4-7 minute short films, a feat that mirrors the high-intensity demands of Hollywood filmmaking.
“This is our 6th year hosting the 48 Hour Film Project Inland Empire, and it's always an exhilarating experience,” said Lyons, who serves as producer for the event. “There's this infectious energy because it is a competition, after all. Each team is required to incorporate a
character named Millie or Milner Faust—a fire chief, a recipe card as a prop, and the line ‘How long have you been here?’ The creativity that stems from those restrictions is remarkable.”
As a global competition, the 48 Hour Film Project takes place in cities worldwide, from New York and Los Angeles to Paris and Tokyo. However, Lyons emphasizes the unique importance of the Inland Empire’s participation. “It’s essential to support local filmmakers,” he said, noting that many teams include students from SBVC’s Department of Film, Television, and Media. “Events like this create a space for emerging talent to be seen and appreciated. It’s a stepping stone to bigger productions and international networking.”
The excitement culminates on October 23 with a public screening at Ontario Palace Stadium 22, where the short films—crafted with passion, grit, and ingenuity— will debut on the big screen. Tickets are priced at just $20, giving attendees the opportunity to watch over 25 films in one thrilling evening. Lyons shared his enthusiasm about the venue, recalling its personal significance. “I remember when the Regal Ontario opened—it always felt like such an iconic space. To host our event there is special. There’s a lot of energy throughout the night, and we’ll have a live DJ and a step-and-repeat red carpet for photos, adding to the vibe.”
In addition to the screenings, the event will feature a Q&A session with the filmmakers, actors, and producers, offering audiences a glimpse behind the scenes.
Lyons reflected on the real-world value of the competition: “This is an excellent exercise for filmmakers, no matter their experience level. The competition embodies the three phases of production—pre-production, production, and post-production—all crammed into a tight window. Even seasoned filmmakers will walk away with new insights.”
The Inland Empire’s filmmaking community has seen its share of success through this competition. Last year, a student team placed third overall and earned the opportunity to screen their work internationally, building connections with filmmakers across the globe. For those attending the October 23 event, the possibility of witnessing future award-winning talent is a real draw.
With Inland Empire Community News co-owners Manny Sandoval and Denise Berver serving as judges, the competition promises to be powerful, with awards set to be distributed on November 16, 2024.
For those unable to attend the screening, more information about the competition and an in-depth discussion with producer Kevin Lyons can be found on the Inland Insight Podcast, hosted by Sandoval and Berver, here.
Tickets for the October 23 screening are available now at 48hourfilmie.ticketleap.com. Don’t miss this monumental celebration of local filmmaking talent in the Inland Empire.
(Left to right) 48 Hour Film Project - Inland Empire Producer Kevin Lyons, Competitor Samantha Morales, and KVCR Employee Briana Navarro at the Kickoff event on October 4th, 2024. Morales is picking a film genre out of a hat.
AB 2033 Signed Into Law as Groundbreaking Legislation Expands EBT Access to Tackle Student Hunger Across California College Campuses
Community News
On Friday October 18th, Assemblymember Eloise Reyes (DColton) celebrated the signing of AB 2033, the EBT Access for Student Empowerment (EASE) Act, at a joint event hosted by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and San Bernardino Valley College.
The event took place at the “Den Coffee Shop” located at San Bernardino Valley College. AB 2033 addresses the student hunger crisis faced on campuses across California by making it possible for students to use Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) across California’s three college systems.
This legislation was co-sponsored by the Student Senate for the California Community Colleges, the Faculty Association of California Community Colleges, and uAspire, a nonprofit focused on improving the economic mobility of underrepresented students.
“I am grateful to Governor Newsom for signing AB 2033 into law and want to thank our robust coalition of supporters, including the Community College Chancellor’s Office for helping get this across the finish line,” said Assemblymember Reyes. “Student hunger is directly linked to academic achievement and we know that
food insecure students are more likely to report lower GPAs given the externalities they face. AB 2033 is a step forward in our efforts to end student food insecurity across California.”
“By accepting EBT, college campuses are doing their part to promote food security. If students do not have to worry about where they will get their next meal, they can learn and thrive in school. This should be an ultimate goal for all of us,” said Dr. Sonya Christian, Chancellor of the California Community Colleges. “I applaud Assemblywoman Eloise Gomez Reyes for authoring AB 2033 and I thank the Governor for signing this important legislation.”
"AB 2033 ensures that our colleges continue to be the open door of opportunity for students. By addressing food insecurity, we are helping students stay in school, graduate, and build better futures,” said Dr. Diana Z. Rodriguez, Chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District. “That investment doesn’t just pay off for them—it strengthens our economy and lifts up our entire community."
PHOTO REYES’ OFFICE
Assemblymember Eloise Reyes addresses attendees at San Bernardino Valley College, speaking on the impact of AB 2033,
PHOTO REYES’ OFFICE
Assemblymember Eloise Reyes, alongside leaders from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, San Bernardino Community College District, and co-sponsoring organizations including the Student Senate, Faculty Association, and uAspire, celebrate the signing of AB 2033 to expand EBT access for students across California's colleges.
