EL CHICANo
By Manny Sandoval
ASan Bernardino City Council meeting on Nov. 20 spiraled into chaos when Mayor Helen Tran removed a performance evaluation of City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho from the closed session agenda. The meeting, marked by yelling, interruptions, and heated accusations, showcased deepening fractures between city leadership and staff.
The meeting began at 4:05 p.m., but tensions erupted immediately as Tran announced her decision, citing procedural violations. Carvalho was stuck in traffic, leaving her unable to address the contro-
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By Manny Sandoval
After years of darkness, two northern San Bernardino neighborhoods now shine brightly thanks to the installation of 96 new streetlights. The project, completed this week, brings renewed safety, walkability, and a sense of community to areas that had been neglected for years.
“Some of these streets have been without lighting for several years,” said City of San Bernardino Deputy Director of Public Works and City Engineer Azzam Jabsheh. “Restoring lighting makes a huge difference to our neighborhoods and is a priority for us.”
The upgrades include the “Genevieve” Circuit, which stretches from Mountain View Avenue to Sierra Way and covers Marshall Boulevard to 34th Street, where 36 lights and
versy at its outset.
“As mayor of San Bernardino, I have a responsibility to uphold the rules and procedures that govern our city—ensuring fairness, transparency, and adherence to the law in our council proceedings,” Tran said. “It was inappropriate of the city attorney to place her own evaluation on the agenda without following the proper process.”
Tran explained her decision was rooted in the city charter and council procedures, which grant only the city manager, the mayor, or a council majority the authority to place items on the agenda.
poles were installed. Additionally, the “Ralston” Circuit now features 60 new lights and poles along Sierra Way, Ralston Avenue, Palmyra Avenue, Lugo Avenue, Belle Street, Sonora Drive, and 39th Street near Waterman Avenue.
Funded by Measure S, the project is part of a larger effort to enhance public safety and reduce energy costs through solar-powered lighting. The San Bernardino City Council recently approved $1.5 million, supplemented by a $250,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, to upgrade approximately 500 streetlights citywide.
Jeff Krauss, the city’s public information officer, explained the solar initiative’s broader impact. “The contract is focused on replacing traditional heads with solar-powered heads.
As of December 2024, Sonia R. Carvalho serves as the City Attorney for San Bernardino. Carvalho is a partner at Best Best & Krieger LLP (BB&K), a law firm retained by the city in August 2018 to provide municipal legal services. The BB&K team, led by Carvalho and including Thomas Rice and John Brown, was initially selected to work cooperatively with elected City Attorney Gary Saenz at that time.
Heated Responses and Accusations
Mayor Pro Tem Fred Shorett immediately objected, accusing Tran of acting out of personal bias.
“I find it wholly inappropriate that many times we start two or three minutes late, and tonight we started with a quorum, which is legal,” Shorett said. “Then we get this written statement without the city attorney here to comment. What you’re doing here tonight is absolutely egregious, and it should not go unnoticed that this is a political vendetta.”
Shorett interrupted Tran multiple times, demanding to know who had been advising her. “Who has been advising you, [Jim] Penman?” he shouted, referencing the former city attorney. The interruptions escalated as Shorett declared he would not participate in the meeting.
Councilmember Theodore Sanchez attempted to “de-escalate” the situation by moving for a recess until the city attorney and interim city manager Rochelle Clayton were present. However, the motion to delay the conversation did not pass.
PHOTO CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO
A newly installed solar-powered streetlight brightens the Genevieve Circuit in San Bernardino, part of the city's effort to enhance safety and sustainability.
PHOTO CITY OF SAN BERNARDINO City Attorney Sonia R. Carvalho defends her compliance with the Brown Act during a heated San Bernardino City Council meeting on Nov. 20, following her late arrival amid intense accusations and procedural chaos.
City Attorney (cont.)
Ortiz Highlights Alleged Corruption in Facebook Live
On Dec. 3, Ward 7 Councilmember-elect Dr. Treasure Ortiz took to Facebook Live to share her perspective on the chaos and allege misconduct within City Hall. Ortiz accused the city attorney and certain council members of fostering a hostile work environment and engaging in unethical behavior.
“What we witnessed at the last meeting is extremely problematic,” Ortiz said. “This is all potential for more lawsuits. What we have right now is a battle for power.”
Ortiz alleged that the city attorney’s office has resisted working with Interim City Manager Rochelle Clayton, who she claims has exposed long-standing corruption.
“Somehow this new acting city manager, Rochelle Clayton, has become a target of concern,” Ortiz said. “Just a month ago, the council voted unanimously to extend a contract to her. Then, all of a sudden, they began claiming she failed to move forward with a $17 million RFP for the Homekey grant.”
Ortiz claimed a public records request revealed that the city’s issues with the grant predated Clayton’s tenure. “What we discovered was that the city had been fraudulent well before Rochelle Clayton got here. The organization the city was trying to work with was underperforming to the point that even the assistant housing director called their efforts ‘dismal.’”
Ortiz further alleged that Carvalho created a toxic work environment. “The city attorney’s office has employees now reporting that they don’t want to work with the city manager,” she said. “This hostility is not just unprofessional—it’s dangerous.”
In addition to allegations of corruption, Ortiz accused council members of engaging in private meetings with Carvalho that violated transparency rules. “Thanks to Councilmember Sandra Ibarra, we now know that some council members met with the city attorney in Florida in what constituted a quorum to discuss her contract,” Ortiz claimed. “Chaos is what these people thrive on—instability and money.”
Ortiz went further, accusing certain council members of fraternizing with Carvalho during out-of-state trips, drinking excessively, and ignoring ethical boundaries. “Residents have video evidence of council members who no longer live in their wards, and yet the city attorney turns a blind eye,” she said.
Interim City Manager Interrogated
When Clayton arrived later in the meeting, Shorett interrogated her about the agenda’s preparation, repeatedly interrupting her
responses.
“Who is in charge of this agenda? Is this the city manager’s agenda, and did the city manager put this on the closed session?” Shorett demanded.
Clayton explained she had not approved the item and only became aware of it late Friday afternoon, Nov. 15, after receiving an email and text message from City Clerk Genoveva Rocha. Clayton clarified that she did not have sufficient time to properly address the matter before the meeting.
“I was not in the office; I was in a meeting,” Clayton said. “I did not see the message until after 1:20–1:30 p.m., and I believe the agenda was posted between 3 and 3:30 p.m. on Friday.”
Rocha confirmed Clayton’s timeline, adding, “The city attorney sent me an email, which I immediately forwarded to the city manager. I also sent her a text. I did not hear back from her.”
Shorett dismissed the explanation, pressing Clayton further. “So she sent you the message on Friday? Oh, that was only five days ago,” he said sarcastically.
Public and Legal Fallout
Carvalho defended her actions upon arrival, asserting compliance with the Brown Act.
“The Brown Act required you to post an agenda, and an agenda was posted in accordance with the Brown Act,” Carvalho said. “You guys decide what you want to do, but that is the law.”
Tran fired back, “Madam City Attorney, you placed the item on this agenda without authority. Let me finish!”
During public comments, Ortiz criticized Carvalho for wielding undue influence over council operations.
“What it really looks like right now, guys, is that the city attorney controls this dais,” Ortiz said.
In her Facebook Live, Ortiz expressed frustration with council members who she claimed were protecting Carvalho despite mounting issues.
“Residents deserve transparency and ethical leadership, not backroom deals and chaos,” Ortiz said. “The city attorney’s office and council members working with her are part of the instability.”
Looking Ahead
The Nov. 20 meeting left city leadership deeply divided, with public trust in city governance hanging in the balance. With allegations of corruption, procedural missteps, and ethical breaches, San Bernardino faces mounting scrutiny as its leaders navigate ongoing controversies.
The next city council meeting on Dec. 4th, 2024 is expected to address some of these issues, though whether the deepening rift will be resolved remains uncertain.
Street Lights (Cont.)
- These funds will cover about a third of the city’s streetlights,” he said.
The new solar-powered lights are designed to charge during the day and automatically illuminate at night. Test installations near the Carousel Mall and Feldheym Library have shown promising results, and residents in the affected neighborhoods are already seeing the benefits of restored lighting.
In addition to improving safety, the project addresses a significant issue in the re-
gion: copper wire theft. By replacing traditional lighting systems with solar technology, the city aims to eliminate the risk of stolen wiring while creating a more sustainable solution for its infrastructure.
Public Works crews have been busy revitalizing community spaces in tandem with the lighting upgrades, including replacing mulch and repairing irrigation systems. Krauss noted that these efforts are part of a larger commitment to improving public spaces, enhancing safety, and creating welcoming environments for residents.
“These upgrades not only enhance safety but also improve walkability and quality of life for our residents,” Jabsheh added.
The city plans to expand these efforts, evaluating feedback from the current projects and identifying additional areas in need of restoration.
With 96 streetlights already illuminating northern San Bernardino, the city’s investment in safety and sustainability is lighting the way for a brighter future.
County News
Murder Charges Filed Against Drunk Driver That Killed Two Toddlers and Injured Others in Rialto
Community News
On November 26, 2024, San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office prosecutors in our Office of Traffic Safety Unit filed multiple felony charges including murder against Alexis Jose Garcia (28) of San Bernardino. On the evening of November 24th, Defendant Garcia was allegedly driving under the influence, and ran a red light in Rialto t-boning a vehicle with a family inside, resulting in the death of two toddlers.
Alexis Jose Garcia is charged with the following:
· Two counts of PC187(a) - Murder
· Two counts of PC191.5(a) – Gross Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated
· One count of VC20001(b)(2) – Hit and Run Resulting in Death
· One count of VC23153(a) – Driving Under the Influence of alcohol Resulting in Injury
· One count of VC23153(b) – Driving with a .08% BAC or More Causing Injury
Our office has also alleged multiple special allegations for fleeing after committing vehicular manslaughter, great bodily injury and driving with .15% or more BAC.
“Here we have yet another tragic DUI related death that was completely preventable and born out of selfish and reckless behavior.” said San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson. “Given the amount of education from advocates like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and countless ridesharing alternatives there is absolutely no excuse for anyone to get behind the wheel intoxicated.”
“Those two little girls should be writing their letters to Santa, but instead their family is dealing with the unthinkable task of writing their eulogies. We send our deepest condolences to their loved ones “
Our Office as well as Rialto Police Department have filed motions recommending No Bail. Defendant Garcia is scheduled for arraignment on November 27th, 2024 at Rancho Cucamonga Courthouse.
San Bernardino Homicide Investigation Arrest Update
Community News
On Saturday, October 19, 2024, at approximately 1:00 AM, the San Bernardino Police Department’s dispatch center received a report of a shooting in the 1100 block of North G Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered a victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Paramedics responded to the scene, but the victim was pronounced deceased. Homicide detectives were called to conduct the investigation.
Through their efforts, detectives identified the suspects as Edward Martin, 34, and Tajanay Boyd, 29, residents of San Bernardino and Redlands, respectively.
On November 21, 2024, investigators lo-
cated Edward Martin in Redlands, California, where he was arrested. Subsequently, on November 27, 2024, at approximately 10:00 AM, Tajanay Boyd was located and arrested in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Boyd was booked into jail and is pending extradition back to California. Both suspects face charges of murder. Investigators are continuing to seek additional witnesses who may have been in the area at the time of the shooting.
The San Bernardino Police Department urges anyone with information about this case to contact Detective B. Keith at (909) 384-5638 or via email at Keith_Br@sbcity.org.
You may also reach Sergeant E. Campos at (909) 384-5613 or Campos_Er@sbcity.org.
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Announces $1 Million in Charitable Grants for Wildfire Relief and Conservation on Giving Tuesday
Community News
In celebration of Giving Tuesday, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is excited to announce $1 million in grants to support recovery, conservation, and wildfire prevention efforts in the communities threatened by recent wildfires.
The grants, aimed at helping restore and protect vital ecosystems, provide critical resources to local organizations and agencies working on the front lines of recovery, environmental protection, and community safety.
"Giving Tuesday is a day that calls upon us to reflect on the power of collective generosity," said Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. "We are honored to support our 2024 grant recipients in their efforts to rehabilitate lands affected by the recent wildfires and invest in the long-term health of our communities and ecosystems. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is deeply committed to preservation and stewardship of the cultural and natural resources of the region."
These grants are particularly significant as they come at a time when many of these regions are still recovering from devastating wildfires that have threatened homes, wildlife, and natural resources.
In addition to providing financial support, the Tribe hopes to strengthen the resilience of these communities and protect the areas that are vital to both the environment and the people who live there.
The Tribe’s Giving Tuesday grants will be distributed to the following organizations, each dedicated to addressing the pressing needs of their respective regions:
The Wildlands Conservancy will receive a $200,000 grant to support clean up and restoration efforts to Bluff Lake which was severely impacted by the Line Fire and will also provide support for replanting of vegetation and removal of invasive growth.
Mojave Desert Land Trust will receive a $200,000 to support the design and planning of a comprehensive fire management response plan that can be implemented by MDLT and be shared with other organizations and entities as a resource.
San Bernardino Mountains Land Trust will receive a $100,000 grant to aid in the implementation of a seed bank; this will support collecting and growth of native plants and trees in the mountain area after wildfires or other disasters occur.
Center for Biological Diversity will receive a $100,000 grant to support relationship building between tribes, and lead land stewardship projects and projects in advocacy to protect sacred sites.
Victor Valley College Foundation will receive a $100,000 grant to provide support for students of the “Fire Fighter I” academy to help increase the number of trained fire personnel.
Arrowbear Lake Fire Department will receive a $100,000 grant to help purchase emergency rescue equipment and make modifications to the existing station.
Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians will receive a $100,000 grant to purchase emergency rescue equipment.
Apple Valley Fire Protection District will receive a $100,000 grant to purchase emergency generators for Stations 332 and 334 allowing the stations to maintain operations during critical times enabling effective and efficient response.
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has long been a leader in charitable giving and environmental advocacy. By supporting these organizations, the Tribe continues its tradition of fostering sustainable practices and contributing to the well-being of local communities.
To learn more about the Tribe’s philanthropy, visit www.SanManuelCares.org.
Community News
The entrepreneurial spirit meets holiday giving as the Black and Brown Opportunities for Profit (BBOP) Center hosts its heartwarming Year-End Holiday Celebration on December 17th from 12 pm to 2 pm. This festive gathering isn't just about celebrating success – it's about creating smiles for local children while showcasing the power of women-led businesses in the Inland Empire.
In its role as San Bernardino's premier business incubator for women of color, the BBOP Center has become a beacon of hope and economic empowerment. The Center provides crucial resources, mentorship, and a supportive ecosystem where women entrepreneurs can transform their business dreams into profitable realities, breaking down long-standing barriers in the process.
"Every successful business we
help launch represents a family's future transformed," says Vanessa Perez, CEO of the BBOP Center. "This celebration honors those transformations while paying it forward to the next generation."
The holiday event will feature a toy drive benefiting homeless children supported by Time for Change Foundation. Guests bringing unwrapped toys for children ages 0-6 will receive raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes from local womenowned businesses.
Amidst seasonal treats and festive networking, attendees will hear inspiring success stories from entrepreneurs who have flourished through BBOP's programs.
Event Details:
*Date: Tuesday, December 17, 2024
*Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (PST)
*Location: 599 N. Arrowhead Ave., San Bernardino, CA 92401
The BBOP Center, launched by Time for Change Foundation in 2023, has emerged as a vital force in addressing systemic inequities in business ownership. Through its comprehensive business services, the Center provides:
Business dev. workshops Mentorship
Access to capital and funding opportunities
Networking events
Co-working spaces
Childcare center
Marketing and branding support
The Year-End Holiday Celebration represents more than just seasonal festivities – it's a testament to the power of community investment and the rising tide of women entrepreneurs reshaping San Bernardino's business landscape.
City of Riverside’s Entrepreneurship Month Efforts Culminate With Riverside Business Hub and Riverside Business Resources Guide
By Manny Sandoval
The City of Riverside’s celebration of National Entrepreneurship Month has culminated in a partnership with the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, Inland Empire Small Business Development Center, and the Women’s Business Center to launch the Riverside Business Hub and Riverside Business Resource Guide.
The Riverside Business Hub, located at the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce building, reflects the City of Riverside’s commitment to supporting local businesses, fostering entrepreneurship, and working closely with economic development ecosystem partners to provide valuable and accessible resources to the growing community of small business owners.
“We are thrilled to establish the Riverside Business Hub in our building,” said Nicholas Adcock, President and CEO of the Riverside Greater Chambers of Commerce. “This is a reflection of our unwavering dedication to being a central resource for small businesses in our community. We want every entrepreneur to know that the Chamber is here to support them, from startup to growth.”
Catering to the needs of both startups and existing businesses, The Riverside
Business Hub offers no-cost business support services provided by the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center and the Women’s Business Center.
Led by expert business consultants, business support programs provide insight, resources, and opportunities tailored for new and existing businesses, including no-cost one-on-one consulting sessions for personalized guidance and support.
“The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center offers valuable training and resources at no-cost to business owners to help empower them to thrive,” said Paul Nolta, Director of the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center. “Our team of experts provide guidance on business planning, financial management, marketing, and strategy, helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business. We want to see all Riverside businesses prosper from the services we provide.”
Business advisors encompass current or former business owners, practicing attorneys, angel investors, procurement experts, former bankers, marketers, web designers, CPAs, student interns, and more. Staff speaks Arabic, Armenian, Assyrian, Cantonese, Chiuchow, Farsi, French, German, Gujarati, Hindi, Hun-
garian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Laotian, Mandarin, Marathi, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu, and Vietnamese.
As another resource for businesses, the newly launched Riverside Business Resource Guide is now available at City Hall and The Riverside Business Hub.
The Riverside Business Resource Guide brings together the vast array of resources from numerous entrepreneurial support organizations to provide businesses with a single, comprehensive guide to easily navigate their entrepreneurial journey. The Riverside Business Resource Guide can be found here.
“The Riverside Business Resource Guide is designed to be a one-stop guide for entrepreneurs, providing all the essential information and tools in one place to help businesses succeed,” said Miranda Evans, Economic Development Manager for the City of Riverside. “By consolidating resources on funding, regulations, permits, and support services, it simplifies the process of starting, growing, and sustaining a successful business. With the launch of this guide, we want you to know that Riverside is committed to providing a streamlined, business-friendly experience, ensuring that entrepreneurs have the resources and support they need to succeed every step of the way."
The City and its partners encourage the community to shop local and support the hardworking small business owners who contribute to the vibrancy and diversity of the local economy.
This commitment was reflected in the recent Small Business Saturday celebration, part of a nationwide event that takes place every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving and serves as an opportunity to recognize the impact small businesses have on communities and the economy as a whole.
The Riverside Business Hub will be hosting a variety of events to provide educational workshops, networking opportunities, and guidance on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. These events are open to all and designed to encourage collaboration and growth within the small business community.
The Riverside Business Hub is located on the second floor of the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce building located at 3985 University Avenue and is open to provide business services Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Riverside Business Resource Guide is available online to assist new and experienced business owners.
PHOTO BBOP
BBOP Center leadership including Executive Director Vanessa Perez and Time For Change Foundation Founder Kim Carter (middle center).
By IECN Staff
Former Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patient Caden Henderson has launched his fourth annual teddy bear drive, continuing nine years of support for the hospital since his own experience there in 2016.
Henderson, now a sophomore at the University of Redlands, has collected more than 1,300 teddy bears and raised over $20,000 since beginning his efforts. His initiative stems from gratitude for the care he received during his four-day hospital stay.
“The Child Life team at the hospital is so special,” Henderson said. “They put me at ease and provided activities and games to help pass the time. We were lucky our stay was only four days, while other children had to stay for much longer. I’m happy to find even a small way to give back and help those patients.”
This year’s drive runs through Dec. 15, with donations of new teddy bears accepted at multiple locations. Bears in their original packaging, such as those sent directly from Amazon, are particularly encouraged to ensure sterility for the hospital’s most vulnerable patients. The bears will be delivered to patients during the week of Christmas.
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Drop-Off Locations: Paulson Orthodontics, Redlands (also accepting bears by mail)
Star Tulip Stuffies House of Fine Stuffed Animals, Redlands (offering discounted bears for the drive while supplies last)
CycleBar, Redlands and Rancho Cucamonga
Amazing Lash Studio, Redlands and Upland
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, Beaumont
La Loma Credit Union, Loma Linda and Riverside
Inland Dental Care, Highland
The drive has received support from several local organizations, including Arrowheart, the nonprofit arm of Arrowhead Credit Union, which is donating a group of new teddy bears for the hospital drop-off. Burretc San Bernardino supplied collection boxes for all drop-off locations, and Phyllis Kates of PK Design graciously provided flyer and logo graphic design services.
For updates on the drive, visit the Instagram page @caden_center.
(TTY
or in-person seminar to learn
Call me to RSVP or visit my website at
Please recycle. 945996849 July 2024
PHOTO COURTESY OF HENDERSON
Caden Henderson, a former Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patient, holds teddy bears donated as part of his annual drive to benefit hospitalized children. Henderson has been supporting the hospital for nine years, collecting over 1,300 teddy bears and raising more than $20,000 since 2016.
referred to as the District is so iciting electronic bid subm ttals through its OpenGov eProcurement web porta in response to Bid No 24-08 Fleet and Program VehiclesDistrictwide Bids must be submitted electronically up to but not later than Friday, December 20, 2024, at 1:00
p m at https://procurement opengov c om/porta /sbcusd B dders who are desirous of securing a copy of the Bid documents may do so by logging into the District's website at: https://procurement opengov c om/portal/sbcusd Bid responses must conform and be responsive in accordance with the Bid Documents posted through the District s OpenGov website portal Contract award is contingent upon the availability of funds Local Minority and Disabled Veterans Businesses are specifically encouraged to respond The D strict reserves the right to accept or
B d By: Laura Cardenas, D rector
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By Manny Sandoval
As the holiday season coincides with the aftermath of the 2024 election, parents across the country are grappling with how to navigate the emotional fallout—and their children are noticing. According to Amy Streavel, Associate Vice President of Community Education and Outreach at Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties (PPOSBC), children can absorb their parents’ election-related stress in ways that impact their emotional health.
“The next four years are going to bring incredible challenges for many families, and it’s important that we have clear and compassionate conversations with our kids about what’s happening,” said Streavel. “It’s not about shielding them from reality but helping them process it in an age-appropriate and constructive way.”
Streavel, a reproductive rights advocate and mother of two, shared how she addressed the situation with her own children after Donald Trump was reelected. She emphasized the importance of creating space for children to share their feelings and offering thoughtful, honest responses. “I asked my daughters how they were feeling and made sure they knew it was okay to be upset or con-
fused,” she said. “Kids pick up on so much more than we realize, so it’s crucial to be proactive and supportive.”
Here are Streavel’s top tips for parents to help their children navigate political stress:
Ask how they’re feeling. Create an open dialogue where children feel safe sharing their thoughts.
Keep responses age-appropriate. Younger children may need reassurance, while older kids might benefit from a discussion about civic engagement.
Focus on kindness and respect. Use this opportunity to teach values that extend beyond politics.
Talk about fact-checking. Explain how misinformation spreads and how to critically evaluate sources.
Encourage questions. Teach children to seek answers from trusted adults and develop curiosity about the world around them.
Highlight local politics. Emphasize the importance of voting and community involvement.
Address school dynamics. Help them brainstorm ways to handle bullying or political disagreements with peers. Model family values.
Demonstrate your principles through actions in the community.
Streavel also offered advice for handling politically charged conversations with extended family during holiday gatherings, particularly when topics like reproductive rights and abortion arise. “Respectful, fact-based discussions can set an example for children about how to engage on difficult topics,” she said.
PPOSBC, under Streavel’s leadership, has been recognized for its innovative health education programs, including comprehensive sex education for students with intellectual disabilities and consent-focused workshops for incarcerated young men.
The organization recently received the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce’s Excellence in Healthcare award for its contributions to health education in Orange and San Bernardino Counties.
“Children look to us for guidance during uncertain times,” Streavel said. “By showing them how to stay informed, be kind, and take action in their own small ways, we empower them to navigate an everchanging world with confidence.”
