Category: San Bernardino

San Bernardino Valley is pleased to announce the unanimous selection of Jose Velasquez as the new Director for Division 1. Following a transparent and inclusive selection process that included interviews open to the public and streamed online, the Board of Directors has appointed Mr. Velasquez to the seat left vacant by the passing of Dr. June Hayes. Mr. Velasquez brings over 15 years of leadership in the water industry, with a proven track record in financial stewardship and public transparency. As a seasoned finance professional, he has managed critical district operations, including budgeting, investment management, and infrastructure planning. Board President T. Milford Harrison praised the quality of the candidates who participated in the process. “We had six strong and highly qualified candidates interview for this important position,” said President Harrison. “After careful consideration, we ultimately selected Jose Velasquez for his outstanding leadership qualities. We are confident he will serve our Agency with distinction.” In addition to his professional achievements, Mr. Velasquez has a long history of community involvement, including serving as a head coach for the Rialto Youth Soccer League and as an active member

Flights to Las Vegas and Phoenix, once hailed as convenient travel options for Inland Empire residents, have been missing from San Bernardino International Airport’s (SBD) schedule for most of 2024, leaving the community wondering why. During the January Small Business Watch Meeting hosted by the San Bernardino Police Department, SBD CEO Mike Burrows explained the disappearance of these popular routes. Operated by Breeze Airways, the flights were introduced as seasonal and initially thrived, with departures to Las Vegas and Phoenix offered on Thursdays and Sundays. However, Burrows revealed that strategic competition from other budget airlines led to their removal. “Competing carriers tracked Breeze Airways’ flight schedules and mirrored them, offering flights at the same exact times and on the same days,” said Burrows. “This tactic is common and significantly diminished demand for flights out of SBD.” Breeze Airways began passenger service at SBD in August 2022 with three to four weekly flights to San Francisco, later adding Las Vegas in February 2023 and Phoenix in February 2024. The routes quickly became popular with residents seeking alternatives to larger airports and $5 daily parking. “There was

The Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce brought vibrant energy to downtown San Bernardino on Monday Jan. 20th, with its 5th Annual MLK Day Parade and Extravaganza, a growing celebration of unity and equality. Held along W. Fourth Street and centered in the former Stater Bros. parking lot, the event drew hundreds of families and community members despite heavy winds. This year’s parade, the city’s largest yet, was led by former Councilwoman Kimberly Calvin and First 5 San Bernardino Executive Director Karen Scott, who graced one of the first floats as attendees cheered from the sidelines. Parents, children, and residents from the San Bernardino City Unified School District (many of whom had children in the parade) lined the streets to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy of justice, freedom, and equality for all. The celebration showcased colorful floats, live performances , and cultural displays, uniting the community in a shared commitment to King’s vision. With each passing year, the parade continues to grow, solidifying its place as one of the city’s most cherished traditions. Continue Reading

The Board of Supervisors conducted a public hearing on Tuesday, Jan. 14, at the County Government Center in San Bernardino to receive input from community residents on the strategic use of grant funds that the county receives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The hearing was also open to residents through videoconference locations in Joshua Tree and Hesperia. “Today’s hearing provided vital feedback from our citizens on affordable housing and community development needs across the county,” said Community Development and Housing (CDH) Director Carrie Harmon. “Their input is important to us and will help shape the 2025 Consolidated Plan.” Every five years, CDH is required to prepare a Consolidated Plan to identify affordable housing and community development needs and prioritize projects to address these needs. The purpose of the Consolidated Plan is to establish goals and delineate how grant funds will be utilized toward increasing affordable housing, reducing homelessness, and providing a range of social services to underserved communities for the next five years. HUD grant funds can be allocated to eligible projects and activities in the unincorporated communities of the county

In a closed session held on January 8, 2025, the San Bernardino City Council convened to discuss the procedures for appointing the city’s next manager, a role pivotal to restoring stability in a city beleaguered by frequent administrative changes. The meeting featured three public comments that underscored the community’s urgent demand for consistent and effective leadership. Former City Councilmember Kim Calvin delivered a critical perspective on the council’s handling of city manager appointments. “I don’t know who you think is going to miraculously want to come to a city of this type of dysfunction. You all will be the ones we, the community members hold accountable for every decision that you make going forward,” Calvin asserted. She challenged the council’s decision-making process, stating, “Those of you who have already made the worst of decisions when it comes to bringing city managers to this city—I don’t have to call out names, but I am prepared.” Calvin further endorsed Clayton, asserting her effectiveness during her interim tenure. “If you chose former City Manager Charles Montoya, then I would think that hands down Interim City Manager Rochelle Clayton

Video cameras in the hands of more than 400 proud relatives and community members ran nonstop at the inaugural performance of the San Bernardino Youth Symphony Orchestra Sunday, December 15th at the historic San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium… and it was glorious. Cameras which had, years past, been verboten in orchestral settings, have become an ubiquitous part of American life; so on an occasion such as the highly anticipated opening of the region’s first full youth orchestra under the auspices of a professional orchestra – the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra – exceptions weren’t just made, they were encouraged. This was, after all, an historic afternoon. Shared SBYSO Conductor Dr. Lucy Lewis, “The launch of the San Bernardino Symphony Youth Orchestra this fall and the presentation of their inaugural performance represent a resounding success that is a testament to the hard work of all of the students involved, and their families that have supported them. We believe in the talent and brilliance of our Inland Empire youth, and it is our honor to be able to support their growth both as artist-musicians, and human beings.” And support

San Bernardino County is pleased to announce the election of Josie Gonzales as the new Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk, effective January 6th, 2025. With her extensive background in public service and community leadership, Gonzales is poised to bring innovation, integrity, and dedication to her new role. Gonzales brings a wealth of experience in local government, having worked in various capacities to support San Bernardino County residents. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to ensuring transparency, improving access to services, and supporting the needs of residents. Her leadership will be pivotal as the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk’s office continues its important work in maintaining accurate property records and ensuring fair and equitable assessments for all residents. “I am truly honored to serve as Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk for our community,” said Josie Gonzales. “I look forward to working with my dedicated team to continue enhancing the services we provide, improving transparency, and ensuring that all residents are treated with fairness and respect.” As Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk, Gonzales will oversee the valuation of property, the maintenance of property records, and the facilitation of vital services such as document recording, birth, death

An infusion of ’90s nostalgia is set to transform San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) this spring as the Wolverine Con International Student Film Festival returns March 4–7, 2025. Featuring everything from a debate competition to a rap battle and a 66-hour film challenge, the annual festival is spotlighting an era known for iconic movies and groundbreaking independent cinema. “This is my favorite time period because it was my coming-of-age decade, transitioning from high school to college,” said Lucas Cuny, SBVC’s Film, TV, and Media Department Chair. “The ’90s was a rediscovery. The ’80s had huge blockbusters with Stallone and Schwarzenegger, and before that, the late ’60s and ’70s were all about film auteurs like George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. But in the ’90s, emerging filmmakers such as Quentin Tarantino, David Fincher, and Wes Anderson finally started making the movies they really wanted.” Cuny notes the importance of the 1990s in launching the modern film festival circuit—epitomized by Sundance—and cites quintessential ’90s titles like “Pulp Fiction,” “Seven,” and “Swingers.” He also points to 1999 as a watershed year for cinema, boasting landmark films such as “American

More than 10,000 books have been gifted to children under five years old across San Bernardino County through First 5 San Bernardino’s annual “Gift a Kid a Book” campaign. This year’s milestone was celebrated during the Miracle on Court Street event on Dec. 17, where 1,000 books were available to local families. The campaign aims to promote literacy and early learning, offering children a meaningful alternative to screen time while nurturing their development. Karen Scott, executive director of First 5 San Bernardino, reflected on the impact of reading. “Books are a timeless gift that can transport a child anywhere,” Scott said. “In a world dominated by screens, a book offers an opportunity to connect, learn, and dream.” Scott, who has served with the organization for 17 years, shared personal anecdotes to illustrate the power of reading. “As a child, I loved books so much that I’d often get in trouble for staying up late under the covers with a flashlight. I devoured stories like the ‘Nancy Drew’ mysteries, ‘Pippi Longstocking,’ and ‘Madeline.’ Those books sparked my imagination and curiosity,” she said. The “Gift a Kid

The City of San Bernardino is asking members of the community to volunteer for its 2025 Homeless Point-in-Time Count (PITC), to be held on Thursday, January 23rd, from 5:15 am to 10:00 am. Participants will convene at the National Orange Show, Gate #10, located at 930 S. Arrowhead Avenue in San Bernardino. “Tackling homelessness with compassion and urgency remains a critical priority for San Bernardino,” said San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran. “We call on our residents to stand together and be part of this meaningful effort to support those in need.” The PITC is a Federally mandated activity created to identify the number of unhoused individuals throughout the nation. In addition to individuals living outdoors, the Count also includes individuals in emergency shelters, transitional housing and safe havens. The results of the Count are used in determining funding allotments for programs and services in local communities. PITC surveys will occur throughout San Bernardino County on January 23rd. “A complete and accurate count is essential to strategically address homelessness in the City,” said Cassandra Searcy, Deputy Director of Housing and Homelessness. “Volunteer participation is crucial for

The City of San Bernardino marked a significant leadership transition during its Dec. 18 city council meeting, as four councilmembers were sworn in, including three new members and one re-elected representative. The evening was highlighted by candid remarks, reflections on achievements, and calls for transparency in the city’s future governance. Kim Knaus (District 4), Mario Flores (District 6), and Dr. Treasure Ortiz (District 7) joined the council for the first time, while Juan Figueroa (District 3) was sworn in after being re-elected in November. Their arrival ushers in a new chapter for the council, as San Bernardino continues efforts to address systemic issues and rebuild trust within its community. The ceremony drew hundreds of residents to the Norman F. Feldheym Public Library, reflecting a strong sense of civic engagement. Outgoing Councilmembers Speak Out Outgoing Councilman Ben Reynoso (District 4) gave an emotional and pointed farewell, thanking his partner Esmeralda Vazquez, his daughter, and his late father, who passed away from brain cancer during his term. “I wish my dad was here to see me leave so I could talk to him about the relief that

Two residents were injured, and four others displaced after an apartment fire erupted on Dec. 23rd in the 200 block of E. 13th Street in San Bernardino, according to the San Bernardino County Fire Department (SBCoFD). Fire crews were dispatched at 5:30 a.m. after 911 callers reported heavy flames coming from a two-story apartment building and indicated that up to four people might be trapped. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered significant fire activity on the first floor, which was threatening the second story and cutting off the primary escape route for upstairs residents. “The rapid and robust response by our firefighters was critical in containing the fire and preventing greater loss,” said SBCoFD Battalion Chief Mike McClintock. “We arrived within minutes, conducted immediate searches, and extinguished the fire in under 30 minutes. This demonstrates the high level of training and coordination of our crews.” Two civilians were injured in the incident. One resident jumped from the second story, sustaining moderate injuries, and was transported to a local trauma center by AMR. A second resident, who evacuated quickly, suffered minor injuries but declined transport after receiving paramedic

The San Bernardino Police Department (SBPD) has refuted allegations from Teamsters Local 1932 that officers harassed participants at events and labor demonstrations, citing public safety concerns and reaffirming their support for lawful protests while denouncing unlawful tactics. SBPD Lieutenant Nick Oldendorf addressed the union’s claims, which were initially presented at the December 4 San Bernardino City Council meeting. Oldendorf emphasized that the department’s actions are guided by safety protocols and the need to ensure protests do not disrupt traffic, endanger participants, or violate laws. Safety Concerns During Protests  While expressing support for First Amendment rights, Oldendorf clarified that certain tactics employed during Teamsters-led demonstrations have created serious safety risks. “We absolutely support and defend anyone’s First Amendment right to peacefully protest,” Oldendorf said. “However, the First Amendment does not grant the right to unlawfully protest. When protests create extreme safety concerns—like blocking vehicles, trucks, and roadways—it becomes unlawful. We cannot overlook that, especially when it could lead to car crashes and other incidents.” Oldendorf described recent demonstrations outside San Bernardino Amazon distribution centers where Teamsters organized efforts to unionize workers. “During a recent demonstration, Teamsters

The San Bernardino City Council has approved $13,792,332.00 to renovate Seccombe Lake Park, including a $10.5 million construction contract to Landscape Support Services of North Hollywood California. The project is expected to revitalize the Park with new amenities and to restore and upgrade the existing infrastructure. “The planning and funding of the improvements at Seccombe Lake Park have been several years in the making,” said San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran. “We are excited that the Park’s transformation is about to begin.”   Major improvements planned for the 44-acre park will include restoration of the Park’s signature lake; new landscaping and irrigation; renovation of the gazebo, restrooms, and basketball courts; new lighting throughout the park; new concrete walking paths; restoration of the island in the middle of the lake, new playground equipment along with large shade sails, upgrades to the dog park, and repaving of the parking lot. Other improvements will include new conduits for EV charging stations, ADA upgrades, new fishing stations around the lake, upgraded drinking fountains and trash enclosures, and the installation of palm tree solar lighting. Plans for the renovation were prepared by