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.

As San Bernardino grapples with how to deploy $23.8 million in funding for its new Homeless Navigation Center, tensions are mounting over design choices, service policies, and ongoing challenges in securing the cooperation of the unhoused. During a special council meeting held on October 24 at the Feldheym Library, Acting City Manager Rochelle Clayton revealed that despite a court injunction lifted on October 2 permitting the city to clear encampments, unhoused individuals at Perris Hill Park are refusing services, likely due to shelter rules.

In a spirited display of community and educational support, students, educators, and local officials gathered at Kelley Elementary School last week for Think Together’s “Lights On Afterschool” event. The celebration highlighted the critical role of afterschool programs through a dynamic literacy and numeracy carnival, where students practiced reading and math skills in a lively, supportive environment.

The Colton Joint Unified School District (CJUSD) held its Community Cabinet event on October 23, bringing together district leaders, students, and community members in a compelling showcase of student perspectives and the district's vision for equity in education. The event, focused on transparency and inclusivity, highlighted the findings from a series of student voice interviews, exposing challenges, aspirations, and crucial insights from the district's diverse student body. CJUSD Superintendent Dr. Frank Miranda underscored the district's commitment to equity, achievement, and wellness in addressing students' evolving needs.

The Rotary Club of Colton hosted its 3rd Annual Little Miss Colton Pageant on Sunday, October 20, 2024, gathering families and community members to celebrate the crowning of Colton's youngest royalty. Held indoors this year at the American Legion Hall Post 155, the pageant brought together local pride and excitement as young contestants vied for their respective titles in the cherished community event.

Thousands gathered at Carter High School on October 26th for the 17th Annual Rialto Unified School District Family Summit, an event themed “Roots and Dreams” that united students, families, and educators for a day of inspiration and community celebration. The summit featured a college and career fair, informative booths, and engaging activities, all underscoring the Rialto community's commitment to growth and educational aspirations.

A death investigation is underway following the fatal stabbing of a homeless man living in an encampment at Perris Hill Park on Sunday, November 3rd. The San Bernardino Police Department received a call for assistance at approximately 5:20 p.m. from the San Bernardino County Fire Department , reporting a stabbing incident within the park. Upon arrival, officers located the male victim, who had suffered suspected stab wounds as well as injuries from dog bites.

In a powerful call for transparency and community involvement, the Just San Bernardino Collaborative and local leaders gathered on November 6 to demand a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) and an open Request for Proposals (RFP) process for the redevelopment of the Carousel Mall in downtown San Bernardino. The coalition, composed of residents, local organizations, and labor representatives, underscored the need to build a redevelopment model that serves the entire community and addresses long-standing economic and environmental inequities.

The city of Colton welcomed Chief of Police Anthony Vega in June 2024, ushering in a new era of hope and transformation for its law enforcement department. With a vision of enhancing staffing, expanding resources for the unhoused, and leveraging advanced technology, Vega is dedicated to modernizing the department to meet the unique needs of the Colton community.

A traffic stop turned deadly Thursday morning after a San Bernardino man armed with a loaded firearm attempted to evade police, resulting in an officer-involved shooting. The incident occurred on November 7, 2024, around 9:19 AM on the 1400 block of West 7th Street in San Bernardino.