Redlands News: April 11, 2025

LATEST

*Orange tree at Old Grove Orange farm in Redlands. (Photo: Stephanie, CFR)*

How Federal Funding Cuts Are Hitting Redlands Farms and Families

REDLANDS, Calif. — Recent cuts to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding raises concerns about the future of farm-to-school programs and food bank partnerships across the country, including here in Redlands.

Why it matters: The success of these programs partially rely on federal support to provide fresh, local produce to schools and families in need. The reductions could significantly impact both local farmers and the communities they serve, limiting access to nutritious food for students and those experiencing food insecurity.

The impact on local farms: For decades, local farms have benefitted from USDA funding that facilitated contracts with schools and food banks. These partnerships not only supported small-scale agriculture, but also ensured that students received fresh, locally grown food as part of their meals. With the latest round of federal budget cuts, however, many farmers now face uncertainty about their ability to continue these partnerships. The USDA initially planned to completely halt the "Food Box" program, which Old Grove Orange and other farms in the Redlands area were under contract for until 2026.

Anna Knight, a fifth-generation farmer and operator of Old Grove Orange, explained that contracts cannot simply be stopped once food is already planted.

After two weeks, federal funding was temporarily unfrozen, but shortly after, the USDA announced a $1 billion cut to farm-to-food bank and farm-to-school programs.

Read the full story on how these cuts could reshape our local food system.

CITY HALL

🚧 New housing + retail project approved downtown: The Redlands Planning Commission has greenlit a new 82-unit mixed-use development at Eureka Street and Stuart Avenue—just steps from the train station. The project includes nearly 7,000 square feet of retail space, two tree-filled courtyards, and a public pedestrian walkway. Supporters say it's a much-needed boost to walkable housing. Neighbors raised concerns about parking. Read the full story.

🚔 Southside burglary attempt leads to arrests: Three men were arrested after an attempted break-in on Calle Solejar Drive — the same area hit by a string of recent burglaries. Police tracked the suspects from the scene to the Moreno Valley Mall with help from a sheriff’s helicopter. Investigators are looking into possible ties to the broader burglary spree. Read the full story.

🚨 Phone scam costs Redlands senior $15,000: A 75-year-old woman was tricked into handing over thousands in cash after a caller claimed her daughter had been arrested. Redlands police are investigating the fraud, which follows two similar scams targeting local seniors. Read more and learn how to protect your family.

⚠️ County warns of fake lien notices: San Bernardino County officials are warning residents about misleading letters that appear to be official notices demanding payment for liens. The letters, which often cite legitimate public records, are being sent by third-party solicitors attempting to trick recipients into sending money under false pretenses. Read more here.

From afterschool care and senior wellness to youth sports and mountain campouts, the YMCA of the East Valley is so much more than a gym.

As a nonprofit serving Redlands, Highland, and San Bernardino, the Y provides year-round programs that strengthen community, support working families, and create opportunities for all.

Next month: Experience the magic of Circus Fantasy, this year’s production of The Great Y Circus ® —Redlands' own youth circus held every May! This year’s show starting May 2 will take you on a tour of a mythical world filled with legendary creatures and beasts from long-lost tales, brought to life by performers as young as 3 years old. Tickets are available for purchase only at the Redlands YMCA front desk (500 E Citrus Ave).

Discover how your membership supports child care, financial assistance and beloved local traditions like The Great Y Circus®.

📍 Read the full sponsor profile:

EDUCATION

Redlands School Board at Center of Fierce Debate Over Parental Rights, Identity, and Curriculum

Tensions were high Tuesday night in Redlands Unified as school board members consider policies on parental notification, book restrictions, and student identity.

At the April 8 board meeting, no vote was taken—but the room (and sidewalk outside) was packed.

Supporters say they’re standing up for parental rights. Opponents say these policies will harm LGBTQ+ students and drain resources from already underfunded programs. We break down the proposals, the people behind them, and what might come next.

💻 🎥 Read and watch the full story at the link below:

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Honoring Officer Seth Franklin

*(Photo: Courtesy Redlands Police Officer Association.)*

The Redlands community is mourning the loss of Officer Seth Franklin, a beloved police officer, husband, and father remembered for his grace, kindness, and service. A Fund A Hero campaign has been launched to support his wife and two young sons, who have been left without income following his passing.

The Redlands Police Department will honor Officer Franklin with a private procession on Monday, April 14, beginning at 10:40 a.m., for family and law enforcement personnel. Community members are encouraged to show their support by lining the designated route.

A Celebration of Life open to the public will take place Tuesday, April 15 at Wildwood Calvary Chapel in Yucaipa.

Read more about Seth’s legacy and how to support his family:

🗺️ At this week’s Redlands Forum, HALO Trust CEO James Cowan delivered a sobering and inspiring talk about the global effort to clear land mines from former war zones. From classrooms in Afghanistan to conservation zones in Angola, Cowan shared how the organization is restoring safety and opportunity to communities—one cleared field at a time. Read the full article here.

SPORTS

Redlands Bicycle Classic in full swing

🚴‍♂️🚴‍♀️ The Redlands Bicycle Classic kicked off midweek with thrilling wins at Lake Perris and Onyx Summit—and the action is just getting started. With circuit races, public rides, school competitions, and the legendary Sunset Road Race ahead, the weekend promises high-speed excitement and community fun across Redlands. Read more here.

Elite riders and local favorites take over Redlands streets this weekend

The races roll into Redlands this weekend with fast-paced action, family-friendly events, and a few key road closures to keep in mind. From public rides and kids’ races to the legendary Sunset Road Race, there’s something for everyone. Plus, come say hi to Community Forward Redlands—we’ll be in the Vendor Village Saturday and Sunday!

Plan your weekend with the Redlands Bicycle Classic here:

🥎 Citrus Valley Rallies Past Redlands in Error-Filled Softball Showdown: After giving up five runs in the first inning, Citrus Valley battled back to edge Redlands High 9–7 in Thursday’s league game. Despite a combined 12 errors between the two teams, clutch hitting and key plays helped the Blackhawks even their league record. Reporter John Murphy breaks down the action, standout performances, and where things stand in the Citrus Belt League. Read the full story.

EVENTS

📌 Sat, April 12, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm - Billion Blossoms Orange Bloom Festival: This spring time event at Old Grove Orange farm (2081 Alessandro Road Redlands) is for aspiring farmers and passionate gardeners, families looking to spend time together outside, Redlands natives who love the smell of orange blossoms and want to be surrounded by one billion blooms. More information and tickets here.

📌 Fri, April 25, 5:45 pm - Film Fest AAUW Redlands: The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Redlands branch will celebrate women in film with a Film Fest on Friday, April 25, at the ESRI auditorium in Redlands. Ticket information here.

📌 Sat, April 26, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Earth Day Celebration: A community-wide celebration featuring more than 30 hands-on projects, workshops and a festival in honor of Earth Day. The event, organized by a coalition of local organizations and businesses begins with morning volunteer projects and workshops throughout Redlands and culminating in a free community festival at Smiley Park. Read more here:

BEFORE YOU GO

📚 Just in time for National Library Week — Moore Middle School has unveiled its newly renovated library, thanks to a nationwide furniture giveaway won by librarian Jenann Elias.

With mobile tables, soft seating, and a fresh new layout, the space is now more flexible and welcoming than ever — ready to host students, teachers, and the entire school community.

Take a peek inside:

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Fount Cycling women take 1-2 in Crafton Hills race