The Magazine of Artful Living
“The Cheech” Now Open in Downtown Riverside
Comedian/Art Collector Cheech Marin is sharing his passion for Chicano art with the world. The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture of the Riverside Art Museum houses, by all estimates, the finest collection of Chicano art anywhere in the world. Marin says the center represents a major step forward in his decade-long mission to bring Chicano art to the forefront of the art world. CLICK IMAGE >>>
FOOD & DRINK
The Marketplace by Fabio Viviani
Fabio Viviani’s new Marketplace at Morongo Casino Resort and Spa is like a buffet “but more civilized,” he says. The food hall-style restaurant allows patrons to eat as much as they want, but servers prepare and plate the portions after orders are placed. Seven global food stations offer a wide variety of choices. www.morongocasinoresort.com
Pictured: Panang Chicken from Sukiru
DO & VIEW
March Field Air Museum
It’s like an air show every day at the March Field Air Museum. Explore humanity’s reach for the skies, learn about the pivotal role of March Field in the development of flight, and see early aircraft—including World War II bombing icons and Cold War fighters. www.marchfield.org
DO & VIEW
Red Hot Chili Peppers Rock Yaamava’ Theater
“Grand” doesn’t begin to describe the opening of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel’s (formerly San Manuel Casino) all new entertainment venue, Yaamava’ Theater. The new venue christened its opening night on April 14 by playing host to a private performance by Grammy-award winning band Red Hot Chili Peppers, in the all new state-of-the-art theater. Photo: Getty Images for Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel
NATIVE INTEL
ONT: It’s a four-peat!
Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest-growing airport in the United States for the fourth consecutive year, based on a survey of frequent travelers by Global Traveler, a leading industry publication geared to business and luxury fliers who travel extensively in the U.S. and abroad. The recognition comes as ONT has seen passenger volumes approach pre-pandemic levels in what has proved to be one of the fastest recoveries among airports nationwide.
GIVING BACK
Call for Kindness Lands in Riverside
“Se amable contigo hoy’ means be ‘kind to yourself today,’” says Riverside Art Museum artist-in-residence Juan Navarro. “If we are able to be kind to ourselves first, then we will be able to pour that kindness into others.” The mural, at 2472 University Ave., was made possible by a grant from Verizon. One of over ten throughout the country, each mural has a QR code that links to “A Call for Kindness.”
NATIVE INTEL
Santa’s Village Playhouses
The whimsical playhouses and gigantic mushrooms that were part of Santa’s Village in Lake Arrowhead years ago have a new home at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. Children and adults alike delight in “Guard Shack,” “Doll House,” “Crooked Treehouse” and the colorful mushrooms that many of us remember from our childhood. Photo courtesy of The Flower Fields
NATIVE INTEL
Riverside National Cemetery
Riverside National Cemetery is the largest and busiest cemetery managed by the National Cemetery Administration. The cemetery was dedicated on Nov. 11, 1978. It is home of the Medal of Honor Memorial, the Fallen Soldier/Veterans’ Memorial, and the Prisoner of War/Missing in Action National Memorial. www.cem.va.gov
FOOD & DRINK
Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar
Watch tortillas roll off the centerpiece tortilla machine at this super popular, family-friendly restaurant. Those hot, fresh tortillas are served alongside mesquite-grilled meats and seafood and regional classics like fajitas, tacos and enchiladas. 10773 Hole Ave., Riverside; (951) 352-0240, www.anchos.net
FOOD & DRINK
Devilicious
What started as a popular food truck has become a popular brick and mortar gastropub in Old Town Temecula. Owner Kenneth Danko describes the menu as “twisted comfort food,” meaning the flavor combinations work on many levels. The menu includes shareables, burgers, sandwiches and salads. 28693 Old Town Front St., Temecula; (951) 506-4024, deviliciouseatery.com
FOOD & DRINK
Pepitos Mexican Restaurant
After pleasing Mexican food aficionados for over three decades in Riverside’s Magnolia Center, Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant is now in Canyon Crest Towne Centre. The dining room features bright colors and original paintings, and the menu reflects the various regions of Mexico. Enjoy favorites, like sizzling fajitas (pictured), combination plates, seafood and more. 5225 Canyon Crest Drive, Riverside; (951) 783-9444, pepitosfood.com
FOOD & DRINK
Time for Strawberries
According to the California Strawberry Commission, a serving of 8 strawberries fulfills the recommended value of vitamin C for an entire day. To make a delicious summer salad, toss together romaine, grilled chicken, walnuts, crumbled goat cheese and sliced strawberries. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette.
THE ARTS
Judith Valles Named Symphony President
The Board of Directors of the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra has elected former San Bernardino Mayor Judith Valles as its new president. Her vision for the organization includes more accessible music and music education. “The arts are the life blood of a community, and I can think of no organization that is more successful in bringing the arts to the Inland Empire than our marvelous Symphony,” she says.
STYLE
Go Tropical with Tommy Bahama & Disney
Enjoy two of your favorite brands at the same time: Tommy Bahama and Disney. The two companies collaborated on a collection that features tropical prints, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and the cool comfort Tommy Bahama is known for. Tees and sweaters, aloha shirts, beach towels and more make up this fun collection. www.tommybahama.com
Do & View: UC Riverside Botanic Gardens
Stroll through the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens for a breath of fresh air and a dose of nature. The 40-acre living plant museum is located on the UCR campus at 1 Botanic Gardens Drive, Riverside. As a part of the campus, the Botanic Gardens is used for teaching, research and demonstration purposes, as well as for enjoyment and appreciation of nature. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted. gardens.ucr.edu
HEALTHY LIVING
Evenings at Glen Ivy
Experience a tropical oasis under the stars featuring wellness packages and more. On Friday through Sunday evenings until October 16, 2022, Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Corona is offering spa-goers an opportunity to unwind in healing mineral pools and Club Mud as the sun sets. Each night also features live entertainment. www.GlenIvy.com Photo by Zack Benson, courtesy of Glen Ivy Hot Springs
ONT, UCR Health Offer Modernized Nursing Stations
Ontario International Airport and UCR Health are providing a welcoming and private place for mothers to nurse their babies when flying through ONT. Nursing stations have been set up in both airport terminals. The partnership showcases ONT’s commitment to the health and safety of the travelers it serves and UCR Health’s commitment to bringing innovative healthcare to the region.
La Sierra University to train more STEM educators
La Sierra University has received a $3 million, five-year Title V grant from the U.S. Department of Education for increasing the number of students who become teachers in STEM subjects, particularly students of Hispanic descent and those from financially challenged backgrounds. READ MORE
SB Symphony Announces Youth Wind Ensemble
The San Bernardino Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble (SBSYWE) is a new music education initiative from the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra, providing a nurturing and creative environment where young musicians can grow musically and holistically through performance. Dr. Nicholas Bratcher (pictured) has been selected to lead the ensemble. READ MORE >>>
Dining: Rok n Fondue
At Rok n Fondue in downtown Redlands, romantics and fun-seekers alike can dip into cheese and chocolate fondues and cook beef, poultry, seafood and vegetarian entrees over a volcanic rock at their table. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and the bar is open 5 p.m. to close. Reservations are recommended for both indoor and outdoor dining. 25 E. State St., Redlands; (909) 793-1919, www.roknfondue.com
Hospital Employee Publishes Children’s Book About NICU Baby
Riverside Community Hospital sterile processing technician Ashley Morehead has written a children’s book inspired by her daughter’s 43-day experience in the NICU. “Kaci’s Adventures (NICU Baby)” is a story told from the perspective of Kaci, a premature baby. The book displays faith, courage and strength as Kaci overcomes obstacles and pushes through to make it home. READ MORE
Slam Dunk Art Project
Local government officials recently joined with Five Star Basketball, Project Backboard and Blue Shield of California to unveil an art mural on the recently renovated basketball court at Elizabeth Davis Park in Colton. The mural was painted by local artist Victor Corral and will serve as the first step in the larger renovation of the park.
Dining: Two Guys Pasta and Pizza
Family run for 30-plus years, this comfortable eatery serves all the dishes we associate with a neighborhood Italian-American restaurant. Dishes to try include lasagna, shrimp scampi and cheese ravioli. Pizzas come in two sizes and can be custom tailored or selected from the menu. The Crew’s Favorite, shown, is topped with chicken, spinach, feta cheese, tomatoes and basil. You’ll also find sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts. 2566 E. Highland Ave.; (909) 862-7700, www.twoguyspizza.net
GIVING BACK
Blood Donations Urgently Needed
Summer months are some of the most difficult for blood collection. Healthy residents can help their community by donating blood in June, July and August. Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome at all LifeStream donor centers and mobile blood drives. 1-800-879-4484, www.LStream.org
Wellness: Sensei Porcupine Creek
Wellness brand Sensei will welcome guests at its highly-anticipated second location, Sensei Porcupine Creek, beginning November 1, 2022. Sensei Porcupine Creek in Rancho Mirage is converting a 230-acre private estate into an ultra-luxury wellness retreat. The setting will feature a small number of hotel rooms and private villas, and will offer similar spa, nutrition, movement and other wellness and sports programs found at its sister property, Sensei Lāna’i, A Four Seasons Resort in Hawaii. www.Sensei.com
DO & VIEW
Scenic View Chair
Snow Valley Mountain Resort in the San Bernardino Mountains doesn’t just offer winter fun. During the warmer months, Snow Valley offers the Scenic View Chair (pictured) for a bird’s eye view of the area, plus lift serviced mountain biking, hiking and special events. www.snow-valley.com
Mill Creek Cattle Co
Mill Creek Cattle Co. in Mentone has been serving barbecued ribs, chicken and steak for more than 30 years. Owners Jim and Maribeth Lotito offer daily specials such as double roast beef, pulled pork, and tri-tip sandwiches, corned beef & cabbage, and prime rib, along with favorites like grilled liver & onions, jumbo gulf shrimp and more. Dine on the patio or take your meal home to enjoy. Call for takeout hours and reservations. 1874 Mentone Blvd., Mentone, (909) 389-0706; www.millcreekcattlecompany.com
NATIVE INTEL
California Theatre of the Performing Arts
Located in San Bernardino, the theatre opened in 1928 as a vaudeville movie palace. It has been inducted into the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historic Resources, and has welcomed celebrities like Bob Hope, Lucille Ball and Rock Hudson. Humorist Will Rogers gave his last public performance there in 1935.
Home Cooking
If you’re running out of healthy things to cook at home, the nonprofit Seeds of Life can help. Founded by Temecula’s Vlada Vladic, the organization produces “Cooking and Kids,” a program that teaches kids to help create healthy family meals. “Cooking and Kids” airs in 39 states and can be seen locally on public television stations KOCT, KCAT and KVCR, and on YouTube. For recipes and more information, see www.vladaseedsoflife.com.
Dining: The Gambling Cowboy
The Gambling Cowboy Chophouse and Saloon is a rustic yet modern restaurant in Old Town Temecula. Expansive views from the third floor deck and the elegant turn-of-the-century decor offer an inviting atmosphere to enjoy appetizers (like Old Town Scampi, shown), Prime and Choice certified Angus beef, fresh seafood and chophouse classics. 42072 5th St., Old Town Temecula; (951) 699-2895, www.ilovethecowboy.com
Inland Empire eateries offering take-out, pick-up or delivery
Enjoy some of your favorite restaurants in the comfort of home. Many Inland Empire eateries are offering take-out, pick-up or delivery. Check their websites and menus for details. Click here for list.
LifeStream Blood Bank goes on appeal for blood donations
LifeStream Blood Bank is going on appeal for blood donations in the wake of a local blood shortage largely resulting from significant increases of scheduled surgeries and other treatments that require blood transfusions. To locate the nearest collection site, including mobile blood drives, go to LStream.org or call 800-879-4484. Click image
DO & VIEW
Babies On Board!
There are babies on board…and lots of them at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. In the new Babies! exhibition, visitors can see baby animals like fuzzy sea otters, tiny cuttlefish that change color, miniature sea jellies and baby sharks. The exhibition runs through April 30, 2023. www.aquariumofpacific.org
Photo by Robin Riggs, courtesy of Aquarium of the Pacific
The IE’s Purrfect Cities for Cat Lovers
Where are the best places for felines to call home? A survey by LawnStarter found 2021’s Best Cities for Cat Lovers by ranking the 200 largest U.S. cities across 11 factors, such as vet access, cost of cat sitting, and cat-friendly rental properties. Orlando, Florida came in 1st, with the Inland Empire’s Corona ranking 8th and Rancho Cucamonga 10th. Los Angeles came in near the bottom at 195. Image by Ty Swartz from Pixabay
Oscar’s Mexican Restaurant
For more than 40 years, Oscar’s Mexican Restaurant in Redlands has been serving home-style Mexican food. The menu includes breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring dishes that range from Huevos Rancheros with Chile Verde to fish platters, like the salmon shown here. While the menu may vary, Oscar’s accommodates a wide range of tastes, including vegan offerings. Now offering outdoor dining and take-out. 19 N. 5th St., Redlands, (909) 792-8211, www.oscarsmex.com
Mario’s Place
Riverside’s Mario’s Place features fine cuisine from Northern Italy. Helmed by chef Leone Palagi, son of one of the original owners, and his brothers, Andrea and Arrigo, the restaurant has also earned Wine Spectator Magazine’s “Best of Award of Excellence” every year since 2004 for its wine list. Patio dining and takeout available Tuesday through Saturday starting at 5 p.m. Call for reservations. 3646 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, (951) 684-7755, www.mariosplace.com
Morongo Resort and Casino
Our luxury Resort & Casino invites guests to experience the thrill of gaming alongside revitalizing pursuits in Spa, Fine Dining, & Legendary Entertainment.
Tribute to Courage
Natalie Wilson, Stephanie Bradhurst and Krista Spangler were among the guests at Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare’s annual fundraiser, the Tribute to Courage Gala. Held at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, proceeds from the gala benefit under-resourced patients at Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare. See more gala photos in the September issue of Inland Empire Magazine.
From the Archives, June 1985:
Inside the Miller Athletic Factory. A special interview with the parents of Reggie, Cheryl and Darrell Miller of Riverside. Click image for full story.
Home Run
How the IE became the Major League’s Talent Pipeline Since the 1900s, around 150 players have come from the Inland Empire.
The Preacher and The Icon
Why a Riverside megachurch pastor went on a biographical journey to discover the untold story of American icon Steve McQueen. Interview: MAKENNA SONES
The New Etiquette
The way we interact with people continues to change in the COVID-19 world. Everything from personal space and petting someone’s dog to tipping and greeting friends and family is all different now and will continue to be different. What are the new social norms we need to abide by? International etiquette and culture expert Sharon Schweitzer, founder of the firm Access to Culture (www.protocolww.com) shares some ideas. Click photo for more.
A Spy Story
In January 1977, a UC Riverside student was arrested in the Inland Empire for acts of espionage he committed with his childhood friend during the cold war. The subject of books and a hit movie, the pair became known as The Falcon & The Snowman. This is their story. Text: JIM SHORT
Master of the Kitchen
For more than 20 years, Spaggi’s has transported patrons from its strip mall location in Upland to a charming café setting like you would find in Italy. Beautiful paintings and cozy tables draped with white linen create an elegant atmosphere for enjoying fine Italian cuisine.