The Magazine of Artful Living
28th Annual Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation Gala is going virtual!
The COVID-19 pandemic has made unbearable circumstances only worse as children of the Inland Empire are disproportionally affected by abuse, neglect, and other adverse childhood experiences. Loma Linda University Children’s Health is dedicated to caring for all children. This year’s virtual gala, Thursday, April 8, 2021, will include inspirational stories, auction packages, opportunity drawings and more. lluch.org/28th-annual-childrens-hospital-gala
Where to Find Banh Mi Sandwiches
Meaning “bread” in Vietnamese, banh mi also refers to a sandwich that combines the perfect blend of ingredients. It starts with a baguette that’s crispy on the outside, but airy inside. Fillings vary, but typically include seasoned vegetables and savory meat. For an easy recipe to make the sandwich at home, see the April 2021 issue of Inland Empire Magazine. Or check out these local eateries and stores. >>>
Visit: Temecula
Throughout wine country, miles of trails beckon hikers, cyclists and horseback riders to explore the rolling hills and vineyards the city is famous for. Food and wine lovers will find many culinary and wine tasting gems. Pack a picnic, order take-out, or dine alfresco at one of the restaurants. The area is well known as one of California’s top hot air ballooning sites, offering sunrise and sunset flights over the vineyards. VisitTemeculaValley.com
Free In-Person Fair Foodie Fest
Love fair food? Head out to the in-person fair foodie fest in Ontario’s Toyota Arena parking lot, April 3-25. Only credit cards will be accepted for this event filled with fair food for purchase, like giant turkey legs, deep fried cookie dough, funnel cakes, cotton candy, kettle corn, Mexican curly fries and colossal onion rings. Brand new is a BBQ Zone featuring ribs, chicken, pulled pork sandwiches and more. www.toyota-arena.com
Visit: Idyllwild
If you like the fresh mountain air but want to avoid the crowds at other popular spots, Idyllwild is your new mountain playground. Located in the San Jacinto Mountains, you can hike to Suicide Rock or Tahquitz Peak for great views. For an easier hike, walk along Lake Fulmor or fish for rainbow trout. Idyllwild Regional Park offers five trails, a rock climbing course, and picnic spots. Accommodations include Grand Idyllwild Lodge. VisitTemeculaValley.com
April Is Stress Awareness Month
Feeling stressed out? You’re not alone. According to the American Psychological Association’s Stress in America 2020 Survey, nearly 67% of Americans say their stress levels have increased over the course of the pandemic. April is Stress Awareness Month, the perfect time to examine your stress level and learn strategies for coping with this silent scourge. Stress relief is within reach. READ MORE >>>
CHARITY PROFILE: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & the Inland Empire
For years, Jennifer O’Farrell worked with children who were victims of violence, poverty and trafficking. “I always asked, ‘How can we prevent this? What if someone early on in the child’s development could pivot their trajectory?’ I believe Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire is the vehicle to do just that.” CLICK IMAGE
Dining: Anchos Southwest Grill & Bar
Tortillas roll off the tortilla machine at this super popular, family-friendly restaurant. Those to-die-for tortillas are served alongside mesquite-grilled meats and seafood and regional classics, like fajitas and enchiladas. Open since 1989, the secret to the restaurant’s longevity is listening to the customers. “Guests always tell me not to change anything, and that’s what we do,” co-owner Dean Bergstrom says. 10773 Hole Ave., Riverside; (951) 352-0240, www.anchos.net
Dining: 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 upscale comfort food menu includes the Devilicious Burger (pictured) and other items, like Truffle Parmesan Fries, Short Rib Melt and Baja Lobster Tacos. 28693 Old Town Front St., Temecula; (951) 506-4024, deviliciouseatery.com
Rancho Cucamonga Community & Arts Foundation
Involved in the arts, particularly the performing arts, her entire life, Susan Sluka Kelly jumped at the chance to become the first executive director of the Rancho Cucamonga Community & Arts Foundation (RCCAAF) in 2018. The mission of the RCCAAF is to raise funds to support, expand and advance art and cultural opportunities for school children and the community. CLICK IMAGE
Dining: Pepitos Mexican Restaurant
After pleasing Mexican food aficionados for more than three decades in Riverside’s Magnolia Center, Pepito’s Mexican Restaurant is now located in the Canyon Crest Towne Centre. The festive dining room features bright colors and original paintings, and the menu reflects the various regions of Mexico. Enjoy classic favorites, like sizzling fajitas (pictured), combination plates, seafood and house specialties. Don’t forget flan for dessert. 5225 Canyon Crest Drive, Riverside; (951) 783-9444, www.pepitosfood.com
Inspire Life Skills
Growing up in foster care isn’t easy. Often, it doesn’t get much better when foster kids turn 18 and age out of the system. Corona’s Kristi Perez wanted to do something to give those young people the chance to succeed. CLICK IMAGE
Foster Army Animal Rescue
“Everyone likes to see an underdog win,” says Michelle Risser, board president of Riverside’s Foster Army Animal Rescue (FAAR), which rescues, treats and rehabilitates vulnerable and special needs companion animals. As such, “we rescue a lot of underdogs,” she says. CLICK IMAGE
Garner Holt Education through Imagination
Garner Holt Productions, Inc. is the world’s largest producer of theme park animatronics. The industry giant, based in Redlands, has launched a unique education company focused on STEM. CLICK IMAGE
Jacob’s House
In October 2006, Shawn and Stephanie Nelson of Temecula got the phone call no parent ever wants to receive. Their 24-year-old son, Jacob, had been in a car accident in San Diego County and was in critical condition at a hospital there. They raced to his side taking nothing with them. They had no idea how long they might be away from home. Sadly, Jacob passed away, but the experience led the Nelsons to take action. CLICK IMAGE
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 spring 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 collection, available at Tommy Bahama stores, fine department stores and select specialty retailers, and online. www.tommybahama.com
Local Restaurants Can Offer Indoor Dining
SoCal counties have transitioned from the Purple Tier to the less restrictive Red Tier. Restaurants and movie theaters may return to indoor operations up to 25% capacity or 100 people (whichever is fewer). Gyms and fitness centers may return indoors up to 10% capacity. Retail stores and shopping malls may increase capacity to 50%. And, museums, zoos and aquariums may return indoors up to 25% capacity. However, residents need to continue to follow all safety protocols.
Wingz takes off at Ontario International Airport
Passengers now have another convenient option to reach Ontario International Airport (ONT) with the addition of ride-app Wingz to the airport’s ground transportation program. Ontario airport officials permitted the new service, authorizing Wingz drivers to provide curbside service for departing and arriving passengers at both ONT terminals. FOR MORE OF THE STORY, CLICK IMAGE
Provecho Grill
Provecho Grill in Menifee is known for its vibrant decor and menu. Guests can enjoy their meal on the outdoor patio. The menu includes authentic Mexican dishes, including sizzling fajitas. Provecho Grill is owned by award-winning chef Rosie O’Connor, who has appeared on the Cooking Channel and competed on the Fox television show “Hell’s Kitchen.” Check the website for hours and dining options. 26862 Cherry Hill Blvd., Menifee, (951) 246-3200, www.provechogrill.com
CSUSB launches School of Entrepreneurship first in California
With the start of the 2020 fall semester, California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB) will launch the School of Entrepreneurship, the first of its kind in California. The unique program, one of less than 15 existing worldwide, will boost the university’s already highly successful entrepreneurship program. For more of the story, click image
Local Mom Promotes Childhood Trauma Recovery
Elizabeth Peace of Murrieta was named United State of America’s (USOA) Mrs. Riverside County 2020 and will go on to compete for the state title in Brea, Calif., Dec. 4-6. A Marine Corps spouse, Navy employee and child advocate, Peace is using her title as Mrs. Riverside County to promote her platform, “Peace Talks: The Power of Your Voice,” to encourage survivors of childhood trauma to speak out and tell their story as a form of healing. For More of the Story, Click Image
Cahuilla Teen Isabella Madrigal Receives 2020 Heart of Inlandia Award
Inlandia Institute has named Isabella Madrigal recipient of the 2020 Marion Mitchell-Wilson Heart of Inlandia Award for her outstanding literary and cultural contribution to the Inland Empire. She will be formally recognized during a virtual reception on Saturday, September 5, 2020 at 1 pm. RSVP required: https://tinyurl.com/InlandiaPandemicPicnic. For more of the story, click image
Teresa Rhyne Writes the Book on Finding a Lost Dog
When she’s not helping clients, Riverside attorney Teresa Rhyne is rescuing dogs. Beagles are her weakness. Which is why she couldn’t say no when adorable beagle Poppy needed a temporary home. Then Poppy escaped into Riverside’s Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. Not one to give up, Rhyne hiked in 1,500 rugged acres, spent nights outside, and enlisted an intrepid team of dog rescue experts whose motto is “do not chase!” Find out how Poppy found her way home in Rhyne’s book, Poppy in the Wild, out Oct. 6. pegasusbooks.com
Rustico Ristorante and Pizzeria
Rustico Ristorante and Pizzeria in Murrieta is celebrating its 16th anniversary. Owned by chef Francesco Cusimano and his wife, Filippa, the popular restaurant serves authentic Italian dishes—from comforting pasta to delectable entrees like linguine frutti di mare, along with gourmet pizza, sandwiches, and dessert. Cusimano also offers an assortment of healthy dishes, like grilled vegetable penne and salmon and veggies. Enjoy your meal with a selection from the ample wine list. Open for outdoor dining and take-out. Check the website for hours. 29940 Hunter Road, Murrieta. (951) 698-5151, www.iloverustico.com
Red Cross Needs Inland Empire Volunteers
The American Red Cross needs volunteers to help in Riverside and San Bernardino counties during an expected busy wildfire season. “The coronavirus pandemic will make it challenging to deploy trained disaster volunteers from other parts of the country should an emergency occur. The Red Cross is asking you to be ready to help your community,” says Sean Mahoney, regional CEO of the American Red Cross Southern California Region. Help is needed at evacuation shelters and to assist with blood drives. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/volunteertoday.
Ontario Adds Museum Website to its Virtual Offerings
From free movies at the airport to a virtual battle of the bands, online exercise classes to a customized new art museum website, the City of Ontario is providing socially-distant entertainment and recreational options for residents. A Virtual Community Life & Culture Resource Center was created online (www.ontarioca.gov/VirtualCenter) providing video tutorials, virtual workouts, library and educational links, and other resources to help residents maintain healthy lives and stay connected while at home. The Ontario Museum of History & Art has now gone virtual, too, with a new website offering a virtual tour, and facts and photos of exhibits past and future. www.ontariomuseum.org
Temecula Resident Part of ‘The Gathering Table’
Annie Boyd grew up in a family of five Iowa farm women. She recently transplanted to Temecula but still runs the business she and her relatives founded called The Gingham Apron. In October, they release their first book about gatherings throughout the seasons of life—from tailgate parties to ladies’ brunches. Filled with beautiful photography and inspirational writing, ‘The Gathering Table’ follows this Iowa farm family through a year of family gatherings, complete with menus, recipes, devotional readings and plenty of ideas for entertaining and enjoying life—together! www.bakerpublishinggroup.com
King Kabob
For more than a decade, Haroon Ali and his family have owned Lake Elsinore’s King Kabob, serving an assortment of Middle Eastern dishes. The menu features favorites like the beef shish kabob plate, pictured, as well as lamb chops, burgers, wraps, appetizers and vegetarian items. Many dishes are accompanied by white and saffron-flavored rice. 31712 Casino Dr., Lake Elsinore, (951) 245-5999. For dining options, see www.kingkabobhealthygrill.com
Frontier Airlines adds to ONT schedule in 2021
Ontario International Airport (ONT) officials cheered news from Frontier Airlines that the low-cost carrier will add service to seven popular U.S. destinations in early 2021. Frontier will begin new service to Phoenix, Sacramento, San Francisco and Chicago between February and May. The frequency of flights to Phoenix is scheduled to increase to four per week in March, with flights to Sacramento and San Francisco increasing to four per week beginning in May. The Denver-based carrier will also restart flights suspended because of the COVID-19 pandemic to Las Vegas, Orlando and Miami between February and April.
The Gambling Cowboy
Hungry for a hearty steak or seafood dinner in Old Town Temecula? Come to The Gambling Cowboy Chophouse & Saloon. The casual-fine restaurant is a staple for Prime and Choice certified Angus beef, fresh seafood and chophouse classics. Guest favorites include The Gambler signature ribeye steak. Visit the website for current hours. Guests may enjoy outdoor dining or place orders to-go. 42072 5th St., Old Town Temecula; (951) 699-2895, www.ilovethecowboy.com
Stater Bros. Supports Fallen Patriots
Stater Bros. Charities is partnering with PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) to contribute $50,000 to the Fallen Patriots Foundation to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to children who have lost a military parent in the line of duty. The funds will help the families of service members who have died as a result of combat casualties, military training accidents, service related illnesses, and suicide, as well as other duty-related deaths as ruled by the Department of Veterans affairs.
Inland Empire United Way and United Way of the Inland Valleys Merge
Inland Empire United Way and United Way of the Inland Valleys have served neighboring communities for many years, as seen in this 2019 fundraiser photo, but leaders agreed a single organization could have a greater regional impact. The groups joined forces to become Inland Southern California United Way. Partnership between the two United Ways established the Inland SoCal COVID-19 Fund helping those affected by the pandemic through direct assistance payments. The Fund’s successes include a $4 million anonymous donation, and support from local companies. www.inlandsocaluw.org/faq
Two Guys Pasta and Pizza
Family owned for more than 30 years, Two Guys Pasta and Pizza in Highland serves traditional Italian like baked lasagna, shrimp scampi, and 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. www.twoguyspizza.net
Take A Peek at Sammy’s Mountain Chateau
Sammy “The Red Rocker” Hagar’s Lake Arrowhead home is on the market. The French chateau-style 6,557-sqaure-foot home was built in 2009 from granite-and-limestone boulders cut and carved onsite. Along with stunning views of the water, the eight-bedroom home includes 10 baths and parking for six cars. To see more images of the home by Peter Tran Photography, courtesy of TopTenRealEstateDeals.com, click image.
Smokey Canyon BBQ
Since opening Smokey Canyon BBQ in Riverside’s Canyon Crest Towne Centre in 2007, Dan and Pam Nusser have served the best of America’s “Barbecue Belt” through an array of menu options. St. Louis style ribs, tri-tip, pulled pork sandwiches, barbecue chicken pizza and homemade desserts are just a few of the items that will satisfy your craving for delicious barbecue. Check out the menu, hours, and dining options at www.smokeycanyon.com
UC Riverside Botanic Gardens Is Open
Stroll through the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens for a breath of fresh air and a dose of nature. New safety restrictions are in place for the 40-acre living plant museum, 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. Collections include more than 3,500 plant species and thousands of specimens from around the world. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted. gardens.ucr.edu
Maloof Discovery Garden Open for Self-Guided Tours
The Sam and Alfreda Maloof Foundation in Alta Loma pays tribute to artisans and craftspeople, including noted woodworker Sam Maloof and his wife, artist Alfreda Maloof. Currently, self-guided tours of the art-filled Discovery Garden plus exterior areas of the Maloof Historic Home and Workshop are available on Saturdays. At this time, tours of the Historic Home interior or access to the Jacobs Education Center Gallery are not available. Timed-entry tickets must be purchased in advance. malooffoundation.org
RMCCF College Scholarship Recipients
Riverside Medical Clinic Charitable Foundation (RMCCF) has awarded ten $500 scholarships to Riverside County high school juniors and seniors who plan to pursue a degree in the health care field. The RMCCF College Scholarship provides recognition and financial support to students entering any health care field within Inland Southern California. Click image
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
Ontario International Airport adds PPE kiosks in passenger terminals
In its ongoing effort to protect customers, visitors and employees from potential coronavirus infection, while adding a new level of convenience during what can be a particularly stressful time for passengers, Ontario International Airport (ONT) is making personal protective equipment available to those who travel through and visit the Southern California airport. Click image
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.
The Pink Ribbon Place resumes counseling services with expanded access
The Pink Ribbon Place, a cancer resource center and program of Riverside Community Health Foundation, has expanded its counseling services through a partnership with Central Counseling Services and support of Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, Riverside and ongoing commitment from San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. The organization provides free programs and services that support, educate and inspire hope. Click image
Help for Stress and Anxiety
A new app developed by Riverside University Health System - Behavioral Health provides text support along with referrals to community resources. Riverside County residents experiencing the stress and challenges surrounding the coronavirus pandemic have free access to live support via text chat from peer support specialists and counselors through a new computer and smartphone app called TakeMyHand.co. (Note that the URL is a .co and not a .com site.) See rivcoph.org/coronavirus for more information.
New Bolero Winery offers Spanish wine experience in Temecula
Bolero Winery in Temecula is now open, part of the Europa Village complex at 33475 La Serena Way. “The next chapter in the Europa Village story has arrived, and it’s a fully immersive experience into Spanish wine,” says Europa Village Owner Dan Stephenson. “Bolero’s stunning private casitas, restaurant, boutique and tasting room will provide our guests and visitors a chance to step into Spain, right here in Temecula Valley, and we look forward to welcoming them to create unique Wine Country moments.” www.europavillage.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
California Botanic Garden Is Open
Claremont’s California Botanic Garden is open to the public with measures in place to protect the health of visitors and staff. Visitors are asked to wear masks, and other protective measures include timed-ticket entry, limited visitation, touchless ticket sales, increased sanitization and social distancing. The 86-acre Garden is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 to 8 p.m. Hours may vary when the temperature is above 97°F. www.calbg.org
Spaggi’s
Spaggi’s fine dining Italian restaurant in Upland is offering outdoor dining as well as pre-order curbside pick up. Owned by Chef Henry Gonzalez and his wife, Ana, the restaurant serves dinner Tuesday through Sunday starting at 5 p.m. Enjoy refined cuisine as well as heart-healthy options, like broiled salmon on fresh uncooked spinach with bruschetta and goat cheese, served with toasted bread points. 1651 W. Foothill Blvd., Upland, (909) 579-0497, spaggis.com
Mask Matters
Keep your germs to yourself while supporting a local business and essential workers. When you buy a mask from Riverside’s I Love IE, owner Justin Hudson of Riverside will donate a mask to an essential worker. Hudson launched I Love IE several years ago as an online store that focused on clothing and accessories which promote the Inland Empire. Now in the Galleria at Tyler in Riverside, his shop, like many others, has been closed for walk-in business, but is alive and well online. See 1lovie.com. Click on photo for more.
Challenge Coins with a Cause
Pin-Ups for Vets, the national nonprofit founded by the Inland Empire's Gina Elise has challenge coins available for pre-order. The coins, $18 each, come in two styles. Pin-Ups For Vets raises funds to improve veterans' healthcare, donates funds to VA hospitals for medical equipment and program expansion, promotes volunteerism at veterans hospitals, and boosts morale for deployed troops through delivery of care packages, according to the group's website. www.pinupsforvets.com
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.
Tastes of the Day
Seafood isn’t the only thing Chris and Kelly Cusack serve at their Temecula restaurant, Luke’s On Front, but they certainly do it well. The Seafood Pasta, above, is just one example.