Voters will decide June 2 whether to raise the existing Measure Z sales tax to 1.25 percent and remove its 2036 sunset. Here's what's on the ballot, why it's there, and what each side is arguing.
The council reviewed Futrell's performance in closed session Tuesday but took no action, as the city manager publicly defended himself and his wife against allegations that have roiled City Hall since December.
The Janet Goeske Foundation lobbied Sacramento lawmakers April 29, making the case that its Riverside senior center is a model worth replicating statewide.
Peace Tower photo contest, Arcade holiday rewards...
Thursday Gazette: December 11, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Thursday! Amy here.
I grew up on the western side of the Inland Empire; Alta Loma, then Upland. Riverside was just a short drive east on the 60, yet it felt like a whole new world. When my husband and I started searching for our first home, we fell in love with Downtown (more on that coming in 2026). We knew nothing about its history or lore, but we found a charming home built in 1929 that captured our hearts. After many drives and visits, we made the move.
A new friend introduced me to The Raincross Gazette, and it became something I looked forward to: a touchpoint in unfamiliar territory, a trusted source of information for all going on at City Hall and especially during local elections, a calendar that introduced our family to new events and experiences. It helped us become Riversiders.
When I joined the Gazette team in summer 2024 as a copy editor, my role quickly evolved into Content Manager (and occasional writer): building newsletters, managing our community calendar, scheduling contributors, handling social media, and making sure your tips from newsroom@raincrossgazette.com make it into our editorial meetings. One of my favorite parts is working on our Neighbor of the Week features—what an honor to hear the why behind what people do to make this place amazing.
Comments like one we received this week from reader Mark Elliot remind us why this work matters: "No publication even comes close to the detailed coverage the Gazette gives to Riversiders about the things that impact our lives the most, and that's the happenings in Riverside's local city Government. I for one am grateful for this. A big thank you to the entire Gazette staff."
We're working hard every day to bring you accurate, neighborly news. Our year-end campaign is happening now, and becoming a paid member keeps this community newsroom strong for everyone—newcomers finding their way and longtime residents staying connected.
If The Gazette adds value to your life in Riverside, will you join as a member or upgrade your existing membership?
Not ready for monthly commitment? You can also make a one-time contribution.
See you tomorrow!
-Amy López
Contest offers $250 prizes in two categories, with winning entries to be displayed at Mission Inn Foundation exhibit space.
The Peace Tower turns 100 — and a community art contest invites Riverside residents to capture the iconic Mt. Rubidoux landmark.
Why it matters: This is your chance to share how you see the Peace Tower while competing for cash prizes up to $250 and having your work displayed at the Mission Inn Foundation.
What's happening: The Friends of Mt. Rubidoux launched a two-category contest — photography ("Snapshots") and art ("Creative/Open") — with $500 in total prizes.
The prizes:
Contest details:
The big picture: The contest celebrates the Peace Tower's Dec. 13 centennial and is funded by community donations. "We thought this would be a great way to get the community involved and to get the park exposure to people that may not already have a passion for the mountain," said president Glenn Wenzel.
What's next: Winning entries join the "On Peace and Friendship" exhibit at the Mission Inn Foundation (Main and 6th streets) through mid-February. The commemorative walk happens Dec. 13 with a Frank Miller reenactment by Councilmember Falcone.
Full contest rules and centennial events... (3 min. read)
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Daily specials include free ornaments, discounted coffee, holiday drinks, and $500 giveaway entry.
Arcade Coffee Roasters offers daily promotions through Dec. 24 at its three Riverside locations, with chances to win free coffee for a year and a $500 gift card.
Why it matters: If you're a regular at Arcade's downtown, University neighborhood, or Canyon Crest locations, you can snag deals on holiday drinks, discounted coffee bags, and free merchandise — plus enter to win $500 by visiting all 12 days.
What's happening:
The big picture: Arcade makes all seasonal syrups in-house, with six holiday flavors including customer favorites Vanilla Pine and Gingerbread. The Topo Gigio holiday blend — combining Nicaragua and Costa Rica beans — features blueberry, nutmeg and dark chocolate notes.
What's next: Visit all 12 days with $10+ purchases to enter the $500 gift card drawing. Winner announced after Christmas.
Read and share the complete story... (2 min. read)
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The City of Riverside Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department will celebrate the grand opening of the Arlington Pickleball Complex at 10 a.m. on December 13 at Arlington Park, offering free admission with organized play, a tour of the onsite Bourns Family Youth Innovation Center, and light refreshments.
RCC named LaShonda Carter, PhD, as December Faculty Equity Spotlight honoree—an Ethnic Studies associate professor whose research on Black feminisms and racial violence has been published in four academic journals while she leads curriculum development and tri-chairs the Teaching and Learning Leadership Council.
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Goeske Foundation lobbies for expansion funds, More than flowers for Mom...
City Council weighs speed limits, the mayor on how outside partnerships are shaping Riverside's economic future...
Magnolia Avenue's grand design, Dr. Clover's legacy, CBU's theater lineup...
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