🍊 Thursday Gazette: July 31, 2025
Perseid meteor shower lights up August nights, new exhibit highlights Riverside’s Koreatown roots, and Dr. J shares back-to-school health tips.

Thursday Gazette: July 31, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Thursday! Summer nights are already magical, but August brings one of nature’s best shows—the Perseid Meteor Shower! Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, this annual event promises plenty of “shooting stars” to wish on.
Fellow Riversiders say some of the best dark spots for viewing include areas around Lake Mathews, Gilman Springs Road, and the Cajalco and Harley John area—or, if you’re up for a bit of a drive, head toward Joshua Tree National Park for even better conditions.
COMMUNITY
New Exhibit Reveals Riverside as Home to America's First Koreatown
'Building Our Region's Korean Communities' exhibit highlights 1905 Pachappa Camp discovery by UC Riverside researcher.

The Inland Empire Civil Rights Institute unveils "Building Our Region's Korean Communities," showcasing Pachappa Camp, the first Koreatown in the U.S., established in Riverside in 1905.
Driving the news: The exhibit, inspired by UC Riverside professor Dr. Edward T. Chang's research, commemorates the 15th anniversary of the Young Oak Kim Center and sheds light on a forgotten chapter of American history.
- Chang discovered the existence of Pachappa Camp while studying a 1908 map of Riverside.
Why it matters: Pachappa Camp served as a refuge for early Korean American pioneers facing discrimination and played a crucial role in Korea's independence movement.
- At its peak, the camp housed 300 Korean Americans and was a base for the Korean National Association.
The big picture: The exhibit highlights the diverse tapestry of American communities and the importance of cultural history in shaping an inclusive future.
- Coordinator Dr. Carol Park emphasizes the exhibit's goal to inspire and showcase America's multiethnic communities.
What's next: The exhibit is open to the public at the Inland Empire Civil Rights Institute in Downtown Riverside, with more information available at inlandcivilrights.org.
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HEALTH
'Dr. J' Shares Back-to-School Health Tips for Local Families
Kaiser's pediatrics chief emphasizes sleep schedules, vaccinations and mental wellness as students return to classrooms.
Dr. Bradley Jacoby, Kaiser Permanente Riverside County's pediatrics chief, emphasizes comprehensive health checkups and routines as students return to classrooms. The back-to-school period offers an opportunity to address physical, mental, and emotional health needs impacting academic success.
Driving the news: "Dr. J" outlines key health priorities for families to implement before the academic year begins in full swing.
- These include adjusting sleep schedules, updating vaccinations, and establishing daily health practices.
Why it matters: Proper health routines can help children feel energized and ready to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
- Unaddressed health issues can lead to missed school days and academic challenges.
The big picture: Dr. J's recommendations cover a wide range of health aspects:
- Sleep: Elementary school children need 9-12 hours nightly, while teenagers require 8-10 hours. • Nutrition: Balanced diets featuring fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins strengthen immune systems. • Physical activity: Children need at least 60 minutes daily through sports, walking, biking, or active play. • Mental health: Regular check-ins and open conversations about emotions are crucial.
Go deeper: Dr. J also emphasizes often-overlooked health screenings that significantly impact academic performance, including vision, hearing, and dental checks.
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Noteworthy
UC Riverside research finds that Black and Latino youth with positive ethnic identity perceptions are more likely to aspire to STEM careers, based on a study of 764 middle and high school students ages 11-17.
The U.S. Postal Service celebrated its 250th anniversary on July 26, it's inviting the public to help shape its future by voting for their favorite stamp design from 25 popular past editions—including Star Wars, Batman, and Mister Rogers—to be reissued in 2026 as part of both the postal service's milestone and the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations.
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What's Happening in Riverside
Today
- Volunteer Interest Hour at Riverside Meals on Wheels, Inc
- Planning Commission at Riverside City Hall
- East Meets West Storyshare at Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California
- Building Our Region's Korean Communities Exhibition Opening at Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern
- Adult Ballet Classes all levels at Riverside Ballet Arts ($25- $144)
Tomorrow
- Courthouse, Murals and Heroes Walking Tour at Mission Inn Foundation ($23.18)
- Less Than Jake - Summer Circus at Riverside Municipal Auditorium ($34)
- Tiny Tots and Pre Ballet at Riverside Ballet Arts ($25- $52)
Save the Date
- August 2: Bingo at the Janet Goeske Center at Janet Goeske Center ($20- $100)
- August 9: Inland Empire Dance Festival at The Box Riverside (free- $25)
- August 22: Goeske Talent Show at Janet Goeske Foundation ($10)
- October 18: The Riverside Citrus Classic Bike Rideat Riverside Plaza ($15- $80)
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