A civil rights advocate and community pillar, Harada opened her home to displaced families after WWII and helped preserve the landmark that now tells her family’s story.
Students from local middle and high schools transformed Main Street into a colorful masterpiece during Chalk Day, showcasing their creativity on the sidewalk canvas. (Courtesy of Riverside Unified School District)
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Thursday Gazette: May 8, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Thursday!
After a string of gloomy days, today’s sunny 87° forecast feels like a well-earned reward. It’s the perfect chance to get outside, soak up some sun, and savor these golden late-spring days before the real summer heat rolls in.
KRCB Seeks 1,000 Volunteers for Riverside Cleanup May 10
City-wide beautification event part of national initiative to remove billions of pieces of litter.
A group of volunteers at the 2023 Great American Cleanup event. (Courtesy of KRCB/Facebook)
Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful is set to host its annual citywide cleanup event on May 10, 2025, as part of the national Greatest American Cleanup initiative. The organization aims to recruit 1,000 volunteers for the event, which will run from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at various sites throughout Riverside.
Driving the news: The local effort contributes to a nationwide campaign aiming to remove 25 billion pieces of litter from the American landscape by July 4, 2026—America's 250th birthday.
Previous KRCB cleanup events have collected thousands of pounds of litter from public spaces across the city.
Why it matters: The event aligns with Riverside's commitment to sustainability and civic engagement, fostering community pride and environmental stewardship.
KRCB has organized community beautification projects since 1992, accumulating over 29,000 volunteer hours.
The details: Volunteers will receive site locations and instructions prior to the event. Following the cleanup, participants will gather at the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce for tool return and a complimentary lunch.
How to get involved: Individuals can register for the May 10 cleanup event at krcb.com or by contacting the organization directly.
KRCB will provide all necessary cleanup supplies and event T-shirts to volunteers.
Remembering Sumi Harada: 25 Years Later, Her Legacy Still Shapes Riverside
A civil rights advocate and community pillar, Harada opened her home to displaced families after WWII and helped preserve the landmark that now tells her family’s story.
Sumi Harada, age 86, pictured in 1996. Her legacy continues to inspire generations through her resilience, community spirit, and contributions to local history. (Courtesy of the Museum of Riverside)
Today marks 25 years since the passing of Sumi Harada, a pivotal figure in Riverside's history and a tireless advocate for civil rights. Harada's legacy continues to inspire and educate, with her family home now serving as a National Historic Landmark.
Driving the news: Harada's life work exemplifies resilience and community service, particularly in supporting Japanese Americans following World War II.
Born on Dec. 25, 1909, Harada died on May 8, 2000, at the age of 90.
Why it matters: Harada's efforts went beyond housing assistance, extending to active involvement in civic organizations and preserving her family's legacy.
She was honored by the YWCA in 1995 for her contributions to the community.
The big picture: The Harada House, now managed by the Museum of Riverside, stands as a testament to the family's story and the ongoing pursuit of justice.
It was designated a city landmark in 1977 and a National Historic Landmark in 1990.
What's next: The Raincross Gazette's history contributor, Glenn Wenzel, offers an in-depth look at Harada's life and enduring impact on Riverside.
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