Amid the summer lull of browns and grays, the tuxedoed Black Phoebe stands out—active, distinctive and ever-present—embodying Riverside’s resilience and charm year‑round.
In Sunday’s Neighbor of the Week bio, we incorrectly stated that Councilmember Steven Robillard represents Ward 6. He is the Ward 3 Councilmember. Our small team strives for accuracy, but this mistake slipped through during the Independence Day holiday weekend. We appreciate your understanding.
This is the 12th correction in Raincross Gazette’s 234-week history and our first correction since June 26, 2025. We began tracking corrections in January 2025 and placed them at the top of our newsletter to maximize transparency with readers.
Fireworks light up the sky during the final notes of Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever” at the Riverside Philharmonic’s Concert for Heroes. (Carl Bernhardt) Have a photo that captures the spirit of Riverside? Share it with us and help celebrate the beauty of our community!
Tuesday Gazette: July 8, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Tuesday! With this year’s implementation of Riverside Police Department drones watching for illegal fireworks—and instantly issuing fines—we want to hear from you. Was your holiday experience different this year? How did it feel in your neighborhood? We’re looking for real stories from real Riversiders.
Also: we’re officially in full summer mode and want to know—what’s on your Top 5 Riverside summer bucket list? Things to see, do, eat, drink, or experience?
Hit reply—we love hearing from you, and your input is truly invaluable!
State Senator Sabrina Cervantes highlights key investments in California's 2025-26 budget, addressing critical issues despite financial challenges.
Driving the news: The approved budget allocates $39 million to transition 3,000 seasonal Cal Fire firefighters to year-round positions and $70 million for childcare provider cost-of-living adjustments.
The budget aims to create 146,000 new childcare slots by 2028, bringing the total to 200,000.
Why it matters: Cervantes emphasizes the budget's focus on strengthening California while navigating a significant shortfall and "difficult choices" due to federal-level challenges.
The big picture: The budget addresses ongoing issues such as homelessness, climate change, and community threats.
It includes $500 million for the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention Program and $10 million for legal assistance to unaccompanied immigrant children.
What's next: Continued funding for various programs, including the California Dream for All First-time Homebuyers Program, Renters Tax Credit, and Middle Class Scholarships.
Opinion: A Glimpse Into the Future of Transportation — Without a Steering Wheel
A quiet ride through the Riverside Airport hints at a bold future: Ohmio’s self-driving electric shuttles are bringing autonomous public transportation to the city—starting slow, but aiming big.
A quiet revolution in motion: Ohmio’s autonomous shuttle loops through Riverside Airport with no steering wheel, no driver and a whole lot of potential. (Erik Chen)
Ohmio's autonomous vehicles are now operating at Riverside Airport, offering passengers a glimpse into the future of transportation. The New Zealand-based company, which recently moved its global headquarters to Riverside, is piloting electric shuttles on a short loop around the airport.
Driving the news: The driverless shuttles, currently limited to 15 mph due to regulations, provide a 10-minute roundtrip experience without a steering wheel or driver's seat.
Ohmio plans to expand its pilot program to UC Riverside and downtown later this year.
Why it matters: The technology aims to make transportation more accessible to everyone, according to Zayn Mashat, Ohmio's director of business development.
The smooth, uneventful rides suggest autonomous vehicles could soon become part of daily life in Riverside.
What's next: Ohmio hopes to increase speed limits as testing continues, always prioritizing safety and control.
The company's expansion could mark a new chapter in Riverside's transportation landscape.
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