At the Downtown Metrolink Station, a bike waits for its next ride—just in time for National Bike to Work Week. (Luke López)
Tuesday Gazette: May 13, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Tuesday!
We’re rolling into Day 2 of National Bike to Work Week—have you joined the movement yet? It’s a great time to trade your car for a set of wheels, soak up some sunshine, and rethink your commute. And if your ride takes you farther than you'd like to pedal, Metrolink is offering free rides for cyclists this Thursday for Bike Day.
La Sierra University to Inaugurate First Black President
Historic ceremony set for May 20 as Dr. Christon Arthur becomes university's sixth leader.
Dr. Christon Arthur, La Sierra University's sixth president and the first Black leader in the institution's 103-year history, brings a bold vision for transparency, inclusivity, and faith-driven education. (Courtesy of La Sierra University)
Dr. Christon Arthur will be inaugurated as La Sierra University's sixth president on May 20, marking a historic moment as the first Black leader in the institution's 103-year history.
Driving the news: The ceremony, set for 11 a.m. at the La Sierra University Church, will feature campus and community leaders, including Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson.
Andrea Luxton, president emerita of Andrews University, will deliver the inaugural address.
Why it matters: Arthur has already launched initiatives to boost transparency, inclusivity, and community engagement since taking office on July 1, 2024.
He's also invested in strategic marketing and enrollment efforts, and initiated a planning process to refine the university's core purpose.
The big picture: La Sierra University, established in 1922, now offers more than 120 degree programs across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.
The institution continues to be driven by its mission "To Seek, To Know, and To Serve," with a focus on deepening students' relationship with God.
Background: Prior to joining La Sierra, Arthur served as provost at Andrews University in Michigan for eight years, managing a $70 million academic budget and overseeing about 10,000 students.
Trujillo Adobe Earns National Historic Recognition
Riverside landmark unanimously approved for National Register by California State Commission.
Remaining adobe bricks at the Trujillo Adobe beings supported by modern beam additions. (Ken Crawford)
The Trujillo Adobe, Riverside's oldest structure dating to 1862, has been unanimously approved for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places by the California State Historical Resources Commission.
Driving the news: The May 9, 2025, decision marks a triumph for Trujillo family descendants who have worked for over a decade to preserve their ancestral home.
The adobe was named to the National Trust for Historic Preservation's "11 Most Endangered Historic Places" list in 2021, bringing national attention to the cause.
Why it matters: This recognition honors the perseverance of the Trujillo ancestors and their contributions to the region, while preserving a crucial piece of Latino heritage.
The site will be developed for public education and celebration, showcasing the story of Lorenzo Trujillo and the community he established.
The big picture: What began as a grassroots effort has evolved into a community-wide movement, gaining momentum and support over the years.
The annual Riverside Tamale Festival, started in 2013, has been instrumental in raising awareness and funds for preservation efforts.
By the numbers: The preservation effort secured $10.4 million in state funding in 2022 for site development and restoration.
What's next: The Spanish Town Heritage Foundation continues to host monthly tours, volunteer cleanup days, and educational programs at the adobe.
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