Hello Riverside, and Happy National Taco Day! The Gazette staff is biased because we love meeting there, but Taco Station (4088 Mission Inn Ave) is probably our favorite taco spot in town– just barely squeaking past Taqueria 2 Potrillos (10088 Magnolia Ave). Where will you be celebrating tonight? Reply to this email and let us know your favorite taco place in Riverside.
City Hall celebrates golden anniversary with officials spanning five decades
Ceremony held 50 years to the minute after 1975 dedication launches initiative to bring 50 school tours to newly landmarked building
Councilmember Philip Falcone speaks at Monday's City Hall 50th anniversary celebration, marking five decades since the building's dedication to the people of Riverside.
Riverside celebrated the 50th anniversary of its City Hall on Monday, bringing together the largest group of current and former local elected officials since the building's 1975 dedication.
Driving the news: The ceremony mirrored the original dedication, featuring honor guards and student performances, while launching a year-long initiative to expand access to local government.
Ward 1 Councilmember Philip Falcone announced plans for 50 tours over the next 12 months, starting with Fremont Elementary School on Friday.
Why it matters: The event highlighted City Hall's significance as a symbol of local democracy and its recent designation as a local landmark.
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson emphasized the building's role as "our local version of the People's House."
What's new: The ceremony unveiled a new Raincross sculpture by Rico Alderette.
Nominations open for 40th annual Beautification Awards
Riverside residents can nominate businesses and properties through Nov. 14 across six categories
El Pollo Taco Peruvian Cuisine at Chestnut and University won third place in the Small Business Curb Appeal category of the 2025 Beautification Awards. (Courtesy Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful)
Keep Riverside Clean & Beautiful is seeking nominations for its annual awards honoring businesses and properties that enhance the city's appearance. Winners will be announced at the Mayor's State of the City Address on January 28, 2026.
Driving the news: Nominations are open through November 14 for six categories recognizing excellence in property maintenance, design, and community impact.
Categories include Small Business Curb Appeal, Sustainable Design & Innovation, and Historic and Cultural Preservation.
Why it matters: The awards program encourages community pride and supports local businesses by highlighting properties that elevate Riverside's aesthetic appeal.
Past winner El Pollo Taco Peruvian Cuisine boosted foot traffic to its entire shopping center through improved landscaping and outdoor spaces.
The bottom line: Residents can nominate deserving properties at krcb.com, providing the business name, address, and reasons for recognition.
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