> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.raincrossgazette.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # 🍊 Wednesday Gazette: February 12, 2025 - URL: https://www.raincrossgazette.com/wednesday-gazette-february-12-2025/ - Published: 2025-02-12T13:00:22.000Z - Updated: 2026-08-09T02:23:20.000Z - Author: Gazette Staff - Tags: Newsletter, #bulk-2026-08-08 ****Correction.** In last Wednesday's story about [Riversiders advocating for City Council to reconsider undergrounding the previously approved Riverside Transmission Reliability project](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/council-approves-fire-tech-upgrade-amid-calls-to-reconsider-power-line-project/), we incorrectly stated that Mayor Pro Tem Sean Mill directed staff to add the RTRP discussion to a future City Council meeting agenda. In fact, Mill simply closed the meeting after Conder's request for a presentation. This story was written by Justin Pardee while watching a City Council meeting video from home, where he was quite sick. This kind of error is a side effect of being an extremely small newsroom with limited resources; we're working to build systems to ensure these kinds of errors don't slip through the cracks and will continue to prioritize publishing correction notices when they do. **This is the 6th correction in Raincross Gazette's 217-week history and our first correction since January 15, 2025\. We began tracking corrections in January 2025 and placed them at the top of our newsletter to maximize transparency with readers.* ![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2025/02/250212-syc-canyon.jpg) Golden rays break through the clouds, casting a serene glow over Sycamore Canyon. (Brea Deniz) 📸 ****Show Off Riverside's Beauty!** We're proud to feature community photos at the top of our newsletters and on social media—capturing the charm and vibrancy of our city. Got a favorite shot of Riverside? [Share it with us](https://goldstandardca.notion.site/13eef165d2ee80fa91c3de069cc9ec29?ref=raincrossgazette.com) and help us celebrate the beauty of our community! **Wednesday Gazette: February 12, 2025** Hello Riverside, and Happy Wednesday! We've got a jam-packed issue for you this morning, so we'll jump right into it. And as always, we can't do this work alone – if you are aware of newsworthy activity in town, please email [tips@raincrossgazette.com](mailto:tips@raincrossgazette.com) to make sure it's on our radar. And if you know of an event that should be on our calendar, please [add it yourself](https://hub.cityspark.com/event/submission/Raincross?utm%5Fmedium=internal&utm%5Fsource=portal&utm%5Fcampaign=portal-ev-add) (it's free!) or encourage event organizers to publish the event to get it in front of our readers. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2023/12/author_banner-justin-pardee.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/about/) --- Advertisement ([Become an advertiser](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/advertise/)) [![Advertisement](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone_static/169513/image/0?seed=)](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone%5Fstatic/169513/click/0?seed=&ref=raincrossgazette.com) --- #### [BUSINESS](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/business/) ## Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Riverside Find the best places to enjoy romance, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences this Valentine’s Day, from sunset views to a cozy coffee date. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2025/02/RG-Feat-Image-Template-6-1.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/celebrate-valentines-day-in-riverside) Valentine’s Day is almost here, and Riverside has plenty of ways to celebrate. Lock in your love downtown, watch a sunset with a sweet treat, or share something special—whether it’s tacos, cocktails, or a cozy coffee date. For a unique twist, take a romantic tour, pick up a custom bouquet, or try a hands-on experience together. However you spend the day, Riverside has something to make it unforgettable. [Explore Our Full Guide to Valentine's Day in Riverside...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/celebrate-valentines-day-in-riverside) --- #### [EVENTS](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/events/) ## The Dickens Festival Returns Downtown to New White Park Location The February 22nd event has a long history and deep connection with Riverside. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2025/02/240616-albertwhite-07-White-Park.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/the-dickens-festival-returns-downtown-to-new-white-park-location) Vintage postcard depicting Victorian-era White Park. (From the Collection of Glenn Wenzel) The Riverside Dickens Festival is coming back to Downtown Riverside on Saturday, February 22, bringing Victorian-era charm to the city. The event, which celebrates Charles Dickens and the literary culture of his time, will move from the Jensen Alvarado Ranch to White Park. **Driving the news:** The festival's return to Downtown marks a significant moment for Riverside, reconnecting the city with its Victorian roots and cultural heritage. - Councilperson Phillip Falcone expresses excitement about the festival's homecoming, highlighting its importance as a signature downtown event. **Why it matters:** The Dickens Festival offers a unique blend of history, literature, and community engagement, reflecting Riverside's early development and Victorian influences. - The event provides an immersive experience, allowing attendees to step back in time and interact with costumed characters from Dickens' works. **The details:** Festival-goers can enjoy live music, theatrical performances, street artists, and a marketplace offering crafts, books, and gifts. - Tickets are priced at $20 for adults (12 and above) and $35 for couples. **Background:** Founded in 1992, the Riverside Dickens Festival has become a beloved tradition, organized by volunteers passionate about Dickens and history. - The festival celebrates the author who created iconic characters like Oliver Twist and Ebenezer Scrooge, shaping our perception of Victorian England. [Read or share the complete story...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/the-dickens-festival-returns-downtown-to-new-white-park-location) --- #### [SPORTS](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/sports/) ## Arlington Boys Soccer Makes CIF Open Division Playoffs For Second-Year Open division is an elite division and puts Arlington among the best teams in the nation. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2025/02/250211-arlington-soccer-1.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/arlington-boys-soccer-makes-cif-open-division-playoffs-for-second-year-2) AHS Lions celebrating Ivy League Championship. (Courtesy of Arlington HIgh School) Arlington High School's soccer team has secured a spot in the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs for the second consecutive year, solidifying their status as an elite program. **Driving the news:** The Lions have overcome significant challenges, including a more competitive league and the loss of key players, to earn their place among the top teams in the region. - Junior Hugo Chavez has stepped up, leading the team with 19 goals and 14 assists. **Why it matters:** Arlington's inclusion in the Open Division demonstrates their consistent excellence and ability to compete at the highest level of high school soccer. - They join Mater Dei, JSerra, and Mira Costa HS as the only four programs to participate in the Open Division in its first two years. **What's next:** Arlington, seeded 8th, will face top-ranked JSerra Catholic School in the first leg of the CIF Open Division Quarterfinals. - The match is scheduled for Thursday, February 13th, at 6:00 p.m. at Arlington HS. **The bottom line:** Coach Kevin Watson praises his team's resilience and commitment, emphasizing their determination to make Riverside proud in the upcoming playoff battle. [Read or share the complete story...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/arlington-boys-soccer-makes-cif-open-division-playoffs-for-second-year-2) --- #### [NATURALLY RIVERSIDE](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/naturally-riverside/) ## Love, Acorns, and Drama: The Wild Romances of Riverside’s Favorite Woodpecker This Valentine’s Day, take a closer look at the Acorn Woodpecker—Riverside’s most social (and scandalous) bird, where love, family, and survival are all part of the story. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2025/02/RG-Feat-Image-Template-9-1.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/love-acorns-and-drama-the-wild-romances-of-riversides-favorite-woodpecker) (Anish Lakkapragada/Unsplash) With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, love is in the air. Literally, in particular, Riverside’s favorite woodpecker is out and about collecting acorns in anticipation of the mating season. And mating arrangements for Acorn Woodpeckers are the stuff of soap operas. It takes a little background to appreciate the romances of Acorn Woodpeckers and how unusual they are… [Read or share the complete story...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/love-acorns-and-drama-the-wild-romances-of-riversides-favorite-woodpecker) --- #### [NEWS](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/tag/news/) ## Riverside Named as #2 Most-Likely Location For NFL Expansion Critics see adding third team to the Los Angeles market unlikely. [![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b3/b2/b3b29e3b-298e-485f-86ca-3034c21e3784/content/images/2025/02/250210-nfl-AI-1.jpg)](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/riverside-named-as-2-most-likely-location-for-nfl-expansion) An AI-generated illustration of an NFL stadium as seen from atop Mt. Rubidoux, blending fantasy with Riverside’s iconic landscape. (Bob Sirotnik) A new study has ignited excitement among Inland Empire football fans, naming Riverside as a top contender for potential NFL expansion. **Driving the news:** A Windfall study cited by AOL.com ranks Riverside as the second most promising metro area for NFL expansion, behind Austin and ahead of Orlando. - Riverside is currently the largest U.S. metro area without a first-division pro sports team. **Why it matters:** An NFL franchise in Riverside could bring significant economic benefits, boost local businesses, and foster community pride. - The prospect of tailgating traditions and local rivalries has fans buzzing with anticipation. **The challenge:** Riverside's proximity to Los Angeles, home to the Rams and Chargers, raises questions about carving out a distinct fan base in a saturated market. **What's next:** While NFL expansion is a complex process, Riverside's high ranking in the study keeps hope alive for local football enthusiasts. - The conversation is expected to continue until the NFL Draft in April, giving fans plenty to discuss at the water cooler. [Read or share the complete story...](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/riverside-named-as-2-most-likely-location-for-nfl-expansion) --- Advertisement ([Become an advertiser](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/advertise/)) [![Advertisement](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone_static/169515/image/0?seed=)](https://ad.broadstreetads.com/zone%5Fstatic/169515/click/0?seed=&ref=raincrossgazette.com) --- ## Noteworthy Average [Riverside County gas prices jumped 3.1 cents](https://www.nbcpalmsprings.com/2025/02/11/average-riverside-county-gas-price-records-largest-increase-since-april-5?ref=raincrossgazette.com) to $4.555 per gallon this yesterday, marking the largest single-day increase since April and the highest amount since July 31 continuing a two-week upward trend driven by West Coast refinery issues. The RUSD Board has [declined to advance discussions on a controversial parental notification policy](https://riversiderecord.org/rusd-will-not-move-forward-with-discussions-on-parental-notification-policy/?ref=raincrossgazette.com) similar to one adopted by Chino Valley Unified, despite support from Trustee Amanda Vickers. 📣 ****See something? Say something.** Your tips and ideas are what fuel The Raincross Gazette. If you know of something newsworthy happening in our city, please [share it with us](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/contact/). --- ## What's Happening in Riverside ### Today - [Certified Farmers Market](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/certified-farmers-market/12112242/2025-02-12T08) at 10th & Lemon Streets - [Riverside East Rotary Club](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/riverside-east-rotary-club/13565436/2025-02-12T07) at Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern - [Stretch & Dance Class](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/stretch-dance-class/15032946/2025-02-12T09) at Janet Goeske Senior Center - [Commission of the Deaf](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/commission-of-the-deaf/14805601/2025-02-12T17) at Riverside City Hall - [Finance Committee](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/finance-committee/15035838/2025-02-12T15) at Riverside City Hall - [Softball at California Baptist](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/softball-at-california-baptist/14962392/2025-02-12T18) at California Baptist - [Mission Grove Neighborhood Alliance Monthly Meeting](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/mission-grove-neighborhood-alliance-monthly-meeting/15081543/2025-02-12T18) at Orange Terrace Community Center - [One Piece T.C.G. (trading card game) - Beer Wars](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/one-piece-tcg-trading-card-game-beer-wars/15058299/2025-02-12T18) at Euryale Brewing Company ### Tomorrow - [Airport Commission](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/airport-commission/14678658/2025-02-13T15) at Riverside City Hall - [Budget Engagement Commission](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/budget-engagement-commission/14678659/2025-02-13T17) at Riverside City Hall - [Mobility and Infrastructure Committee](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/mobility-and-infrastructure-committee/15035840/2025-02-13T13) at Riverside City Hall - [Planning Commission](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/planning-commission/15035839/2025-02-13T09) at Riverside City Hall - [Rio Da Yung OG](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/rio-da-yung-og-garden-room-rma/14835693/2025-02-13T00) at Riverside Municipal Auditorium ($30 - $50) - [UC Davis Aggies at UCR Highlanders Womens Basketball](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/uc-davis-aggies-at-uc-riverside-highlanders-womens-basketball/14435206/2025-02-13T17) at SRC Arena - [UT Arlington Mavericks at CBU Lancers Womens Basketball](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/ut-arlington-mavericks-at-california-baptist-lancers-womens-basketball/14673759/2025-02-13T18) at Fowler Events Center - [Women's Basketball vs. UC Davis](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/womens-basketball-vs-uc-davis/14962455/2025-02-13T17) at SRC Arena - [Valentine's Paint and Sip](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/valentines-paint-and-sip/14895315/2025-02-13T18) at Tacos al Fuego ### Save the Date - February 19: [Galentine's Day - Women's Health Event](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/galentines-day-womens-health-event/14888201/2025-02-19T09) at Janet Goeske Center - February 28: [Booker T. Washington - Frank A. Miller Tablet Dedication](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/booker-t-washington-frank-a-miller-tablet-dedication-on-mt-rubidoux/14902432/2025-02-28T14) at Mt. Rubidoux Summit - February 28: [DOT by Colman Domingo](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/dot-by-colman-domingo/15093519/2025-02-28T20) at The Box Riverside ($22 - $25) - March 1: [An Evening at the Fox](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/an-evening-at-the-fox/14622643/2025-03-01T00) at Fox Performing Arts Center - March 7: [Pardi Gras Pub Crawl 2025](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/#/details/pardi-gras-pub-crawl-2025/14812205/2025-03-07T17) at Loft 84 Wedding & Event Center ($35) 🗓️ [See More Events](https://www.raincrossgazette.com/calendar/)📝 [Submit Your Event](https://hub.cityspark.com/Event/Submission/Raincross?ref=raincrossgazette.com) 📸 [Submit a photo](http://raincrossgazette.com/submitphoto?ref=raincrossgazette.com) to be featured in our newsletters and social media accounts. 🏆 [Nominate a remarkable Riversider](https://rgnotw.paperform.co/?ref=raincrossgazette.com) as Neighbor of the Week.