In Monday’s article, the headline incorrectly stated that the Budget Engagement Commission approved $62 million for a new police headquarters. The commission does not have the authority to approve or disapprove funding. It reviewed and discussed the proposal as part of its advisory role.
This is the 10th correction in Raincross Gazette’s 232-week history and our first correction since March 28, 2025. We began tracking corrections in January 2025 and placed them at the top of our newsletter to maximize transparency with readers.
A SpaceX Falcon 9 streaks across the dusk sky above Canyon Crest after launching 26 Starlink satellites on Monday, June 16. (Sheri Harris)
Wednesday Gazette: June 18, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Wednesday! Heads up, neighbors—if you catch the scent of smoke in the air this week, don’t worry. The Riverside Fire Department is conducting prescribed burns in the Sycamore Canyon area June 17–19 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. These planned burns are part of a strategic effort to manage vegetation and reduce the risk of wildfires. You may notice some drift smoke, but it’s all part of keeping our city safer.
Riverside Organizations Host Juneteenth Events Celebrating History and Emphasizing Ongoing Struggle
B.L.A.C.K. Collective and Inland Civil Rights present celebrations this week combining historical reenactments, performances and calls to action.
Reading the Emancipation Proclamation/H.W. Herrick, del., J.W. Watts, sc. (Library of Congress)
Two Riverside groups are organizing Juneteenth events this week, offering historical reenactments, live performances, and cultural celebrations.
Driving the news: The B.L.A.C.K. Collective's 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration and the Inland Civil Rights organization's "Rhythm in Action" program aim to commemorate the end of slavery while addressing ongoing struggles for equality.
Both events feature local Black artists, vendors, and community voices.
Why it matters: Organizers frame the celebrations as acts of remembrance and resistance, highlighting the continued fight for true liberation and economic empowerment.
Denise C. Booker of The B.L.A.C.K. Collective says, "We are tired of empty gestures, forgotten promises, and the illusion of inclusion."
The details: The B.L.A.C.K. Collective's event is on June 21 at Hunt Park, while the Inland Civil Rights organization's program is on June 19.
Activities include historical reenactments, African libation ceremonies, and performances by local Black artists.
Go deeper: Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops announced the end of slavery in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
MLK Graduate Joseph Or Takes Leadership Philosophy to Yale
From founding debate club to pioneering climate education research, the incoming Yale freshman has spent four years creating opportunities and driving change.
King High graduate, Joseph Or holding Yale pennant. (Erik Chen)
Joseph Or, a recent Martin Luther King High School graduate, is headed to Yale University with a track record of leadership and environmental advocacy. His high school career was marked by founding clubs, spearheading initiatives, and contributing to statewide curriculum development.
Driving the news: Or's accomplishments span from leading Speech and Debate and Model UN clubs to conducting climate education research and policy work at major institutions.
He became the youngest credited contributor to a California Department of Education-sponsored curriculum.
Why it matters: Or's journey exemplifies the power of student initiative and the impact young leaders can have on their communities and beyond.
His work on racial disparities in climate education has already influenced curriculum design across the Inland Empire.
The big picture: At Yale, Or plans to major in Ethics, Politics, and Economics on the pre-law track, building on his high school experiences.
He encourages other students to create their own opportunities and "be an agent of initiative and change."
What's next: As Or prepares for Yale, he remains open to exploring new passions and continuing his path of self-improvement.
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