Riverside Magazine

Ready foR the holidays?

top this!❄ downtown gets its glow on ❄ oven-made delights ❄ seasonal tastes and memories

RIVERSIDECITY LIFE & FINE LIVING

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FEATURES

8 Downtown, where all the lights are bright …Step out, step off, step in and enjoy the wonder of the holidays with Riverside’s own special downtown celebration the Festival of Lights. (While you’re there, do some shopping and have dinner.)Festival of Lights advertising supplement 17-20

14 the Fox: Fab at 5In some cities, a $32-million theater renovation might be viewed as a risk at best. But in Riverside, residents and city off icials see the Fox as a venue to celebrate the performing ar ts and the city’s heritage. It hasn’t all been easy since Sheryl Crow’s inaugural concert f ive years ago, but the shows, like the audiences, keep growing.

23 & 26 Can you taste it? The holidays bring many memories and f lavors to mind. We asked local chefs and restaurateurs to share some of their favorite tastes and traditions.

28 Don’t knoCk wooD Don’t tell anyone, but the Wood Streets area is one of our favorite neighborhoods. A collection of beautiful homes in mixed styles along with neighbors invested in their community and greater Riverside, it stands out as a great place to live.

34 Meet the Claras — both oF theM

Two young women share the role of Clara in the Inland Pacif ic Ballet’s “Nutcracker.” Both hail from Southern California and each aspires to a long career on stage.

deceMbeR 2014 - januaRy 2015 • VOLu Me 7, I S Sue 6

B R o u g h T T o y o u B y :

Ron HassePuBLIShER & CEo

Don SproulMANAgINg EDIToR

Jerry RiceEDIToR

Jim MaurerV.P. SALES & MARKETINg

Lynda e. baileySALES DEVELoPMENT DIRECToR

cOnTRIbuTInG WRITeRS & edITORS

Amy Bentley, Luanne J. hunt, george A. Paul

edITORIaL GR aphIc deS IGn

Steve ohnersorgen

Rick SforzaPhoTo EDIToR

phOTOGR apheRS

Thomas R. Cordova, Will Lester

Frank Perez, Eric Reed

Tom paradis, jack StorrustenSALES MANAgERS

adVeRTI S InG SaLeS e XecuTIVeS

Carla Ford-Brunner, Willie Merriam

Bobbi Meyer, Adil Zaher

SaLeS aSS I STanTS

Flo gomez, Dixie Mohrhauser

Maria Rodriguez, Victoria Vidana

MaRkeTInG

Veronica Nair, ginnie Stevens

LanG custom publishing

Frank pineEXECuTIVE EDIToR

bryan MuldoonV.P. oF CIRCuLATIoN

CoNTACT uS

Editorial: 909-386-3015; fax 909-885-8741

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RIVERSIDEM A G A Z I N E

A PUBLICATION

PRINTED By SouThWEST oFFSET PRINTINg

contents

depaRTMenTSFrom the Editor 6Calendar 10Seen 32 , 33Save the date 33

on the coverThe Christmas tree at the Riverside Convention Center Photo by Eric Reed

cOnnecT WITh uS !

Follow us on Twitter @riversidemag and Facebook facebook.com/riversidemagazine to be among the first to know what we’re planning for future issues. have a question or story suggestion? Tweet us!

4 | riversidethemag.com | december 2014 - january 2015

The Riverside Convention Center Culinary Artistry and Innovation

3637 Fifth Street at MainRiverside, CA 92501

[email protected] or call (951) 346-4700.

Executive Chef Brad Martin - Contestant, ABC’s THE TASTE

“This is utterly delicious!” Anthony Bourdain, Judge/Mentor

Forbes Riverside Ranked #8 Coolest City in America and # 2 Millennial Boomtown

I t’s shaping up to be another, ahem, tree-mendous holiday season in Riverside with beautifully decorated

trees springing up all over. several are making return engagements…

• A two-story live tree will f ill the lobby of the Mission inn hotel & spa starting nov. 28, the same day as the “switch-on” ceremony for the Festival of Lights. (Quick fact: to keep the display fresh, a similar-sized replacement will be brought in two weeks later.)

• The annual Christmas party at California Baptist University will include snow for sledding and friendly snowball f ights, holiday music, cookie-decorating and the lighting of a Christmas tree on the front lawn of the campus. the community is invited to take part in the festivities on Dec. 4 from 7-9:30 p.m.

• At Riverside Plaza, the shopping

center’s tree-lighting ceremony on Dec. 5 from 6-8 p.m. will include the arrival of Santa Claus

• Not one but 50 decorated trees will be on display thanksgiving week for the Riverside County Regional Medical Center Foundation’s Festival of trees, a benefit that raises funds for much-needed medical equipment. (For details, see page 12.)

Also at Convention Center, a new tree is making its debut: a 16-foot-tall beauty appointed with large, colorful Christmas ball ornaments, ribbons and lights. it’s positioned in the tower space under the custom chandelier, which nicely doubles as a tree-topper — at least that’s the visual perspective our photographer, Eric Reed, came away with for this issue’s cover.

trees of all types in all types of places — wonderful additions to the holiday season. Fir real.


from the edItor

Jerry [email protected], @JerryRice_iE

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february-march 2013 | riversidethemag.com | xx

Powered By Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau

Experience Christmas on EuclidFriday, December 5th, 2014 –

Friday, January 2nd, 2015

at the Christmas on Euclid Experience.A month-long festival of sparkling lights, seasonal displays,

an outdoor skating rink and more!

Delight in the magic of the holidays

Ontario’s historic Euclid Avenue will be transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland with block-upon-block of twinkle lights, musical merriment and good cheer. Be sure to stop by the Craft Fair on December 6th to partake in the holiday crafts, food and festivities. Christmas on Euclid Experience is an annual holiday experience you and your family won’t want to miss!

For information: 800-455-5755

merry & bright

Festival oF

sightsMission Inn’s elaborate display illuminates the holiday season

Written by Luanne J. HuntPhotos courtesy Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

Fireworks shoot skyward during the Festival of Lights “switch-on” ceremony at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. Below, beautiful decorations are reflected in the hotel’s pool.

december 2014 - january 2015 | riversidethemag.com | xx

Downtown RiveRside will be all aglow with the spirit of Christmas during the 22nd annual Festival of Lights at the Mission inn Hotel & spa. the six-week event, which begins with the popular “switch-

on” ceremony the day after thanksgiving, has one of the largest collections of Christmas lights anywhere in the United states.

started by duane and Kelly Roberts, owners of the historic landmark, the festival has 4 million lights, more than 400 animatronic characters and lots of other decorations that takes a crew of 20 workers about 10 weeks to set up.

Childhood memories of family outings looking at neighborhood Christmas displays inspired duane Roberts to host the celebration.

“i have to applaud my husband for making this event like a disneyland for everyone,” said Kelly Roberts.

during its run, the festival attracts about 300,000 visitors each year, including Lisa Rodriguez and her family. they were introduced to the celebration in 2010, after an invite from Rodriguez’ mother, and since then it has become their favorite holiday tradition.

“My mother passed away after that year but she just loved going to the Festival of Lights,” said Rodriguez. “we love it too and are always amazed at how beautiful all the lights are. there are also so many other great things to see and do, so i can’t think of a better way to kick off the holidays.”

Festival oF

sightsMission Inn’s elaborate display illuminates the holiday season

thousands of holiday lights add a special touch to the nighttime dining experience.


LAKE ALICE TRADING CO. THROUGH SEPT. 27 – David Paul Band (classic rock, today’s hits), Nov. 28; Trainwreck (classic rock), Nov. 29; Dream Karaoke, Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22; Skunk Dub (reggae), Dec. 4; Factory Tuned Band (classic rock), Dec. 5; Runnin’ on Funk (funk, today’s hits), Dec. 6; Hart Bothwell (original music), Dec. 9; Gavin Davies Band (cover band), Dec. 10; The Groove (classic rock), Dec. 12; Gravity Guild (classic and alternative rock), Dec. 13; Little George Acoustic (acoustic covers), Dec. 17; Skunk Dub (reggae), Dec. 18; Eclipse (classic rock, today’s hits), Dec. 19; Pac Men (1980s tribute), Dec. 20; Skatterbrain (classic rock, today’s hits), Dec. 26; Hunter and the Dir ty Jacks (classic rock), Dec. 27; All In (classic rock and today’s hits) and a New Year’s Eve party, Dec. 31. 3616 University Ave., Riverside; 951-686-7343; www.lakealicetradingco.com.

LA SIERRA CONCERTS THROUGH DEC. 14 – Wind and Percussion

Chamber Concert, Dec. 2; Jazz Combo Concert, Dec. 3; 67th Candlelight Concert, Dec. 5; Chamber Music Series, Dec. 7; Student Chamber Music Recital, Dec. 10; Big Band Concert, Dec. 13; AVPA Recital, Dec. 14. La Sierra University, 4500 Riverwalk Parkway, Riverside; 951-785-2241; www.lasierra.edu.

ROMANO’S CONCERT LOUNGE THROUGH DEC. 19 – Black Friday Retro Metro Reunion, Nov. 28; The Iron Maidens, Alice in Cooperland and American Zombie tribute bands, Nov. 29; The Original Wailers, Dec. 12; Voodoo Glow Skulls, Sick Sense and Slow Children, Dec. 19. 5225 Canyon Crest Drive, Riverside; 951-781-7662; http://theconcertlounge.com.

LAW’S RESTAURANT THROUGH DEC. 26 – Audiogrind, Nov. 28; Entouraj, Dec. 5; Slingshot, Dec. 12; Southbound, Dec. 26; and DJ Chris, Saturdays. 9640 Indiana Ave., Riverside; 951-354-7021; www.lawsrestaurant.com.

FILM SCREENINGS THROUGH JAN. 3 – “The Unknown

Known,” Dec. 5-6; “Walking the Camino,” Dec. 12-13; “The Dog,” Dec. 19-20; “Bjork: Biophilia Live,” Dec. 26-27; “Harold Lloyd: Speedy,” Dec. 31; “Levitated Mass,” Jan. 2-3; . Culver Center of the Arts, 3834 Main St., Riverside; 951-827-4787; http://culvercenter.ucr.edu.

‘GENJI’S WORLD’ THROUGH JAN. 11 – Woodblock prints from many of Japan’s leading print ar tists. Riverside Art Museum, 3425 Mission Inn Ave.; 951-684-7111; www.riversideartmuseum.org.

MUNICIPAL AUDITORIUM THROUGH FEB. 6 – Down, The Punk Rock But Kinda Not Tour, Dec. 5; Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Jan. 3; Badf ish (Sublime tribute), Feb. 6. 3485 Mission Inn Ave.; 951-779-9800; www.riversiderma.com.

MISSION TOBACCO LOUNGE NOV. 28 – Festival of Lights After Par ty, featuring Radium. 3630 University Ave., Riverside; 951-682-4427; www.missiontobaccolounge.com.

calendar

‘ELF THE MUSICAL’

DEC. 5-6 – Stage adaptation of the 2003

movie starring Will Ferrell. Fox Performing Arts Center, 3801 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside; 2 and 7 p.m.; 951-335-3469;

www.riversidelive.com. Also: Sounds of the Season,

Dec. 6; Masters of Harmony, Dec. 7; Irish Christmas,

Dec. 12; The Brian Setzer Orchestra Christmas Rocks! Extravaganza, Dec. 17; Inland Pacif ic Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 27.

RIVERSIDE MASTER CHORALE DEC. 6 – “Awake the Voice, Awake the String” holiday concert. Calvary Presbyterian Church, 4495 Magnolia Ave., Riverside; 7 p.m.; $15; www.riversidemasterchorale.com.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ DEC. 12-14 – Presentation of Charles Dickens’ holiday classic. Riverside Community Players Theater, 4026 14th St.; 7 p.m. 951-686-4030; www.riversidecommunityplayers.com.

CARILLON RECITAL DEC. 13 – David Christensen, university

carillonneur, rings in the holiday season via UC Riverside’s 48-bell carillon with a selection of traditional and popular music. 900 University Ave.; 3-4 p.m.; free admission, $5 parking permits at the information kiosk; http://events.ucr.edu.

VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE DEC. 14 – Presented for the 36th year, this 1890s-style Christmas features caroling, autoharps, dulcimers, bagpipes, home-baked sweets, fresh-cut greens for handmade wreaths and mistletoe. Heritage House, 8193 Magnolia Ave., Riverside; noon to 4 p.m.; free admission and parking; 951-826-5273; www.riversideca.gov/museum.

DAVID ALLAN’S ‘THE NUTCRACKER’ DEC. 20-21 – BRAVA’s presentation of the holiday classic. Landis Performing Arts Center, 4800 Magnolia Ave., Riverside; 1 and 7 p.m.; $15-$37; 800-870-6069; http://riversideballetar ts.com, www.brava-ar ts.org.

HANUKKAH FESTIVAL DEC. 22 – Tenth annual event, presented by Chabad Jewish Community Center. Grand menorah lighting, entertainers, magic show, candle-making, holiday gift store, hot latkes, matzah ball

soup. In front of the Riverside County Historic Courthouse, 4050 Main St., Riverside; 6-7:30 p.m.; free; 951-222-2005; www.jewishriverside.com.

‘AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS’ DEC. 28 – Riverside Lyric Opera, under direction of Dr. Stephen Tucker and featuring Los Angeles Opera bass-baritone Patrick Blackwell, presents Gian Carlo Menotti’s inspirational Christmas tale about a shepherd boy and his mother who witness a miracle when visited by three kings. The Box, Fox Entertainment Plaza, 3635 Market St., Riverside; 4 and 7 p.m.; $50, $25 adults, $20 seniors, $10 children 12 and younger; 951-781-9561; www.riversidelyricopera.org.

TWELFTH NIGHT JAN. 3 – Old Riverside Foundation’s Victorian celebration features an elegant progressive dinner that includes f ine wines and tempting desserts. Event benef its the foundation’s historic preservation projects. Reservations required. $85 (if purchased by Nov. 30), $100 (if purchased Dec. 1-26) or $125 (if purchased Dec. 27-31); 951-683-2725; www.oldriverside.org.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

december 2014 - january 2015 | riversidethemag.com | 11

ARTS WALK DEC. 4 – Browse more than 20 ar t galleries, studios and museums with exhibits in various ar t mediums. Continues the f irst Thursday of every month. Downtown Riverside; 6-9 p.m.; 951-682-6737; www.riversidedowntown.org.

‘FLASH: CARRIE SCHNEIDER’ DEC. 6-MARCH 14 – Contemporary ar t series features single works made within the past year. This is the seventh exhibition in the series. UCR/California Museum of Photography, 3824 Main St., Riverside; 951-827-4787; http://ar tsblock.ucr.edu. Also: “Visual Manipulation,” through Dec. 6; “But Not Forgotten,” through Feb. 21.

CLASSIC CAR SHOW DEC. 14 – Monthly car show presented the second Sunday of each month. Canyon Crest Towne Centre, 5225 Canyon Crest Drive, Riverside; 4-7 p.m.; 951-686-1222; www.cctownecentre.com.

CITRUS HERITAGE RUN JAN. 10 – Sixth annual event features a half-marathon (star ting at 8 a.m.), a 5K (8:30 a.m.) and kids run (9:30 a.m.). Arlington Heights Sports Park, 9401 Cleveland Ave., Riverside; http://riversideroadrunners.com/ citrusheritage-run.

ROSE PRUNING DEMONSTRATION JAN. 11 – Volunteers and local experts will demonstrate how to prune hybrid tea, f loribunda, miniature roses and climbers and

will be available to answer questions. Rain date, Jan. 18. UC Riverside Botanic Gardens, 900 University Ave.; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday; 951-784-6962; www.gardens.ucr.edu.

‘PRIVATE LIVES’ JAN. 23-FEB. 8 – Noel Coward comedy about a divorced couple who reconnect while they’re honeymooning with their new spouses. Riverside Community Players Theater, 4026 14th St., Riverside; 951-686-4030; www.riversidecommunityplayers.com.

LUNARFEST JAN. 31 – Annual event celebrating the Inland Empire’s Asian/Pacif ic American cultural heritage and contributions. Arts and cultural displays, music, f ireworks and food. Parade of nations, 10 a.m.; opening ceremonies, 10:45 a.m. Downtown Riverside; free; 951-453-3548; www.lunarfestriverside.org.

‘IN THE HEIGHTS’ FEB. 6-15 – Universal story of a vibrant community in the Washington Heights neighborhood on the brink of change. Broadway version was the winner of the 2008 Tony for best musical, score, choreography and orchestrations. Landis Performing Arts Center, 4800 Magnolia Ave., Riverside; $29-$50; 951-222-8100; www.performanceriverside.org.

RIVERSIDE COUNTY PHILHARMONIC FEB. 20-22 – “String Lover’s Paradise,” with The Phil’s string section performing selections from the Baroque, Classical and Romantic eras without a conductor. The Box Theatre, Fox Entertainment Plaza, 3635 Market St., Riverside; 951-787-0251; www.thephilharmonic.org. Also: Stars of the Philharmonic, at the Fox Performing Arts Center, May 9.

‘CAHUILLA CONTINUUM’ ONGOING – Exhibit tells the story of a Southern California native people, the Cahuilla, through more than 160 ar tifacts. Metropolitan Museum, 3580 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside; 951-826-5273; www.riversideca.gov/museum.

WITH HONOR AND THANKS DEC. 7 – Stephen Tucker, music director of the Riverside Lyric Opera, conducts the UC Irvine Symphony Orchestra with featured resident ar tist, soprano Natalie Mann, in a program commemorating Pearl Harbor and honoring those who served. March Field Air Museum, 22550 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside; $25-$35; 4 p.m.; 951-781-9561; www.riverside-lyricopera.org.

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N A T U R A L L Y I T A L I A NN A T U R A L L Y I T A L I A N

NONPROFITS

Written by Luanne J. HuntPhotos courtesy Riverside County Regional Medical Center Foundation

Besides bringing lots of holiday cheer, Riverside County Regional Medical Center Foundation’s annual

Festival of Trees has benefited countless children during the past quarter-century.

This year’s event — featuring 50 elaborately decorated trees on display at the Riverside Convention Center during Thanksgiving weekend — promises build on that legacy, says Jeri Vaughan, executive director of the nonprofit organization.

As usual, she adds, it will be staged with a dual purpose: raise funds to purchase equipment for the RCRMC’s pediatrics unit as well as provide support programs to benefit young patients and their families. eighty

percent of the proceeds come from sponsors who buy and provide decorations for the trees.

“Our sponsors have made it possible to purchase many types of equipment — from ventilators and portable X-ray machines to patient monitors and MRi-compatible anesthesia equipment,” Vaughan said.

Over the years, Festival of Trees has raised more than $8 million, says dr. Alexandra Clark, chair of the RCRMC pediatrics department. While funds have primarily been devoted to helping the youngest patients, in reality everyone who seeks care at the facility may benefit, she adds.

“When we purchase ventilators, we buy them in two sizes to fit both

Annual fundraiser benefits young patients at Riverside County Regional Medical Center

TReeS hOPeOF


children and adults. That way, they can be used wherever there is a need,” Clark said. “However, the pediatric units are always our first priority.”

The Festival of Trees kicks off each year with a black-tie gala, which includes gourmet dining, entertainment and auctions. The gala regularly sells out and draws prominent business owners and community leaders.

“Although about 20 percent of our funds are raised every year from this event, our primary reason for holding it is to bring awareness to what’s happening in the pediatric world at RCRMC,” Clark said. “Our attendees receive updates on what types of equipment we’ve purchased, and we also let them know what our existing needs are.”

Event sponsors include California Emergency Physicians Medical Group, DaVita Healthcare Partners, Huron Healthcare, Kaiser Permanente Riverside and the medical schools at Loma Linda University and UC Riverside.

Besides the beautifully decorated trees, there also will be craft and game areas for children of all ages, storytime with Santa and other activities for the entire family.

The five-day event will conclude with a tree designer awards reception on Nov. 30 from 12:30 to 2 p.m.

Festival of TreesWhere: Riverside Convention Center, 3637 Fifth St. When: Nov. 26-30 Cost: Free admission Information: www.rcrmcfoundation.org

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THE FOX AT 5

With the historic Fox theater well into its second act, a major investment in its

renovation is paying dividends

HOUSEAn increAsingly

crOWDeD

Big occasion, big name. Sheryl Crow gave the first concert at the newly renovated Fox Performing Arts Center in January 2010.

Written by George A. Paul and Jerry Rice

When the Fox PerForming Arts Center reopened in January 2010 after a $32-million renovation, the promise of a myriad of arts and entertainment possibilities seemed to lie ahead.

top name musicians and comedians were suddenly putting riverside on their itineraries. But during the next four years, the number and types of events came up short of what many expected.

enter Live nation. one of the world’s biggest entertainment companies, it has a hand in leasing, booking or managing nearly 150 venues in eight countries. Last December, the Fox joined that list.

now starting the second of a three-year contract to run the facility, Live nation recently appointed Karen Foley as general manager there and the nearby riverside municipal Auditorium. she succeeds Joseph Cahill.

Whether Live nation would improve prospects for booking more performances at the historic structure was a looming question a year ago, but since then the indicators have been positive.

According to the riverside Cultural Affairs department, Live nation was required to promote 60 shows during its f irst year. While several events were holdovers from the previous operator, Bill malone’s Fx Arts management, the expected overall target for the 2014-15 season

In addition to concerts and comedians, Broadway musical troupes regularly hit the stage at the Fox. Among the first were the casts of “Annie,” left, and “Spamalot.”

Casting a wide net: Bill Cosby, Natalie Cole and Pat Benatar were among the early Fox performers. Recent acts have included Jerry Seinfeld, Steve Martin and Edie Brickell.


is 65 shows (including a minimum stipulated amount of multicultural and family/children-oriented programs).

Sold out Fox events have included a pair of shows from singer Jason Mraz, comedian Jerry Seinfeld and the “Move Live on Tour” featuring dancers Derek & Julianne Hough, plus additional nights with Willie Nelson, Boyz II Men and Wayne Brady.

Semi-regular open mic nights are popular among local musicians, while special Broadway and movie series (“Pink Panther,” Cinema Culturas Film Fest) have been well-received.

Some of that success can be attributed to the positive feelings locals have for the Fox.

“This theater has an incredibly emotional connection with people,” said Arich Berghammer, Live Nation’s executive vice president for clubs and theaters. “The amount of time on average we spend dealing with the consumer or guest here in a transaction is almost three times what we spend anywhere else in the United States.”

Berghammer says he routinely hears stories about how the theater was the place people had their f irst kiss or brought their children for the first time.

“It’s nice to have that intimacy associated with it,” he said, adding that he doesn’t see that kind of reaction at any other theater in America.

Riverside Mayor “Rusty” Bailey is pleased with the progress at the Fox and what Live Nation has brought to the city. “The quality of the acts and service on event day and night has increased substantially,” he said.

“That’s exciting from my point of view — [hearing from] people who are going to and coming from the Fox and having an incredible experience. That’s what we wanted … [something] that would draw them back to Riverside to either a show or just to come downtown and be a part of the nightlife, the energy and the scene that we have going on.”

The return of the Fox, especially this past year, has been a positive for both Live Nation and the city, Bailey adds.

“A lot of the numbers have exceeded

their expectations in terms of sales, food and beverage and tickets. They truly feel like they’ve made the right decision, and I think Riverside has as well with the numbers and the diversity of the acts, the number of sell outs, the total number of shows.”

Berghammer isn’t satisfied with Live Nation simply achieving its initial goals.

“We’re not going to be happy because there’s much more to do,” he said. “Our first year was us really [studying] Riverside. I said to our team, ‘Let’s go in and learn and give them what they want.’ In the second year, our goal is to touch more people.”

Among the first things Berghammer discovered?

Riverside “was an underserved market. Because of our portfolio and how we operate, we can take risks on things that the former operator probably couldn’t have done — or was willing to.” Another realization: “In the summertime, it doesn’t need to go dark. We sold shows out in the summer.

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page title

Santa’s WorkshopLocated on Main Street Riverside at 6th StreetHours of Operation:Now – December 23rd Monday – Thursday: 4 – 9 p.m. Friday: 4 – 11 p.m. Saturday: 4 – 11 p.m. Sunday: 4 – 10 p.m.December 24th: 2 – 8 p.m.Souvenir photo and photo packages with Santa will be available for purchase. Personal camera photos will NOT be allowed.

Event Map and Guide

Outdoor Ice RinkLocated on Main Street Riversidebetween University & Mission Inn AvenuesHours of Operation:Now – December 19th Monday – Thursday: 4 – 10 p.m. Friday: 4 – 11 p.m. Saturday: Noon – 11 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 10 p.m.December 20th – January 3rd Monday – Friday: Noon – 11 p.m.December 24th: Noon – 9 p.m.December 25th: ClosedCost: $12 per session per person and $3 for skate rentals.

Visit Monday and receive two ice rink admissions for $15, rentals included. Or come for Family Night Wednesday and a group of four can skate for one session for $35, rentals included.

Frequent Skater Cards are available for $50, good for one session Sunday through Thursday during the month of December. Cards can be purchased at the skate rink ticket booth and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, 3580 Mission Inn Ave.

HELP! Frost, the Festival of Lights Elf, has lost some of his elf friends in Downtown Riverside! Can you find them?

Help him reconnect with all six by snapping a picture and posting it to the City of Riverside, CA – Riverside Festival of Lights Facebook page. Each time you post a picture, you’ll be entered for weekly prize drawings. And don’t forget to stop by the downtown Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf to pay Frost a visit – we don’t want him to be too lonely!

xx | riversidethemag.com | february-march 2013

page title

Artisans Collective, a unique Arts Market, runs each weekend through Dec. 21. Discover a creative marketplace with hand-crafted, one-of-a kind art, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, paintings, mosaics, garments, stationery and art demos.

Specialty holiday vendors will be on Main Street throughout the

Festival!

Visit the websites of our local arts & culture venues for unique and fun holiday programming.

New Year’s Eve

Family Activities6 - 9 pm

Santa’s Workshop

Gallery of Flow

ers

Simple Sim

on’s

Magnolia’s

Don Carlos H

air Salon

Tamale Factory

Jon Michael Salon

Mrs. Tiggy W

inkles

Citizens Business Bank (ATM)

Make-a-W

ishG

ram’s M

ission BBQCurves

House of Im

portsReveille

Merle N

orman

Manhattan’s Salon &

SpaOur Treasure Chest

Something Sw

eet by SerinaSunshine Portrait Studio

Hair W

orks IIUpper Crust

ProAbition

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Pacific Stiks

Antonious N&

W

Pizza

Salad Buzz

CBU Art Gallery

Room to D

ance

Mezcal Cantina

MissionMartini

Elephant Thai Cuisine

Farmer Boys

Subway

Wells Fargo (ATM)

Hideaway CaféMolinos Coffee Mario’s Place

DragonMarsh

Doña Timo’s La Cascada

Back to the Grind

DDogs

Pixels

MTLLake Alice

Trading Co.

(Start One Way)

(One Way)

Artworks Gallery

6th Street Pilates

C3 Restaurant

Bella Trattoria

Casey’s Cupcakes

Mardon

Jewelers

Kelly’s Boutique

Mission Inn

Museum

Dow

ntowne

Books

Wendie M

onrroy on M

ain

Parrott

Toni Moore

Clothing

UCR Museum

of Photography

Culver Center of the Arts

Mission G

alleria

Riverside Art on M

ainM

P Couture

Heroes RestaurantArt’s Bar & Grill Sevilla

RESTROOMS

RESTROOMS

Fox Performing Arts Center The Box

FIND YOURSELF IN SPAIN!

3252 Mission Inn Ave • Downtown Riverside • 951.778.0611 • CafeSevilla.com

RESTAURANT & TAPAS BAR

Lemon StreetLemon Street

RiversideConvention

Center

Riverside Art

Museum

Riverside Municipal

Auditorium

MainLibrary

RiversideMetropolitan

Museum

Lime StreetLime Street

Æ

Æ

Æ

Æ Æ

Marriott Riverside at

the Convention Center

3582 Main StreetRiverside, CA 92501

951-682-1082

Used books, CDs, Prints,Consignment Art, Specialorders

Nadia Lee and Vera Lee, Proprietors


page title

Artisans Collective, a unique Arts Market, runs each weekend through Dec. 21. Discover a creative marketplace with hand-crafted, one-of-a kind art, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, paintings, mosaics, garments, stationery and art demos.

Specialty holiday vendors will be on Main Street throughout the

Festival!

Visit the websites of our local arts & culture venues for unique and fun holiday programming.

New Year’s Eve

Family Activities6 - 9 pm

Santa’s Workshop

Gallery of Flow

ers

Simple Sim

on’s

Magnolia’s

Don Carlos H

air Salon

Tamale Factory

Jon Michael Salon

Mrs. Tiggy W

inkles

Citizens Business Bank (ATM)

Make-a-W

ishG

ram’s M

ission BBQCurves

House of Im

portsReveille

Merle N

orman

Manhattan’s Salon &

SpaOur Treasure Chest

Something Sw

eet by SerinaSunshine Portrait Studio

Hair W

orks IIUpper Crust

ProAbition

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Pacific Stiks

Antonious N&

W

Pizza

Salad Buzz

CBU Art Gallery

Room to D

ance

Mezcal Cantina

MissionMartini

Elephant Thai Cuisine

Farmer Boys

Subway

Wells Fargo (ATM)

Hideaway CaféMolinos Coffee Mario’s Place

DragonMarsh

Doña Timo’s La Cascada

Back to the Grind

DDogs

Pixels

MTLLake Alice

Trading Co.

(Start One Way)

(One Way)

Artworks Gallery

6th Street PilatesC3 Restaurant

Bella Trattoria

Casey’s Cupcakes

Mardon

Jewelers

Kelly’s Boutique

Mission Inn

Museum

Dow

ntowne

Books

Wendie M

onrroy on M

ain

Parrott

Toni Moore

Clothing

UCR Museum

of Photography

Culver Center of the Arts

Mission G

alleria

Riverside Art on M

ainM

P Couture

Heroes RestaurantArt’s Bar & Grill Sevilla

RESTROOMS

RESTROOMS

Fox Performing Arts Center The Box

FIND YOURSELF IN SPAIN!

3252 Mission Inn Ave • Downtown Riverside • 951.778.0611 • CafeSevilla.com

RESTAURANT & TAPAS BAR

Lemon StreetLemon Street

RiversideConvention

Center

Riverside Art

Museum

Riverside Municipal

Auditorium

MainLibrary

RiversideMetropolitan

Museum

Lime StreetLime Street

Æ

Æ

Æ

Æ Æ

Marriott Riverside at

the Convention Center

3582 Main StreetRiverside, CA 92501

951-682-1082

Used books, CDs, Prints,Consignment Art, Specialorders

Nadia Lee and Vera Lee, Proprietors

xx | riversidethemag.com | february-march 2013

page title

Santa’s WorkshopLocated on Main Street Riverside at 6th StreetHours of Operation:Now – December 23rd Monday – Thursday: 4 – 9 p.m. Friday: 4 – 11 p.m. Saturday: 4 – 11 p.m. Sunday: 4 – 10 p.m.December 24th: 2 – 8 p.m.Souvenir photo and photo packages with Santa will be available for purchase. Personal camera photos will NOT be allowed.

Event Map and Guide

Outdoor Ice RinkLocated on Main Street Riversidebetween University & Mission Inn AvenuesHours of Operation:Now – December 19th Monday – Thursday: 4 – 10 p.m. Friday: 4 – 11 p.m. Saturday: Noon – 11 p.m. Sunday: Noon – 10 p.m.December 20th – January 3rd Monday – Friday: Noon – 11 p.m.December 24th: Noon – 9 p.m.December 25th: ClosedCost: $12 per session per person and $3 for skate rentals.

Visit Monday and receive two ice rink admissions for $15, rentals included. Or come for Family Night Wednesday and a group of four can skate for one session for $35, rentals included.

Frequent Skater Cards are available for $50, good for one session Sunday through Thursday during the month of December. Cards can be purchased at the skate rink ticket booth and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum, 3580 Mission Inn Ave.

HELP! Frost, the Festival of Lights Elf, has lost some of his elf friends in Downtown Riverside! Can you find them?

Help him reconnect with all six by snapping a picture and posting it to the City of Riverside, CA – Riverside Festival of Lights Facebook page. Each time you post a picture, you’ll be entered for weekly prize drawings. And don’t forget to stop by the downtown Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf to pay Frost a visit – we don’t want him to be too lonely!


People respond to the proper type of programming.”

Indeed. Margie Haupt, the city’s Arts and Cultural Affairs manager and president of the Fox Riverside Theater Foundation board of directors, believes the venue has and continues to live up to its initial promise. Still, she says the full season slate needs to focus even more on diversity and family programming along the lines of Cinema Culturas, October’s showcase for Mexican and Latino filmmakers, and “Elf: The Musical,” a stage adaptation of the 2003 movie that opens Dec. 5.

“We want to hit that 18-to-35 demographic,” she said. “We put that as benchmarks into Live Nation’s agreement. As we develop those aspects, I think that will strengthen what we have there.”

That also would help promote the goals of the Fox Theater Foundation — to support the venue through education, outreach and fundraising. One manner it does that is through the Students at Broadway program, which provides complimentary tickets and educational resources to high school students.

“Another important aspect of the Fox Foundation is keeping the traditions of the past alive,” Haupt added.

The Fox opened in 1929 as a movie palace and a stage for vaudeville acts, and a decade later it became the first cinema in the nation to screen “Gone with the Wind.” More recently, the theater has screened the Civil War epic and the adventure “The Wizard of Oz” for their 70th anniversaries, and “Gone with the Wind” will be presented again on Dec. 14 for its 75th.

Economic driverWhen it comes to bookings, having

more shows that bring in more people is important to downtown restaurants and shops because it generally means more business.

“I think it has exceeded their expectations,” Bailey said, referring to the Fox’s drawing power, especially during the past year. “Initially,

I remember [businesses] not staying open later on event nights and not connecting very well in terms of offering deals like, ‘Bring in a ticket from the Fox and get a free drink or 10 percent off.’ Now, I’m seeing those advertised from various downtown establishments.”

Marco McGuire, who opened the 1920s speakeasy-themed ProAbition Whiskey Lounge & Kitchen two years ago with his brother, Daniel, says the restaurant has enjoyed a 15 to 20

percent increase in business since Live Nation took over.

“When they’re having a good act at the Fox or the auditorium, we’re pretty much sold out,” he said. “We depend on Live Nation bringing good acts to the Fox.”

McGuire, who also owns the Mexican gastropub Mezcal with his brother, says it’s important for them to keep abreast of what’s booked into both downtown entertainment venues, the Municipal

FOX: AT A GLANCE

Peter Frampton

[Continues from Page 16]

FACTS, FIGURESHighlights since Live Nation star ted managing the Fox Performing Arts Center on Dec. 1, 2013.• Sold out shows: 11• More than 70 percent of ticket

sales are derived from a 25-mile radius of the venue.

• Half of tickets are purchased by patrons aged 45-64.

• Broadway series subscriber base increased 100 percent, from 310 to 624.

• The entertainment company is paid $500,000 to run the Fox.

• Annual revenue $1.9 million; expenses $2.4 million.

• Riverside incurs a net cost of $568,000 (comprising one-time management transition costs of $245,000).

• Annual net operating results equals the best previous result with FX Arts Management.

• Live Nation is on track to stage 65 shows in f iscal 2014-15.

Source: Riverside Cultural Affairs; Live Nation

ON STAGE Select headline music and comedy acts at the Fox Performing Arts Center during the past f ive years:2010 – Sheryl Crow, Natalie Cole, Gladys Knight,

America, Bill Cosby, David Benoit, Don McLean, Ozomatli, Craig Ferguson, Jason Bonham, Blondie

2011 – Burt Bacharach, Wanda Sykes, Scott Stapp of Creed, B.B. King, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, “Weird” Al Yankovic, Kenny Loggins, Leon Russell, Dr. John, Joe Walsh, Peter Frampton, Howie Mandell

2012 – Dwight Yoakam, Robert Cray, Rod Piazza & the Mighty Flyers, The Mavericks, Shelby Lynne, LeAnn Rimes, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Berlin, Blues Traveler, Rufus Wainwright, Judy Collins, Roger McGuinn, Brian McKnight

2013 – Dennis DeYoung of Styx, Foreigner, Boz Scaggs, Stephen Stills, Sheila E., Bill Medley of the Righteous Brothers, Darlene Love, Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers, Edie Brickell, Intocable, Los Lobos, Doobie Brothers

2014 – Hugh Laurie, Melissa Etheridge, Jason Mraz, Jerry Seinfeld, Dream Theater, Jill Scott, Bill Engvall, Kathleen Madigan, Matisyahu, James Blunt, Huey Lewis & the News, Amos Lee, Larry the Cable Guy, Citizen Cope, Jerry Lewis, Primus, Move Tour with Derek & Julianne Hough, Yanni


Auditorium and especially the Fox.“We need to make sure we have the

right labor in the kitchen and out front,” he said, adding that he doesn’t hesitate to schedule additional employees when the theater will have a full house.

In the future, the entrepreneur has another reason to keep an eye on what’s happening there because the site also has space for a restaurant. The city is looking to fill it, and Bailey hopes that “a solid name-brand restaurant or something highly creative from a local entrepreneur” will open in the next five years.

With about 65 eateries, restaurants and bars already in the downtown area, the mayor believes that adding a new one at the Fox shouldn’t steal business from the others.

“It adds more value,” he said. “People are not going to want to go to the same restaurant every time they come here.”

McGuire also believes a new player would be beneficial.

“People have that fear factor about competition, but actually it makes you better and at the end of the day it’s going to bring you more business.”

On the retail side, Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle’s, a longtime fixture on the Main Street pedestrian mall, also has experienced an increase in traffic and business on performance nights since Live Nation stepped in.

“We get some people out for a fun night on their way to the Fox,” said CeeAnn Thiel, owner of the unique gifts and novelties shop. “They’re in a good mood, and their evening is planned for very nice things.”

She also has noticed that Fox attendees often match “the flavor of that concert,” and used the Red-Headed Stranger’s sell out as an example. “Depending on their apparel, I know what show they’re going to see. Willie Nelson people all came in [wearing] Levis jackets.”

Thiel has attended several Fox shows and believes that operation-wise the venue is on the right track.

“We love it. It’s fun for us personally, and it’s good for people walking around

the mall,” she said. “I know a lot of people who say they love coming here and want to stay longer, but they have to go to Mario’s Place so they can eat dinner and make it to the show.”

To encourage still more people to come to the Fox — and the downtown — several options have been discussed, including adding more public transporta-tion options, such as a street car system, and having Riverside Transit busses operate later on performance nights.

“We would definitely have a higher population of young people and elderly people in downtown Riverside at night on the weekends,” Bailey said. “That’s an investment I think we need to have conversations about.”

Another option under consideration is an arena that would be bigger than the 1,646-seat Fox and could host events that the theater isn’t designed to handle, such as UC Riverside basketball games or California Baptist University volleyball matches.

One proposal has called for a 6,000-seat facility at the southeast corner of Third and Market streets and a 1,750-space parking garage that would be shared with the revitalized Convention Center.

“It can’t just be the Fox as the only driver. If you bring in an arena and more transportation, it’s only better for us,” Berghammer said. “The restaurant next door will be good for everyone. It brings more traffic and people.

“Part of our job is to be an economic engine for the downtown area. It isn’t just putting a show on.”

Performance reviewsWhen it comes to rating the Fox,

musicians who have performed there since it reopened have varying opinions about the venue.

Berghammer says that Seinfeld “was blown away. He thought the community was great and the food from local restaurants was wonderful.”

“As far as hospitality and treatment of artists, I’d rate it as excellent, and it has a real nice stage,” said veteran Riverside blues man Rod Piazza, who has played the venue three times since the re-opening with his Mighty Flyers band.

Terri Nunn of Berlin played the Fox in 2012 and was impressed. “It’s so elegant now and it was such an honor to perform there,” she said. “Southern California isn’t known for landmark buildings. … It’s wonderful to go to places like the Fox and not only see great shows, but also feel part of history.”

When Dennis DeYoung, the former lead singer of Styx, performed at the Fox in 2013, “I thought I was back at the Alamo when we drove up. The backstage was very nice and the production was great. …

“I think Riverside should feel proud to have such a fine performing arts center,” he added.

UpcomingDec. 4: Wanda SykesDec. 5-6: “Elf: The Musical”Dec. 6: Sounds of the SeasonDec. 7: Masters of HarmonyDec. 12: Irish ChristmasDec. 17: Brian Setzer Orchestra’s “Christmas

Rocks!” ExtravaganzaDec. 19: “Men Are From Mars, Women Are From

Venus”Dec. 20: Patti LaBelleDec. 27: “The Nutcracker,” by the Inland Pacif ic

BalletDec. 30: Straight No ChaserJan. 17: “Mark Twain Tonight!”Jan. 24: “So You Think You Can Dance” Live TourFeb. 4-5: “Mamma Mia!”Information: www.foxriversidelive.com

Hal Holbrook as Mark Twain

reflections


A living Nativity, remembering family roots craig Johnston: the Hideaway café

Growing up in Fullerton, Craig Johnston enjoyed being one of 12 siblings. The family has grown even larger since then as he and his six brothers and five sisters had their own kids. Today, Johnston’s mother has 53 grandchildren at last count.

When Johnston was a child, his father, the late Gene Johnston, created an elaborate Nativity scene in their front yard. It became quite a production, with family members serving as live participants, the newest infant in the family portraying the baby Jesus, and their poodle standing in as a sheep. The family borrowed 4-H animals to add to the scene’s authenticity, and the musically oriented siblings played instruments.

A taste for traditionCulture and celebration plated for the holidays

Written by Amy Bentley

VIsIT, GIFT aNd eaT — be thankful, perhaps pray — american holiday traditions are straightforward. But just below the surface, amid the groaning tables and smiling faces, are memories of yesterdays and loved ones long

passed which swell fresh to mind with the whiff of the pie grandma used to make or when served in a dish that mom used for decades.

It’s no wonder that across cultures food is at the centerpiece of family celebrations or that it’s the heart and hearth of today’s gatherings.

For this issue, we asked three Riverside restaurant owners to tell us about their food and their families’ cherished traditions.

PHoTo By WIll lesTeRDebbie and craig Johnston with their daughter, crystal, at the Hideaway cafe.


“It seemed like every year my mom would have a new baby Jesus to put out in the scene,” Johnston joked.

“The Johnston Family Nativity Scene” evolved into a 20-minute program the family shared with the community for 25 years. Dinner was a big meal after church on Sunday that included lots of healthy foods like turkey and fruit.

Years later as a special treat, when the 12 kids were adults, Johnston’s dad rented a bus and took more than 60 family members on a tour of places in Los Angeles that had been a part of his childhood.

Johnston’s dad was raised in foster homes during the Depression after his own father died when he was 2. The bus tour visited his old school and the street where Johnston’s parents met, near a gas station where his dad worked.

Today, Johnston and his wife, Debbie, who have two adult children, return to his 84-year-old mom’s home in Fullerton for a four-to-five day Christmas celebration.

The siblings and their families enjoy food, a gift exchange, games, skits, a talent show and Bible readings.

“We share what everyone has done during the year. My mom types up a newsletter, and she gives it out to everyone. She loves to have everyone there.”

A Mexican kitchen crowded with family, friends and loveJon Medina: Zacatecas Café

When Jon Medina was a child growing up in Riverside, his mom ruled the kitchen for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, which were celebrated with dozens of loved ones at the home of his late parents, Oscar and Josefina Medina.

Jon’s mom would start cooking early in the morning, preparing traditional Mexican specialties like tamales, carnitas, menudo, and deep-fried tortillas with cinnamon on top. Fresh salsa, tequila and margaritas also were on the menu.

The Medinas always hosted a big crowd, and guests often included

various city officials, such as the city attorney and police chief, who all knew the Medinas from their popular restaurant, Zacatecas Café.

Police officers from each shift would stop by for fresh tamales.

“We had a lot of fun,” Jon said. Flash forward to today: Jon and his

wife, Vicky, now run the restaurant that his parents opened in 1963. Jon started cooking at age 10, so preparing meals has become second nature to him.

With his parents gone, the holidays are now celebrated at the couple’s Riverside home, where loved ones gather to feast on traditional American and Mexican holiday dishes. The family has many mixed marriages, so foods from both cultures is a treat for everyone, Jon says.

For Thanksgiving, he cooks two turkeys, two hams and two beef roasts and makes gravy using his mom’s recipe. Guests bring side dishes like mashed potatoes, fruit salad and dessert, and a niece bakes special breads.

For Christmas, the family enjoys menudo, beans, quesadillas and other traditional Mexican foods including — of course — tamales of all kinds.

Chicken tamales, inspired by the ones Josefina Medina used to prepare, are served at Zacatecas Café.

PhOTOS BY FRANk PeReZVicky Medina, left, and Ashley Salinas with several employees at Zacatecas Café


Smoke, sweets and soulBenita Bratton: Gram’s Mission BBQ

Soul food has always been a part of life for Benita Bratton, a Riverside native whose grandparents were South Carolina sharecroppers before they pulled up stakes and moved West.

When her dad, Robert Bratton, founded Gram’s Mission BBQ in 1988, the family served a variety of Southern, Creole and Cajun favorites.

Today’s menu includes fried fish, pulled pork and beef brisket sandwiches, Po’Boy shrimp and catfish sandwiches, red beans and rice, collard greens and country-fried okra. Desserts include homemade peach cobbler, bread pudding and sweet potato pie.

The restaurant is named after Benita’s grandmother, who lived in Rubidoux and hosted many holiday gatherings.

“Her house was like our family hub where everybody came,” said Benita, who now runs the restaurant with help from her 72-year-old dad and her son, Janaar Barnes, 23.

Benita mostly learned to cook from her beloved grandmother and her aunt, Shirley Simmons of Riverside. The foods of Benita’s childhood are still served up every day at Gram’s and also at family holiday feasts.

“We always had traditional smoked turkey. That’s one of the reasons why we have that at the restaurant, because that’s what she (Gram) always did,” Benita said.

“And, you couldn’t have anything without peach cobbler, black-eyed peas, candied yams, collard greens and ham.”

For Christmas today, the family enjoys a big brunch with shrimp, eggs, grits,

veggies, pastries and waffles. “Grits are definitely a staple for us,”

Benita said of the hot corn meal that is popular in the South. “When I was a kid that’s what we would have in the morning. I make really good grits.”

For the big Thanksgiving and New Year’s family meals, everyone brings food and homemade desserts. Benita shares a smoked turkey and a fried turkey.

“There’s never any left,” she says with pride.

PHoToS BY FRANk PeRezBenita Bratton, left, with longtime baker Lena Harris at Gram’s BBQ

Peach cobbler at Gram’s Mission BBQ

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TASTE

Lemon barsGray will divulge only one thing about her take on the traditional recipe: Don’t use lemon concentrate. “With fresh lemons, the lemon bars come out that much better,” she says.

Lots of festive, tasty treats — it’s one of the best things about the holidays. With that time of year upon us, we asked Cheryl Duffy at Jammin’ Bread and Regina Gray at sweet epies Bakery and Cafe to prepare some of

their favorite seasonal goodies and reveal a little about each one.

season’s eatings


Red velvet cupcake With red velvet, moistness is key. One of Gray’s secrets for ensuring her cupcakes are perfectly moist is adding the vinegar and baking soda last in the preparation process. Another key is to not overcook. “If you do,” she says, “it comes out pretty dense and not as enjoyable.”

Black and whites A New York bakery staple, this cake-like cookie is often glazed with half white and half chocolate icing. Duffy made a few changes to produce a Christmas look.

Frosted sugar cookies Baked until the edges start to lightly brown, they’re cooled then decorated with buttercream frosting. “Always a hit no matter what time of year,” Duffy says.

Eggnog whoopee pie Like many of her customers, Gray enjoys a glass of creamy eggnog so she decided to incorporate the seasonal treat into a new creation.

Shortbread with jam Delicate, tender and buttery, this selection is sandwiched with red raspberry jam and pairs well with a cup of tea, Duffy says.

Molasses cookiesGray has only been making molasses cookies for the past couple years. “It’s a favorite of mine, and I truly enjoy the flavor with coffee,” she says.

Jammin’ Bread5255 Canyon Crest Drive, Suite 17A, Riverside; 951-369-1869

Sweet Epies Bakery and Cafe3540 Ninth St., Riverside; 951-781-6778

Kingdom cupcake On a day of experimentation, Gray took a pumpkin cupcake recipe, made a few tweaks (including using sweet potato) and a new customer hit was born. “It’s a knockoff of our sweet potato cheesecake and was everything I wanted to represent Sweetie Pies with,” she says. The Kingdom cupcake has a cream cheese middle with cinnamon buttercream frosting, salted caramel and pecans on top.

neighborhoods


ClassiC Boasting many tree-inspired street names, Riverside’s historic district near downtown shows its age — beautifully

Late in the fall of 2012, Joe logan returned to his home in Riverside’s Wood Streets neighborhood on the day before thanksgiving after spending several days in the hospital following major surgery. a couple of weeks later, before Christmas,

a neighbor called to see if it would be OK to visit logan and his wife Sandi at their larchwood Place home.

Soon afterward, about 20 people came over pulling a wagon with a Christmas tree decorated with bows and lights, and an assortment of cards. envelopes contained about $700 in cash and another $600 in gift certif icates.

“it was so awesome; it was unbelievable,” said logan, who has lived with Sandi in their 1921 bungalow-style home since 1988. “they were singing Christmas carols to us and we were crying our eyes out.”

woodcraft

A century ago, visitors to what is now the Wood streets neighborhood would have been in the midst of orange groves, but it wasn’t long before citrus started giving way to homes. nearly all of the homes in the area today were built before the start of World War ii.

PhOtO by thOmaS R . CORdOva


The holiday surprise was a typical kind gesture for those in his close-knit neighborhood of mostly well-kept vintage homes, says Logan.

“This is the best neighborhood in the city,” he added.

Wood Streets is perhaps Riverside’s premier showcase for vintage and historic single-family homes in a range of styles including California bungalow, Craftsman, Tudor, Spanish Colonial Revival and Victorian. Encompassing nearly a square-mile, homes line streets that follow a timberland theme — Beechwood, Elmwood, Larchwood, Linwood, Oakwood and Rosewood.

Most were built in the 1910s and 1920s, and many have been featured in the Old Riverside Foundation’s annual home tour. About a quarter of the neighborhood falls in a city-designated historic district.

Many people who live outside the neighborhood may not realize that behind the architecturally pleasing exteriors, the sculpted wood, stone facades and pretty gardens, is a community of people devoted to each other and their little slice of Riverside.

“It’s a true neighborhood. There are people of all ages, older people and young couples,” said resident Charles Slaughter, who has been active with a community group called Neighbors of the Wood Streets (NOWS), which was started by Don Mac Leish.

“In the evenings, people are out pushing their kids in strollers, walking and jogging. And when there’s a crisis on the street, people know their neighbors and help.”

Tips about carpenters, plumbers and craftsmen who work on older homes are shared both in person and via an online message board; singles are frequently invited to their neighbors’ homes for dinner; and even when issues literally drop in, such as large palm tree fronds falling on the sidewalk or in the street, residents take care of them.

The Wood Streets community

celebrates National Night Out with the Riverside Police and Fire departments with a huge barbecue, and homeowners on Chapman Place are known for their elaborately themed Christmas decorations.

NOWS was formed four years ago to unite Wood Streets residents, keep them informed on local issues and help them work with city officials on important issues such as traffic, noise and tree maintenance.

“We’re relatively new, but we got well known because of some of the issues that affect the whole Wood Streets area,” said Slaughter, whose family lives in a 1913 Craftsman-style home on Magnolia Avenue. “We try to represent everybody and give them access to City Hall.”

Councilman Mike Gardner knows many Wood Streets residents by name and attends NOWS meetings with his assistant, Lynn Anderson.

Residents credit Gardner and Anderson with helping to move forward a tree-trimming and maintenance program for the neighborhood’s large trees, as well as helping deal with other issues such as traffic along Magnolia

PHOTOS By ERIC REEDLarge, mature trees add character to homes, including this one on Linwood Place.

Sidewalks are inviting for leisurely afternoon strolls.

Avenue and the ongoing restoration of the decorative, original Wood Streets pillars that grace several street corners.

“The sense of neighborhood here is what I like best,” said Gardner, who also admires the beautiful homes and is friendly with many residents, including Pat and Anita Silvestri.

The Silvestri home, a large 1928

Spanish Colonial Revival designed by famed architect Henry L.A. Jekel, has been featured several times in the Old Riverside Foundation home tour. Jekel also designed the tower for the First Congregational Church downtown, the mausoleum at Evergreen Cemetery and the landmark Benedict Castle.

NOWS is putting together a program to honor 100-year-old homes and their owners, said Anna Marie Soto, an officer with the organization. She resides in a California bungalow on Linwood Place that was built in 1906.

“One of the goals is we keep it historical,” Soto said.

Her house sits on land that once was a nut grove and still has an original pecan tree. The owner of the nut grove at one time lived in a large Victorian on nearby Bandini Avenue, she noted, adding, “There’s history involved here.”

Another active group is the Historic Wood Streets Association, comprised of about 300 homeowners dedicated to preserving original features on the vintage homes.


riverside

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PHOTO By FRANk PEREzMarjorie Barr, left, April Glatzel, Charles slaughter, Tara Glatzel, Anna Marie soto and Cynthia Adilor are members of the NOWs steering committee.

PHOTO By ERIC REEdHomes with front porches are rare in new developments but commonplace in the Wood streets neighborhood. This residence on Magnolia Avenue also has a balcony.

RANCHO BELAGO


Soto, Slaughter and many other residents are involved with the Wood Streets Green Team, yet another neighborhood group. Led by Susan Fahrney, the Green Team promotes sustainable living throughout the city.

One of the group’s projects is the Tequesquite Community Garden at Ryan Bonaminio Park, which is nearby.

The garden has 100 plots, each about 150 square feet. Stakeholders rent the space to grow all sorts of fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers for personal use or to donate to community groups with food programs, says Pat Silvestri, who leads the garden effort.

About three fourths of the plots have been spoken for; the remaining ones are still available.

On any given Saturday morning, a dozen or more people will come to work their land. Recently, many have been making the transition from summer to winter crops and doing general maintenance.

Besides gardening, it also is a great time

to catch up with neighbors.“It is a social thing, and it’s always a lot

more fun to work with other people,” Silvestri said. “That’s why doing a community garden is such a satisfying experience because you don’t have to do it alone.”

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PhOTO By eRIC ReedMagnolia elementary school on Maplewood Place opened in 1898 and now has about 700 students. the school’s motto also fits nicely with the wood streets neighborhood: “Know the past, live the present, dream the future.”

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seen

(1) Dr. G. Richard Olds, founding dean of the UC Riverside School of Medicine, left, and Dr. Dan Anderson, president/CEO of Riverside Community Health Foundation (2) Councilman Mike Gardner, left, Paula and Eugene Montanez (3) Carol Karidakes, left, and Michaele Anderson (4) Councilman Paul Davis and May Lynn Davis (5) Ben Johnson II, Riverside Community Health Foundation board member (6) Thomas Loza, left, Dr. Katherine Wright and Anna Loza (7) Jeff and Kathie Westley (8) Judy Carpenter and Dr. Kenneth DozierPhotos by Chase Leland/Chase Photography

RCHF’s Paint the Town Pink

1Paint the Town Pink, the Riverside Community Health Foundation’s annual celebration, was a night to support those who have fought or are currently fighting breast cancer. Proceeds will benefit The Pink Ribbon Place, which every year helps more than 1,000 families impacted by the disease. Information: www.rchf.org

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(1) Cur tis Conyears, left, and Janette Auguar (2) Keith and Gloria Moreland (3) Doug and Diana McAdam (4) Jim Jimeniz and Marylou Maria Marquez (5) Yazmin Alvarez (6) Susan Car twright (7) Gami and Mark McGuire (8) Leta and Steve Helfrich Photos by Christ ine French

Boys & Girls Clubs Mansion Masquerade

Costumes and championing a cause were the main themes during the third annual Mansion Masquerade, held recently at the Burrage Mansion. About 150 guests, along with sponsors and community partners, raised more than $25,000 to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Redlands-Riverside, which will use the funds for after-school programs. Information: www.BeGreatIE.org

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(1) Lisa Holloway, left, Jean O’Keefe, Mary E. Sheets, Wendy Boyd and Evelyn Anzevino (2) Thomas Thiernan, left, Bailey Blakkolb and Logan Ridgway (3) Katie Pickett, left, and Carrie Ridgway (4) Stan and Jessie Morrison (5) Joe Cahill, left, Sue Mitchell and Matt Freidlander (6) Jim and Barbara Parker (7) Julian Lee and Dr. Laura Schrader (8) Erin Tavaglione, left, and Lynn AndersonPhotos by Chase Leland/Chase Photography

Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center Comedy Night

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There were lots of laughs in support of an important cause during the 17th annual Comedy Night, hosted recently by the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center at the Riverside Municipal Auditorium. More than $55,000 was raised to support the center’s efforts to care for cats, dogs, kittens and puppies, and to help educate the community about the importance of spaying and neutering.

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dec. 31 – 15th annual Lights for Little Lives Memorial Walk, an event to remember children who have died, presented by The Unforgettables Foundation. Walk star ts at 3:30 p.m. at the Ronald McDonald House, 11365 Anderson St., Loma Linda; 909-335-1600; www.theunforgettables.com.

Feb. 12 – 19th annual Valentine Desser t Auction and 13th annual Battle of the Bakers Luncheon. Proceeds benef it service projects selected by Soroptimist International of Riverside. Riverside Convention Center, Fifth and Orange streets; 11 a.m. registration, lunch at noon; http://soroptimistriverside.org.

March 14 – Banquet for Life, annual benef it for Riverside Life Services. Riverside Convention Center, 3637 Fifth St., Riverside; 951-784-2422, www.riversidelifeservices.org.

March 14 – Eighth annual Live Your Dream conference, presented by Soroptimist International of Riverside. California Baptist University, 8432 Magnolia Ave., Riverside; http://soroptimistriverside.org.

April 28 – Salute to Service Awards Ceremony, presented by Soroptimist International of Riverside. Riverside Convention Center, Fifth and Orange streets; $40; http://soroptimistriverside.org.

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RISING TALENTS


Hometown girls: If you watch Inland Pacific Ballet’s holiday favorite “The Nutcracker,” keep an eye out for Nicole Gavin, 15, and Mira Nadon, 13, who share the role of Clara. Both girls from Claremont have also performed in the IPB productions of “Cinderella” and “Beauty and the Beast.”

Nicole, a first-year apprentice with the company, started ballet training at the age of 3 and aspires to become a professional ballerina. Mira took up ballet when she was 5; this is her sixth season doing “The Nutcracker.”

Playing Clara: “You get to do a lot of acting and you’re pretty much in the entire ballet, so it’s a lot of fun,” says Mira, who has the role for the third time. Nicole is grateful for the chance to hone her theatrical skills, saying, “It gives me amazing opportunities to partner with a boy and to have a solo on stage. Also, there is the acting aspect of it.”

Looking to the future: Nicole has spent many summers doing intensive ballet training programs, including one with the School of American Ballet, the official school of the New York City Ballet, which Nicole aspires to join.

She competed in the 2013 Los Angeles Youth American Grand Prix, one of the world’s most prestigious ballet competitions. “I feel when I’m dancing I’m transported to a difference place — all my worries are left at the door,” Nicole says.

As for Mira, she has attended the Inland Pacific Ballet Academy’s Summer Intensive Program for many years and last summer studied at the School of American Ballet in New York City. Mira loved the Big Apple. “There’s so much going on there,” she says.

At the Fox: Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Inland Pacific Ballet is bringing its version of “The Nutcracker” to the Fox Performing Arts Center for the first time. Performances are Dec. 27 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Information: www.ipballet.org

ON THEIR TOES IN

Mira Nadon as ClaraPhoTo BY E.Y. YANAGI, ©2013

‘THE NuTCRACkER’

Nicole Gavin

february-march 2013 | riversidethemag.com | xxWWW. .COM

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Studies show that individuals who connect with others live happier, healthier lives. Riverside’s Senior Centers provide a variety of programs and activities dedicated to

residents 55 and better that promote socialization, lifelong learning, and an active lifestyle.

To learn more about local senior programs, visit HomeinRiverside.com.

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