Attractions

07/29/2010

OC Fair keeps a strong beat
Whether you have a craving for all kinds of fried foods, want to see farm animals up close or hear some good bands, the Orange County Fair 2010 will have something for you. This weekend's music selections include Ziggy Marley, Faith Hill, a tribute to U2 and Blue Oyster Cult.

This weekend's Inland car shows, July 30, 2010
Today ESCONDIDO, Cruisin' Grand Car Show, 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, event is free, 760-745-8877.

Saturday CALIMESA, Go cruisin', 6-9 p.m. The Shoppes at Calimesa, 1180 Calimesa Blvd., free, 909-795-0291 or 909-795-6765.

Former resident visits Plaza for book signing
Former Riverside resident and Notre Dame High School graduate Shannon Fox and co-author Celeste Liversidge will be at Borders Bookstore at the Riverside Plaza on Saturday at noon signing copies of their new book "Last One Down The Aisle."

07/25/2010

Norco tips hat to Inland veteran, Western lifestyle
The city of Norco paid tribute to cowboys in general and a wounded war veteran in particular at the celebration Saturday of the National Day of the Cowboy at the George Ingalls Equestrian Events Center.

07/24/2010

Tickets on sale for Temecula fundraiser to benefit shelter animals
Tickets are on sale for the Aug. 28 "Wines for Canines" fundraiser benefiting shelter animals.

The event, which includes lunch, performances, and a "Fido fashion show" will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Wilson Creek Winery, 35690 Rancho California Road, Temecula.

07/23/2010

Fundraisers to help send Corona softball team to regionals
A handful of fundraisers are being held to help a Corona softball team get to a regional tournament for the first time.

The Corona Girls Softball Association 14-and-under all-stars team is heading to the Western Regional National Championship Tournament in Roseville Aug. 2-8 for what appears to be the first time, league officials said.

Pianist and quartet to play show tunes Aug. 1 at Hemet church
Pianist Wayne Abravanel and his quartet will play show tunes at the Hemet Center for Spiritual Living at 2 p.m. Aug. 1.

Abravanel has played in the Palm Springs area since he moved to from New York 15 years ago.

The church is at 40450 Stetson Ave. in Hemet.

Cost is $15 per person. Information: 951-658-5157, hemetcsl@verizon.net or hemetcrs.org.

07/22/2010

Comic brings act to Ontario
Prepare to laugh at Ontario

Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco, of Chicago, grew up with comedy in his blood. After earning a degree in corporate organizational communications from Northern Illinois University, he realized his passion for stand-up comedy and moved out to Los Angeles.

Barbecue Saturday in Winchester to honor military veterans
A barbecue for all veterans is planned Saturday in the Winchester area, southwest of Diamond Valley Lake.

The event is sponsored by a veterans organization, the Southern California Eagles Chapter of the 101st Airborne Division Association.

Norco Day of the Cowboy celebrations abound
The state National Day of the American Cowboy is kicking off Saturday in Norco with family events related to preserving western heritage and honoring cowboy values.

Gates open at noon at the George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center with an opening ceremony at 12:45 p.m. Admission is $5 or free for children ages 10 and under.

Banning to host downtown street fair Friday night
Kooler Summer Nites returns Friday night to downtown Banning. The weekly summer street fair features live entertainment, food and retail vendors. There will also be a car show Friday night.

The fair is 5:30-9 p.m. in the area of San Gorgonio Avenue and Ramsey Street. Admission is free.

Information: 951-922-4911.

--Erin Waldner

07/20/2010

Car show set for Thursday at Ramona Bowl
The Ramona Music Association is staging a car show on Thursday at the Ramona Bowl, 27400 Ramona Bowl Road, in Hemet.

Registration begins at 4:30 p.m. and the show starts at 5:30. Cost to enter a car is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Each registrant will receive a free ticket to the Stone Soul concert at 8 p.m.

Attendance at the car show is free and open to the public.

07/17/2010

Blues concert to raise money for Big Bear Lake zoo
A blues concert Aug. 7 will help raise money for Big Bear Lake's Moonridge Animal Park.

The park is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. It provides sanctuary and rehabilitation for orphaned and injured animals in the San Bernardino Mountains.

07/15/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, July 16, 2010
Today ESCONDIDO, Cruisin' Grand Car Show, 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, event is free, 760-745-8877.

FALLBROOK, Wheels of Desire: Motorcycle, Motocross and Supercross Show, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. today-Saturday and Monday-Wednesday, and noon Sunday, Fallbrook Art Center, 103 S. Main St., $8 members , 760-728-1414.

07/14/2010

Murrieta 'sew-in' to produce quilts for at-risk kids
A local group providing services to children and families affected by abuse will hold a "sew-in" Saturday at the Murrieta Public Library.

Safe Alternatives For Everyone will sew quilts to be used by law enforcement agencies to comfort children during emergencies. Members of the public are welcome and must bring their own sewing machines. Patterns and materials will be provided.

07/13/2010

Glen Avon park hosting free summer concerts Thursday nights
The Jurupa Valley Summer Concert Series will continue at 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 5 at Glen Avon Heritage Park.

Soul of the River, which was voted best classic rock band at the 2009 Inland Empire Music Awards, is set to perform this Thursday.

There will be no concert July 22. On July 29, the West Coast Rock School will perform, and a gospel-inspirational music night is set for Aug. 5.

Animal Services fundraiser to feature classic cars and more
Hot cars and cool pets will be on display Saturday at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services' first "Park and Bark" event.

Park and Bark will feature a classic car show, raffles, food, vendors and kid bounce houses. Available pets will be offered for adoption at special rates.

07/11/2010

Temecula jazz festival move scores sweet, sour notes
For the last six years, the Temecula Valley International Jazz Festival took place on numerous stages spread throughout Old Town. This year, it happened on a single stage in a parking lot in an industrial park.

The festival -- featuring headliners Pancho Sanchez and Ray Brown Jr., Ella Fitzgerald's son -- went on outside the Temecula Valley Arts and Music Center.

Photo Gallery: Temecula Valley International Jazz Festival

07/10/2010

Native American arts showcase starts Sunday in Idyllwild
A Native American Arts Festival, including a tribute to a Hopi silversmith and teacher, is planned at Idyllwild Arts beginning Sunday.

The festival at venues around the campus showcases artists, tribal elders and scholars addressing art and culture issues in the mountain setting. It includes free programs and exhibits as well as fee-based workshops on subjects from pottery to Navajo inlay jewelry.

07/09/2010

Swing event set for SB Museum
Reservations are still possible for "Swingin' at the Grove" at the San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands, said organizers of the Saturday event.

It takes place 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.

The event includes live big band music, snacks and suds. The cost is $10 per person and reservations are urged.

Organizers plan to transform the museum courtyard into the setting of "an exclusive nightclub."

Temecula International Jazz Festival begins tonight with Ella Fitzgerald tribute
The Temecula Valley International Jazz Festival kicks off at 5 p.m. today with the first of many acts that will pay tribute to legendary singer Ella Fitzgerald.

Photo Gallery: Pre-Jazz Festival Night in Temecula

07/08/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, July 9, 2010
Today ESCONDIDO, Cruisin' Grand Car Show, 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, event is free, 760-745-8877.

MORENO VALLEY, Stoneridge Towne Centre Car Show, 5-8 p.m. Awards, raffle, 50/50, games and '50s, '60s and '70s music by Sounds Divine. Stoneridge Towne Centre, Highway 60 and Nason Street, free.

07/04/2010

Thousands attend Concert for Heroes at Riverside National Cemetery.
Patriotic music filled the air and a fireworks display lit up the sky Saturday night at Riverside National Cemetery as thousands of military veterans and their families packed the amphitheater and surrounding grounds at the 10th annual Concert for Heroes.

Photo Gallery: Concert for Heroes

Thousands line streets for Corona's annual Hometown U.S.A. Parade
One resident along Main Street in Corona put out more than 20 plastic chairs Saturday so his neighbors had a place to sit.

A Riverside couple and their two children arrived two hours early to get curbside seats.

Moreno Valley brings out that hometown spirit
Tim and Kathleen Cooney kept the spirit of America alive at the Moreno Valley Independence Day Parade by passing out miniature flags to children along the milelong route on Frederick Street on Saturday.

Tim Cooney said the gesture was started many years ago by the city's Exchange Club, but he still seeks volunteers and sponsors to keep the program going after they stopped.

University of Redlands astronomer is promoting his book in the national parks
It's barely July and University of Redlands astronomer Tyler Nordgren is well into his summer book tour.

It's not quite the glamorous trip he might have imagined -- swanky hotels with champagne and turn-down service are scarce on his schedule, and Oprah hasn't yet come knocking.

07/03/2010

Wine and Food Festival planned in San Bernardino July 15
A Wine and Food Festival, featuring Temecula wine and gourmet food, will be held in San Bernardino on July 15.

There will be live and silent auctions, with the proceeds to benefit the Center for Individual Development, a regional recreation center for people with disabilities.

07/02/2010

Vietnam Memorial Moving Wall visits Fontana for holiday weekend
The moment the first panel of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Moving Wall was lowered into place Thursday morning, activity halted in the Auto Club Speedway parking lot.

Conversation ceased and all eyes turned to the hundreds of names on the panel. Some people just stared. Others silently snapped photos or videotaped.

"It's quite moving," said Riverside resident Linda Paton.

Video: Replica of war memorial comes to Fontana

Photo Gallery: The Moving Wall in Fontana

Reality TV stars land in Temecula to promote fundraiser
The Reality Rally of Temecula Valley is for real.

If proof is needed, it will be on display at the Star Spangled 4th of July Parade as its float rolls down Old Town Front Street on Sunday.

07/01/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, July 2, 2010
Today ESCONDIDO, Cruisin' Grand Car Show, 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, event is free, 760-745-8877.

GARDEN GROVE, Garden Grove Main Street Car Show, 4 p.m. Gary's Woodcrafts and Country Store, 12931 Main St., free, 714-636-2010.

United Way seeks volunteers for its southwest Riverside County Day of Caring
Bernie Bramante has the perfect way to make a difference in the community: the United Way Day of Caring on Sept. 11.

In the past three years, volunteers have painted houses, planted gardens, cleaned abandoned lots, mentored children and done other good deeds.

Inland Empire 66ers to host baseball clinic for kids
Glen Helen Regional Park in Devore will host the Inland Empire 66ers baseball clinic on July 13 for children ages 5 to 14.

Members of the Inland 66ers baseball team will instruct children in batting, fielding, pitching and running bases. The free clinic is a partnership between the 66ers and San Bernardino County Regional Parks.

06/30/2010

Second birthday celebration planned in Wildomar
A celebration of Wildomar's second year as a city is planned for Monday.

The festivities are scheduled for 5 to 9 p.m. at Marna O'Brien Park, 20505 Palomar St., Wildomar.

The event will include live country music, food, arts and crafts vendors and free activities for children.

Corona celebrates Fourth of July with parade, fireworks
City officials are encouraging the community to join in its Fourth of July celebration.

The holiday weekend kicks off with a parade at 10 a.m. Saturday between Ontario Avenue and Olive Street. The parade includes the U.S. Army 40th Infantry Division Band, the Boy Scouts 100th Year Tribute Band and scout troops.

San Bernardino County Museum offers mini-camp for kids
Children ages 4 to 7 years are invited to attend a three-day mini-camp called Grandma's Attic starting July 7 at the San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands.

Campers will gather in an imaginary attic to build a fort with boxes, make pinwheels, play dress-up and try out old-fashioned toys and games, said educator Nancy Kirkwood.

Run/Walk on Saturday to benefit Temecula-area homeless group
A 5-kilometer run/walk set for Saturday will benefit the homeless outreach group Project TOUCH.

Check-in for the event starts at 7 a.m. at Harveston Sports Park, 28582 Harveston Drive. The race will begin at 8. Cash-only registration is $18 at Mail Mart on Jefferson Avenue in Temecula or $23.25 by registering at active.com.

06/29/2010

Many choices for 4th celebrations, some events on July 2 and 3
Riverside National Cemetery will once again be the site of the Riverside County Philharmonic Orchestra's Concert for Heroes on Saturday celebrating Independence Day with a musical tribute to veterans lost and those still with us.

Poetry is focus of teen workshops at Perris Library
The momentum for Catherine Key-Williams' Teen Poetry Worskhops, which kick off their seventh year in July, got rolling surprisingly easy.

Fans line up in Redlands to see 'eclipse,' the third Twilight Saga movie
Team Edward scored first place in this competition, and that's no accident.

Video: Fans line up early for 'Eclipse'

06/28/2010

Pechanga Pow Wow will be fun, educational event
Singers and dancers from American Indian tribes across the United States will converge on the Pechanga Pow Wow Grounds this weekend for the 15th annual Pechanga Pow Wow.

An event highlight will be a fireworks show at dusk on Saturday.

06/27/2010

Food, fun and fireworks abound as Murrieta turns 19
Thousands of residents and visitors wished Murrieta a happy birthday on Saturday at the city's 19th birthday bash featuring rides, music and numerous food and gift vendors selling everything from kettle corn to Hawaiian shave-ice.

Some 10,000 to 15,000 visitors were expected at the California Oaks Sports Park throughout the day, said Laura Frasso, special events coordinator for the City of Murrieta.

Photo Gallery: Murrieta turns 19

Hemet Public Library celebrates a century of service
Hundreds gathered to celebrate the 100th birthday of the Hemet Public Library on Saturday with events inside and outside the building most of the day.

Stefan Moses, president of the Hemet Library Board of Trustees, said the library grew from an inspiration to full realization during the last 100 years and continues to meet the demands of a growing population.

Video: Hemet celebrates library's 100th anniversary

Corona Relay for Life draws thousands
Seven thousand people with more than 7,000 reasons took part in the 11th annual Corona Relay for Life that began its 24-hour trek around Santana Regional Park on Saturday morning.

There were 102 teams whose members bivouacked at the park for the long day and night.

Photo Gallery: Corona Relay for Life

Perris residents can enjoy July 3 race, fireworks for free
PERRIS

Fast cars, fireworks set for holiday event

City residents are invited to a free race and fireworks show on Saturday to celebrate Independence Day.

The Perris Auto Speedway will host the "Firecracker 30," a 30-lap sprint car race. The city is working with March Air Reserve Base officials to distribute 1,000 tickets to military personnel and their families.

06/26/2010

Moreno Valley's amateur radio group gears up for 'Field Day' exercises
Members of the Moreno Valley Amateur Radio Association will put their emergency-communications skills to the test for 24 hours this weekend as they try to make contact with other "hams" in a nationwide contest.

06/24/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, June 25, 2010
Today

BLOOMINGTON, Classic Car Show, 5-8 p.m. Farmer Boys, 3356 S. Riverside Ave., free entry, 951-371-5833.

COSTA MESA, Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction, 8 a.m. June 25-27. OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, $10-$35, 714-708-1500.

Weekly summer street fair returns to Banning Friday night
Kooler Summer Nights returns to downtown Banning Friday night. Admission is free.

Presented by the Banning Cultural Alliance, the street fair is every Friday night through Aug. 27. It's held 5:30-9 p.m. in the area of San Gorgonio Avenue.

Information: 951-922-4911.

--Erin Waldner

06/23/2010

Redlands Fourth of July shirts, tickets on sale at City Hall
The 2010 Redlands Fourth of July T-shirts are on sale in the City Clerk's office at City Hall, where residents also can purchase tickets to the annual fireworks show.

The image on the back of the white shirts features citrus packing boxes filled with fireworks, pinwheels and flags with a backdrop of Redlands citrus groves, hills and exploding firecrackers overhead.

06/20/2010

Lavender Festival draws thousands to Cherry Valley
Visitors to the sixth annual Lavender Festival in Cherry Valley were impressed with the relaxing atmosphere as they sat in lawn chairs amid Coulter pine and sequoia trees sipping iced tea and lemonade infused with the organic herb.

"The whole ambiance is very low key," said artist Ed Booth, who attended five years as a visitor and this year as an exhibitor. "It's beautiful here -- and very peaceful."

Photo Gallery: Lavender Festival in Cherry Valley

06/18/2010

Star-gazing party set for Friday night in Beaumont
The city of Beaumont will host a star-gazing party tonight at Palmer Park in the Fairway Canyon residential development. The party is dusk to 11 p.m.

Members of the Riverside Astronomical Society are bringing telescopes to share.

To access the park from Interstate 10 exit Cherry Valley Boulevard and continue south through the first stop sign, then make a right at Palmer Avenue.

06/17/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, June 18, 2010
Today ESCONDIDO, Cruisin' Grand Car Show, 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, event is free, 760-745-8877.

HEMET, Gus Jr. Car Show, 5-8 p.m. Gus Jr. No. 15, 1531 E. Florida Ave., free.

Free concert set Thursday in Temecula
Temecula's annual summer concert and movie series kicks off Thursday night with a free concert by Tommy Price and the Stilletos.

The concert by the rockabilly-swing group will take place at the Community Recreation Center Amphitheater, 30875 Rancho Vista Road. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the concert will run from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

San Bernardino's KVCR will launch nation's first 24-hour American Indian television channel
San Bernardino-based KVCR-TV next year will launch the nation's first 24-hour American Indian television channel with the help of a $6 million donation from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

The channel will air programs on the history, culture and current reality of tribes across the country, said James Ramos, chairman of the San Manuel tribe, whose reservation is near Highland.

Temecula Valley charity torch set for Saturday
Officers will be taking to the streets of Temecula this weekend for a run to benefit the Special Olympics.

The 10th annual Temecula Valley Law Enforcement Torch Run is set for Saturday at 2:30 p.m. in front of the Pechanga Resort & Casino, a California Highway Patrol news release said.

Menifee weekend events offer family fun
A Father's Day Campout for dads and their children is set for this weekend at Menifee's La Ladera Park.

Lavender Festival returns to Pass-area resort this weekend
The sixth annual Lavender Festival continues from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday in Cherry Valley.

The two-weekend festival kicked off June 12 and 13. The event includes guided tours of lavender fields, organic products, horse-drawn hayrides and a petting zoo.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and students and free for children 12 and under.

06/16/2010

'Boss' of West Coast Kustoms named to hall of fame
Car nuts call Penny Pichette "Boss," but in a few months, the dynamo who steers West Coast Kustoms, will have a much longer handle: Stater Bros. Route 66 Rendezvous 2010 Cruisin' Hall of Fame inductee.

The state's annual classic car show is going to honor Pichette and three other inductees on Sept. 18 at the California Theatre of Performing Arts, 562 W. 4th St. San Bernardino.

Kooler Summer Nights returns to Banning Friday
Kooler Summer Nights, a summer street fair in downtown Banning, kicks off Friday night.

Previously called Cool Summer Nights, the festival continues 5:30-9 p.m. Fridays through Aug. 27 in the area of San Gorgonio Avenue and Ramsey Street. Admission is free.

For opening night, there will be pony rides, a petting zoo, car show and jazz band. A second car show is scheduled for Aug. 6.

06/15/2010

Weekly Market Night returns to Beaumont starting this Tuesday
Market Night, a weekly summer festival presented by the Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, opens tonight at Noble Creek Park, 650 W. Oak Valley Parkway in Beaumont.

The festival features 50 or so vendors, live entertainment, pet adoptions and a children's area. Admission is free. It will be held from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Aug. 17 at the park and coincides with Family Movie Night under the Stars.

06/14/2010

Comedy for a cause; fighting violence
The last time amateur comedian Lou Adams tried to perform onstage, he broke down in tears.

It was May 2009 and too soon after the death of his son, Louis "Louie" F. Adams III, he said. The 26-year-old had been slain by his mother's abusive boyfriend hours after she kicked the man out of the house.

Inland charity founder raises funds for needy parents whose children have died
Tim Evans' parents were modern pilgrims. Fifty years ago, Gomer and Beryl Evans left their native England to move to the United States to start life over in Holly, Mich.

"We didn't have any blood relatives in the U.S.," Evans said. "The church became my extended family. My parents are heroes. They came over with $400. They were able to give their three boys college educations and a great life."

06/13/2010

Hemet library marking 100th birthday with bestsellers, street fair
The list begins with the opening line of "The Rosary," Florence L. Barclay's 1910 love story:

"The peaceful stillness of an English summer afternoon brooded over the park and gardens at Overdene."

It ends with final line of "The Lost Symbol," Dan Brown's 2009 suspense novel:

"It was an emotion he had never felt this profoundly in his entire life. Hope."

06/12/2010

Artists to paint outdoors at festival in Idyllwild this weekend
Artists will set up their easels in the forest today for a Plein Air Festival event, and visitors will be able to see 3-D art on exhibit in Idyllwild's mountain galleries.

Plein-air means "open air" in French, so artists will be capturing a colorful moment in time painting outdoors from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

06/11/2010

Golf tournament set to support Perris nonprofit
Next month, the state will cut funding to Exceed, a Perris-based nonprofit organization, and it will turn to local golfers to make up for the loss.

The group will host its eighth-annual Exceed Charity Golf Tournament today at the Country Club at Soboba Springs. Proceeds will go to Exceed, which gives work to mentally and physically disabled Inland Empire residents.

Cherry Valley festival showcases lavender
The soothing, sweet-smelling, eye-catching qualities of lavender will be celebrated during an upcoming Cherry Valley festival showcasing the plant.

The sixth annual Lavender Festival at Highland Springs Resort and Farm is set for Saturday and Sunday, and again June 19 and 20 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. The resort and farm is located at 10600 Highland Springs Avenue in Cherry Valley.

06/10/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, June 11, 2010
Today ESCONDIDO, Cruisin' Grand Car Show, 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, event is free, 760-745-8877.

LA HABRA, La Habra Valley Community Fair and Charity Car Show, 4 p.m. Sonora High School, 401 S. Palm St., $1 admission per person, 562 266-2000 AG Department.

Inland Father's Day Digest
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY

Rancho Cucamonga

Father's Day Brunch at Fleming's, June 20, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, 7905 Monet Ave., Rancho Cucamonga, $29 per person, 909-463-0416.

Victorville

Workshops will offer tips for Temecula's Street Painting Festival
If you're thinking of taking part in Old Town Temecula's Street Painting Festival in late June but have never created a large mural, two free workshops can teach you how.

To prepare artists for the festival, set for June 25 through 27, local muralist Jesus Gutierrez will lead a workshop Saturday starting at 9 a.m. in the parking area by the Chaparral Building on Sixth Street in Old Town.

Hemet Elks Lodge embraces bluegrass music
The Hemet Elks Lodge No. 1740 is gaining a reputation as a bluegrass music hangout. For the past five months, the club has hosted a jam session for musicians to play their hearts out and fans to kick their heels up.

Murrieta Fathers' Day car show will roll again
More than 350 classic cars are expected to compete in Murrieta's 40th Fathers' Day Car Show at the California Oaks Sports Park.

The event will pay tribute to the Temecula Valley Car Club, the organization responsible for bringing the show to Murrieta. Vendors will sell food and other wares.

Car registration will start at 6:30 a.m. The event is expected to end about 2 p.m. Admission is free.

Redlands Optimists' car show, chili cook-off set for Saturday
The Redlands Optimist Club will hold its annual Car Show and Chili Cook-Off from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Sylvan Park on University Street.

Idyllwild hosting live painting, art show June 12-13
Visitors can view art being produced and displayed this weekend at the Plein Air Festival and 3-Dimensional Art Show and Gallery Tour sponsored by the Art Alliance of Idyllwild.

From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, artists will be scattered throughout the forest, painting scenes. Visitors can enjoy appetizers as they move among the artists.

06/09/2010

Local dancing 'star' is stunned by win
Former Redlands mayor Carole Beswick and her dance partner Mark Haines took top honors at the Redlands Symphony's Gala's Dancing With the Stars event June 5 at the University of Redlands.

See turtles in Riverside on Saturday
The turtle and tortoise step up into the spotlight, slowly, on Saturday at the Louis Robidoux Nature Center in Riverside. The times are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Weekend run will raise money for two causes
The 5-kilometer Run for the Hills run/walk hosted by Save Our Southwest Hills will start at 9 a.m. Sunday at Ronald Reagan Sports Park in Temecula.

The entry fee is $25 for adults and $15 for high school students and includes a T-shirt. Registration starts at 8 a.m. There will be cash prizes for the winners.

06/06/2010

Riverside's Juneteenth Celebration commemorates freedom from slavery
Whether to peruse black history memorabilia, watch dance performances or enjoy refreshing treats, large crowds turned out Saturday for the 10th annual Inland Empire Juneteenth Celebration at Bordwell Park in Riverside. Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of African-Americans from slavery. It is recognized in June, the month slaves in Texas were notified that they were free. In addition to food and entertainment, Saturday's event included the presentation of book scholarships and community awards. The Riverside Juneteenth Committee, which sponsored the celebration, collected supplies to be donated to area schools.

Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival concludes today
Of the thousands of visitors to the 27th annual Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival at Lake Skinner on Saturday, some came for the balloons, some for the wine but most were there for the fun.

Photo Gallery: Saturday at the Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival

06/05/2010

Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival gets its glow on
First, the music rolled across the field. Next came the savory aroma of barbecue and the sweet smell of funnel cakes and kettle corn.

Then, at last, the hot-air balloons brightened the evening sky as spectators applauded.

So went the first night of the 27th annual Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival, which opened Friday for a three-day run at the Lake Skinner Recreation Area east of Temecula.

Video: Balloon and wine festival's balloon glow

Video: Balloon and wine festival kicks off

Photo Gallery: Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival

06/04/2010

Free lawn bowling classes available in Hemet as hours change
The lawn bowling greens on the north side of Gibbel Park in Hemet have reverted to their summer hours. The greens open at 5:45 p.m. and are available on Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday of every week.

The park is at 2625 W. Devonshire Ave.

06/03/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, June 4, 2010
TODAY ESCONDIDO, Cruisin' Grand Car Show, 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Grand Avenue in downtown Escondido, event is free, 760-745-8877.

MONTCLAIR, Farmer Boys Cruise Night, 5-8 p.m. Awards, door prizes, food discounts and music by Retro Rick. Farmer Boys Restaurant, 10966 Central Ave., free, 951-371-5833.

Artist's work again highlights Temecula balloon festival poster
Shawn McKelvey has designed the winning poster for the Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival.

Again.

This year's winning entry marks the fourth time that the Temecula artist's work will be on the festival poster.

06/02/2010

Temecula balloonist a key volunteer for festival
Recession or not, Rusty Manning's business is always soaring.

On many days, the owner of A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure takes clients on an early-morning balloon ride above Temecula Valley Wine Country. The balloons float over rolling hills and green vineyards in an image that's become a Wine Country symbol.

Video: Prepping for Temecula's balloon and wine festival

05/31/2010

Jet that scored big in Korea on display
"The Korean Air War: From Propellers to Jets" will be the subject of the monthly Living History Flying Event hosted by Planes of Fame Air Museum at the Chino Airport on Saturday.

05/30/2010

West Coast Thunder revs up Monday in Riverside
Thousands of motorcycles will make their way through the streets of Riverside beginning at 9:11 a.m. Monday, as the West Coast Thunder Memorial Day Ride gets under way.

05/29/2010

Civil War veterans to be honored Sunday in Riverside
In honor of Memorial Day, the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War will pay tribute to Union soldiers at noon Sunday at Evergreen Memorial Historic Cemetery, 14th and Pine streets, Riverside.

Lake Elsinore, Wildomar vets plan Memorial Day celebration
Patriotic-themed events, a 21-gun salute and skydivers will highlight the Memorial Day service scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at the Elsinore Valley Cemetery.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1508 in Wildomar and American Legion Post 200 will host the service at the cemetery at 18170 Collier Ave., Lake Elsinore.

Lake Elsinore schedules annual kids fishing derby
The 11th annual Just 4 Kids Fishing Derby is set for June 5 at the levee near Diamond Stadium, 500 Diamond Drive.

Check-in for pre-registered participants begins at 7 a.m. There will be no walk-up registration.

Children 15 and younger should register free prior to Wednesday. Participants will need their own fishing pole and tackle.

Prizes will be awarded.

Youths to compete in finals of 'San Bernardino's Got Talent'
Finalists will compete on June 19 in the San Bernardino's Got Talent Variety Show at the Sturges Center for the Fine Arts in San Bernardino.

The city's bicentennial committee announced finalists in three categories after auditioning 103 young people for the competition.

Tickets cost $7 in advance online at 222.sb200.org or $10 at the door. Prizes of as much as $1,000 will be awarded.

05/28/2010

Big Bear Lake fishing derby planned June 5-6
BIG BEAR LAKE

Prizes increased for lake fishing derby

Fisherman will not have to land the big one to win a prize in Big Bear Lake's 2nd Annual Fishin' for $50K Trout Derby.

05/27/2010

A country fair, live concert to raise funds for a new wolf enclosure
Country fair, live concert to benefit new wolf enclosure

The Moonridge Animal Park in Big Bear will host an old fashion country fair Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with activities for the whole family.

The event will include face painting, jewelry making, a win-a-bear walnut toss, a bear roaring contest and more.

Bikes hit the road on Memorial Day for West Coast Thunder
Motorcycle riders will show their true colors -- red, white and blue -- in a Memorial Day ride.

West Coast Thunder Parade XI will begin at 9:11 a.m. Monday at Skip Fordyce Harley-Davidson dealership at 7688 Indiana Ave. in Riverside and proceed to Riverside National Cemetery.

Street art fest coming in June to Temecula
If you have an artistic streak, think big.

The 10th annual Old Town Temecula Street Painting Festival and third annual Ralph Love Plein Air Festival will be held in Old Town on June 25-27.

The street-painting component is a chance to draw murals on the roadbed along Main Street, east of Front Street.

05/22/2010

Tour of California bike race finish draws crowds to Big Bear Lake
As hundreds, perhaps thousands, of bicycle racing fans clogged the narrow roads in the San Bernardino Mountains on Friday, Big Bear Lake basked in the glory of hosting the finish of the Tour of California's sixth stage race.

Video: Tour of California: The fans | The race | Stage 6 winners

Photo Gallery: Amgen Tour of California

05/21/2010

Armstrong crashes, gets stitches
Lance Armstrong crashed during the Tour of California on Thursday, sending him to the hospital for precautionary X-rays on the day he was accused of doping by former teammate Floyd Landis.

Fair set for next week in Temecula
The annual High Hopes Special Needs Adult Arts & Music Fair is planned for Wednesday in Temecula.

The free event will be from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Old Town Mercantile Building and Theater, 42051 Main St., a city news release said.

The program includes a dance and music recital at 5 p.m. by the Temecula High Hopes participants and a performance by the Hi Hopes band starting at 6 p.m.

Bloomington High to host jazz festival Saturday
Bloomington High School will host jazz bands from four area high schools and Cal State San Bernardino on Saturday.

The 7th Annual Jazz Festival will be held outside on the school grounds from 6 to 9 p.m., with food, drinks and desserts for sale.

Admission is $5.

--Darrell R. Santschi

05/20/2010

Cowboys ready to ride at Pala casino
Reno Rosser has seen both sides of the bull riding business.

As a college student, Rosser took a stab at bull riding. But after a few tries, Rosser decided "the most dangerous eight seconds in sports" was not for him -- at least not the riding side.

Diesel pollution topic of forum in Glen Avon
The Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice tonightwill host an Environmental Health Forum to discuss the links between diesel pollution and serious health problems.

Speakers will include Dr. Rob McConnell, who is part of the scientific team from USC studying children's health in Mira Loma and Rudy Eden from the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

San Bernardino to have bicentennial parade Saturday
More than 80 floats, bands, equestrian units, classic cars and historic re-enactors will participate in San Bernardino's Bicentennial Parade Saturday.

The parade begins at 4 p.m., with a celebration from noon to 9 p.m. in Meadowbrook Park at East 3rd Street and South Sierra Way.

05/19/2010

Moreno Valley candlelight ceremony set to honor veterans
The city of Moreno Valley will conduct a special candlelight sunset Memorial Day ceremony on May 30 at 7:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial at Memorial Circle at the Moreno Valley Civic Center.

The name of Army Spc. Michael A. Dahl, Jr., 23, of Moreno Valley, who was killed in action supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan on Oct. 17, 2009, will be added to the Veterans Memorial.

05/18/2010

United Way to hit the airwaves Saturday
A Saturday telethon will raise money for United Way of the Inland Valleys' programs that help needy Inland residents.

Charter Communications will broadcast the second annual Live United Telethon from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on its channels 31 and 101. Viewers also can watch the show live on the event's website, www.liveunitedtelethon.org.

05/16/2010

Temecula turns back time for Western Days celebration
There were gunshots to the left and music from a fiddle to the right.

Thousands turned out to watch a high-noon bank robbery re-enactment, browse a morning farmer's market and listen to a five-person Western band called Older than Dirt on Saturday, the first of two days in the annual Old Town Temecula Western Days celebration.

05/15/2010

Moreno Valley Senior Center to host crafts fair
The Moreno Valley Senior Center at 25075 Fir Ave. will host an outdoor crafts fair May 28 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Vendors can have rent space for $5.Vendors are encouraged to sell only new or handmade items.

For information, call 951-413-3430.

--Laurie Lucas

05/14/2010

Families, vendors turn out for debut of Perris Farmers Market
Between 2,000 and 3,000 people turned out to enjoy the music, food and festive atmosphere at Perris' first Farmers Market on a balmy Thursday afternoon.

About 25 vendors sold fresh produce, handmade crafts, soccer jerseys and other wares on a two-block stretch of D Street that was closed to traffic between Fourth and Second streets.

Riverside church sets Peace Pole dedication
The Universalist Unitarian Church of Riverside is inviting the community to attend a dedication on Sunday of a peace pole that declares "May peace prevail on earth."

The message on the 6-foot pole is expressed in 12 languages including Arabic, Spanish, Hebrew, Japanese, Braille and American Sign Language.

05/13/2010

Bucking bulls: Even their names are nasty
Like other pedigreed animal (think thoroughbred horses and champion dogs), names of bucking bulls can be an amalgam of their scions' monikers.

But the names can be funny too, considering their size (about 1,500 pounds), brute strength and mission - to knock that cowpoke off their backs.

Mammoth. Mean. Roughs up his co-stars. And that's why he gets the big bucks
It's kind of a showbiz cliché. Father's a big star. Sonny boy is a Grade A flake, a loser.

But this star's son is doing Daddy proud.

Meet High Octane Hurricane. He's a handsome beast with chocolate brown eyes. And is this star big - he weighs in at 1,500 pounds.

'Star Trek' beams down to Riverside museum
When "Star Trek: the Exhibition" lands here next month, the Riverside Metropolitan Museum will be boldly going somewhere it never has before: the realm of blockbuster exhibits.

If the exhibition does as well as officials hope, the expected 40,000 visitors and $800,000 gross revenues would make it the biggest, most profitable show in the 85-year-old museum's history.

05/12/2010

'Backyard Bash' set for Riverside's Bobby Bonds Park
Seven local nonprofit agencies are joining forces to host a May 15 "Backyard Bash" at Bobby Bonds Park.

The event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., will feature live entertainment, games, community activity information booths and the "Taste of Riverside," which features samples from the city's finest restaurants.

Murrieta Valley High band, choir to perform
The Murrieta Valley High School choir and band will put on a free outdoor concert on May 22.

The school's choir, soloists, Crimson Cadets band and color guard and The Valley Winds will perform a selection of jazz pieces. Booster clubs will sell refreshments.

The show starts at 3 p.m. at the Murrieta Town Square Park Amphitheatre.

05/11/2010

Ride of Silence in Murrieta to salute fallen bicyclist
Ernie Sanchez, president of the California Pools/DeWalt amateur cycling team, is fond of socializing when he rides.

Even during past runnings of the Ride of Silence, an event held internationally to raise awareness of cyclists' presence on the road, Sanchez enjoyed chatting with other cyclists.

Western Days coming to Old Town Temecula
Temecula's "Western Days" event, which includes a chili cook-off and Old West skits, is planned for this weekend in Old Town.

There will also be a working blacksmith, calf-roping lessons, pony rides, stage coach rides, people in Old West-style costumes, and a high-noon "shootout and robbery" at The Bank at Old Town Front and Main streets.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

05/08/2010

Swap meet to open at Lake Perris Fairgrounds
An outdoor swap meet at the Lake Perris Fairgrounds is scheduled to open on May 15.

Called the So Cal Fair Marketplace, the open-air swap meet is moving from Beaumont to Perris.

The planned hours will be 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, owner and operator Wayne Howard said.

Concert band performs Tuesday in San Jacinto
"Music From Stage and Screen" is the theme of Mt. San Jacinto College's Concert Band performance at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the theater on the San Jacinto campus, according to a college news release.

05/07/2010

Fundraising race through vineyards is Saturday near Temecula
Runners can race through scenic vineyards in Temecula Valley Wine Country this weekend while helping raise money for community projects.

Katrina concert planned Saturday in Riverside
Wesley United Methodist Church of Riverside plans a benefit concert at The Grove Community Church this Saturday to raise money to assist in building homes in Mississippi for victims of Hurricane Katrina. The church is at 19900 Grove Community Drive, Riverside.

Celebration of Japanese culture set for Saturday in Temecula
A celebration of Japanese culture will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, 42051 Main St.

05/05/2010

Hundreds of volunteers to help 'achieve the impossible' in Redlands cleanup
As many as 600 volunteers are expected to converge on six Redlands parks and a city-owned orange grove Saturday for a day of repairs and cleanup.

The project draws volunteers from various clubs through the Redlands Service Club Council as well as from the Mormon Helping Hands project of the Redlands Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Home Depot and the city.

Redlands Conservancy announces year's lineup of fundraising parties
A lineup of nine parties, with themes that range from jewelry-making to bird watching and bicycling, will raise money for the Redlands Conservancy's project to preserve and raise awareness of the green space in and around Redlands.

05/07/2010

'Idol' contestant makes Inland stop
Andrew Garcia, a former "American Idol" contestant who is from Moreno Valley, will sign autographs at the Moreno Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's Cinco De Mayo celebration on Saturday.

Garcia, who was booted off the singing competition a few weeks ago, will sign autographs from 1 to 2 p.m. His girlfriend, singer Christine Concepcion, will perform at the event.

05/05/2010

Free jazz series continues Wednesday in Riverside
Jazz guitarist Jacques Lesure will lead a quartet in a free concert Wednesday at La Sierra University.

The 7 p.m. concert, part of the school's Pierce Street Jazz series, will be held at 11500 Pierce St.

Weekly Harvest Market starts Wednesday in San Bernardino
A weekly Harvest Market, with fresh produce, food vendors and crafts, begins today in downtown San Bernardino.

The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Court Street Square between D and E streets.

Live music is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the performers varying from week to week.

05/04/2010

Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival needs volunteers
Volunteers are still needed for the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival.

Volunteers will work four-hour shifts in souvenir sales, admissions, kids faire and wine and beer sales. Workshops for volunteers are at 9 a.m. May 15 and 6 p.m. May 17 at the Rancho California Water District, 42135 Winchester Road, Temecula.

05/03/2010

70th run of the Great Y Circus is coming to Redlands
The ringmaster describes it as organized chaos. And that it is.

Around 4:30 p.m., Roy Coble Gymnasium in Redlands begins to fill with unicyclists, wire walkers, trapeze and ribbon artists, jugglers and acrobats.

The noise level rises as more than 300 people wander in. A whistle blasts, music begins and the rehearsal for the Great All American Youth Circus is under way.

Video: Redlands YMCA youth circus

Photo Gallery: Youth circus prepares for shows

05/02/2010

Teens display their wheels at Murrieta's Teen Car Show
For some teens, Murrieta's sixth's annual Teen Car Show was a rare chance to show off their wheels.

Brenden Gibbs, 18, of Murrieta, stood with two friends at the Friday event, flipping through an album of photos of his 1987 Mustang GT while listing the improvements he had made.

"All new engine, tranny, rear end, exhaust, brakes, stereo," he said.

Riverside celebrates Cinco de Mayo
Saturday was a big day for 88-year-old Simona Valero.

The lifelong resident of Riverside's Casa Blanca neighborhood was helping to stock food booths in Villegas Park for the community's 103rd annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta.

"I take a lot of pride in my community," she said. "This is a small community, but look what we have here because of the efforts of a lot of people."

Hungry hordes descend on chili, menudo cook-off in San Bernardino
The aroma of fresh-cooked chili and simmering menudo wafted across the grounds of the National Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino Saturday as thousands of hungry visitors poured in the gates to taste some of the best of both.

The center was home to the 37th Annual California State Chili Championship and its adopted cousin: the 6th Annual Inland Empire Menudo Championship.

Photo Gallery: Chili cookoff and menudo championship

Crowds get an up-close look at F-22 Raptors at March Airfest in Moreno Valley
Camouflage covered the 300 mm camera lens that Tunz Tran and his brother, Tunz Ngueyn, used to photograph the flight of the airplanes performing at the March Airfest on Saturday.

But there was no disguising the respect Tran, of Tustin, had for the men and women in uniform at the March Air Reserve Base in Moreno Valley.

Photo Gallery: March Airfest

Free jazz series continues Wednesday in Riverside
Jazz guitarist Jacques Lesure will lead a quartet in a free concert Wednesday at La Sierra University. The 7 p.m. concert, part of the school's Pierce Street Jazz series, will be held at 11500 Pierce St.

05/01/2010

Banning Public Library offers Pass area's only bilingual story time
Sitting on the floor of the children's room at the Banning Public Library, Candee Torrez opened and ended her story time session with songs.

The first was "Buenas Tardes" -- good afternoon -- and the second was "Hasta Luego" -- see you later.

In between, she read three children's stories, each one in Spanish followed by a rough English translation.

This is bilingual story time.

Antique trucks roll into Perris train museum
The look of big-rig trucks hasn't changed as much as the design of Corvettes since the mid-20th century.

To the 1,500 spectators expected to attend the 25th annual Antique Truck Show and Swap Meet on Sunday, the appeal of a 1955 Kenworth big rig is no less than the appeal of a '55 Chevy roadster.

Car show continues in downtown Riverside
The 12th annual Show and Go Car Show for Charity continues today and Sunday in downtown Riverside.

The grand marshal's parade is at 10:30 a.m. today.

Skaters Challenge set for May 8 in Temecula
The 2010 Temecula Skaters Challenge will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 8 in the skate park portion of Ronald Reagan Sports Park.

The challenge is open to un-sponsored skaters ages 5 and up. There will be a one-minute open skate. Safety gear and a liability waiver are required.

Registration starts at 9:30 a.m.

Information: 951-694-6410.

--Jeff Horseman

Concert today will celebrate life of slain Temecula musician
The second annual Bipsyfest is set for 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. today in Lake Elsinore.

The event features performances by local musicians and is named after Elizabeth "Bipsy" Amirian, a singer and songwriter who was killed in Temecula in February 2009.

The event is at Lambs Fellowship, 21901 Railroad Canyon Road, Lake Elsinore. A $4 donation is requested, with the proceeds going to charity.

04/30/2010

Inland menudo championship highlights family pride behind the dish
Mario Cabral can predict what some customers will order on weekend mornings as they lumber into Olivia's Mexican Restaurant in Riverside.

"When I see those weekend warriors come in, I know what they're going for," the restaurateur said.

A night of hard partying calls for a hot bowl of menudo, spicy tripe-and-hominy stew, popular for its hangover curing properties.

Bonnes Meres collects 3,419 gifts for children at luncheon
Bonnes Meres Auxiliary of Redlands, an auxiliary of the Children's Fund, collected 3,419 gifts for children at its annual Birthday Luncheon at the Redlands Country Club on Wednesday.

04/29/2010

A day of rods, barbecue, music and more
A day of rods, barbecue, music and more

Got a love for hot rods and classic cars? Want to spend time with others who feel the same? Then visit downtown Riverside this weekend and see nearly 1,000 classic cars, hot rods, import and motorcycles at the 12th annual Show and Go Car Show for Charity.

Ink icons appear at Ontario festival
By At Rock the Ink, you can expect a lot of color -- and not just on skin.

"You don't have to be into tattoos. It's a lifestyle festival. I call it a 21st century carnival," said Paul Zukoski, who co-founded the event with his wife, Irene Zukoski.

Rock the Ink, this weekend at the Ontario Convention Center, will have more than 150 tattoo artists, but that's not all.

Star Trek exhibit coming to Riverside in June
The largest traveling exhibition of Star Trek memorabilia and information will be beamed into downtown Riverside this summer for an eight-month run at the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. "Star Trek the Exhibition: Where Science Meets Science Fiction" will open the week of June 15 in the former Sweeney Gallery space on Main Street.

Banning's Stagecoach Days debuts new Web site
Stagecoach Days has a new Web site, according to a notice from the city of Banning. The address is www.stagecoachdays.net.

Stagecoach Days, an annual fair and parade in Banning, is Sept. 9-12.

--Erin Waldner

04/28/2010

Banning to host art festival Saturday
For a fifth year, the Art Hop returns to downtown Banning from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Admission is free.

Presented by the Banning Cultural Alliance, the festival will feature more than 60 vendors and a variety of artists and artwork. There will be ethnic art, Lego art, youth art, even canvas shoe art.

A chocolatiere will demonstrate how to create chocolate flowers.

04/26/2010

Women's bike clinic planned for May in Redlands
Women cyclists who want to improve their riding skills, or maybe even get into racing, can get information and advice at a two-day clinic in May.

Riders can learn about bicycle maintenance, conditioning, efficient pedaling and gearing and riding etiquette, said Andrea Hensler, a bicyclist who is a member of Team PossAbilities and the clinic organizer.

04/25/2010

More than 2,000 join to Race for Humanity in Menifee
Raymond Dominguez came out to the Mt. San Jacinto Community College Menifee campus on Saturday morning to win.

Others, like Carrie Begley and her daughters, were looking only for a family day in the sun.

"I just liked having my sister run with me," said McKenna Begley, 12. She, her 4-year-old sister Malloree and her mother Carrie ran the 5K at the fourth annual Race for Humanity fundraiser.

Photo Gallery: 2010 Race for Humanity

Temecula's annual rose festival set for May 1-2
Lynn Anderson sang, "I never promised you a rose garden."

Clearly she wasn't a member of the Temecula Valley Rose Society.

The society will host its 16th annual Rose & Arts Festival May 1-2 at the Temecula Community Recreation Center. This year's theme is "A Moment of Magic."

04/24/2010

Roses welcome at Temecula festival
The Temecula Valley Rose Society will host its annual Rose & Arts Festival next weekend.

The free festival will feature roses, live music, floral artwork, light refreshments and an exhibit by the Temecula Valley Garden Club, which is co-hosting the event.

The event is from noon to 4 p.m. May 1 and 2 at the Temecula Community Recreation Center, 30875 Rancho Vista Road.

Special Olympics benefit set for May 8 in Temecula
A "Break-A-Thon" to benefit Special Olympics will take place at noon May 8 in the plaza in front of the Edwards Theaters at The Promenade mall in Temecula.

People who make donations will get the chance to break at least one board.

Demonstrations by an American Taekwondo Association instructor will be held hourly until 5 p.m.

There will also be a Wii tournament and free popcorn and water.

Temecula Wine & Music Festival is next weekend
The sixth annual Temecula Wine & Music Festival will take place from noon to 7 p.m. May 1 at Vail Lake Resort, 38000 Highway 79 South.

Proceeds will benefit All From the Heart, a non-profit group assisting military families in need. Musicians scheduled to perform include "American Idol" guitarist Paul Jackson Jr. and pianist/composer Gregg Karukas.

04/23/2010

Church members to spend Sunday cleaning up San Jacinto Valley
Once a year, parishioners of Community Christian Church in Hemet take their service to God and their love for the San Jacinto Valley to the streets instead of to Sunday sermon.

Now in its third year, The Big Serve has spread to include other churches and organizations. On Sunday, more than 1,000 volunteers are expected to clean and beautify several locations throughout Hemet and San Jacinto.

Moreno Valley trying to trim budget for July 4 celebration
Facing an $11 million to $17 million budget gap, Moreno Valley is looking at ways to trim at least $30,000 from the city's traditional July 4 celebration.

First SpringFest coming to Perris this weekend
The City of Perris is hosting its first SpringFest this weekend, a two-day event featuring music, food, face-painting and other activities on downtown D Street.

City officials hope the festival will draw hundreds of residents and out-of-town visitors to the city, which is preparing to celebrate its centennial in 2011.

Hemet Elks golf tournament benefits veterans, offers prizes
The Hemet Elks Lodge is hosting a golf tournament to raise money for the Elks' veterans service program.

The tournament is scheduled for May 23 at Golden Era Golf Course, 19871 U.S. Highway 79 in Gilman Hot Springs. The registration deadline is May 10.

Cost is $35 per person and includes coffee, doughnuts and lunch. Prizes are $125 for first place, $100 for second and $75 for third.

04/22/2010

Riverside's Wood Streets Green Team garden tour holds lessons on using fewer natural resources
Rain barrels, compost bins and solar panels are just the beginning of sustainable living at the Riverside home of John and Sandi Fay.

The couple's yard boasts minimal grass, drip irrigation and an orchard that produces enough citrus for them, their friends and a homeless shelter for most of the year.

Photo Gallery: Riverside Green Team's "How-to Garden Tour" Preview

Grape Day set for Temecula Valley Wine Country
Despite progress in keeping a dreaded pest at bay, more work is needed to prevent another outbreak of Pierce's Disease in Temecula Valley Wine Country, according to an entomologist and a manager for a wine industry trade group.

Senior artists display creations this weekend in Rubidoux
The Eddie Dee Smith Senior Center will host its 6th Annual Art Exhibit and Sale on April 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event will feature art, ceramics, photography and sewn quilts created by seniors from the Smith Senior Center and other area senior community centers.

The Smith Senior Center is at 5888 Mission Blvd.

Information: 951-275-9975.

--Sandra Stokley

04/21/2010

Redlands museum offers classes in basket-making
The education division of the San Bernardino County Museum will hold basket-making workshops at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. May 8.

Participants, including children 8 and older, will learn about the natural materials used to make baskets, weave a traditional-style doll with palm leaves and construct round reed baskets.

1860 gold rush topic for lecture at Cal State San Bernardino
A free lecture on the Southern California Gold Rush of 1860 will be offered at noon April 28 at the Pfau Library at Cal State San Bernardino.

Bill Sapp, a San Bernardino National Forest archeologist, has led an applied archeology field school in Holcomb Valley near Big Bear Lake for the past three years. The valley was the site of Southern California's biggest gold rush in the 1860s.

Beaumont High Booster Club to hold Comedy Night
The Beaumont High School Athletic Booster Club is holding a Comedy Night on May 1. The night of laughs will feature comedians Johnny Walker and Lachlan Patterson.

Admission is $40 per person or $375 for a table for ten. Price includes dinner, dessert and a drink coupon.

04/20/2010

Hemet car show includes food, entertainment
The Knights of Columbus will hold its third classic car show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 26340 Soboba St., in Hemet.

There will be food, music, vendors and drawings for prizes. Registration and information: Mark, 951-652-1155.

--Brian Rokos

04/19/2010

Performance Riverside has a plan to fill a funding gap
Musical theatrical producer Performance Riverside will hold more fundraisers, seek new grants and raise ticket prices by $2 to $5 to cover the loss of $200,000 in underwriting.

Mt. San Jacinto College offers College Hour to help students connect with each other
Mt. San Jacinto College students sketched with chalk on the San Jacinto campus pavement on a recent weekday -- taking a break from classes with a mission to honor the women in their lives.

It was part of College Hour, a new feature this semester on the San Jacinto and Menifee campuses that offers a mix of entertainment, fun and academic-related information.

04/18/2010

Large crowds turn out for Riverside's annual Salute to Veterans parade
Images took the place of medals to symbolize the contributions of the Vasquez family of Corona to the U.S. military over the years.

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival rocks amid long waits, handful of no-show acts
A sold-out crowd at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival braved hot weather, entrance delays and gridlocked traffic Saturday to check out musical acts ranging from rock to bluegrass.

Jam-packed audiences were expected Saturday night for headliner Muse, just as the venue was filled to the brim for Friday's headliner Jay-Z.

04/17/2010

Norco hosts 'Horseweek'
Decades ago parents in Horsetown USA kicked off Horseweek.

The community, known for its homage to the horse, sought to keep teenagers in town after Easter Sunday instead of heading off to Palm Springs for spring break and potential trouble, said Horseweek chair Corky Blair.

Redlands water park may reopen in time for summer season
After painstaking review and a final public hearing, the Redlands Planning Commission has unanimously approved a conditional-use permit that will allow Pharaoh's Lost Kingdom to reopen as a water park in time for summer.

Aladdin Entertainment, which owns the park, hopes to reopen by Memorial Day, said Pat Meyer, representing owners Jim and Art Braswell.

Coachella takes off in the desert, despite traffic and stranded bands
Despite traffic, long lines, unexpected heat and, believe it or not, a volcano, Coachella rocked on.

A sold-out crowd of 75,000 descended on the desert city of Indio for the 11th annual Coachella Music and Arts Festival on Friday, looking forward to a late-night performance by Jay-Z.

Photo Gallery: COACHELLA PHOTOS, FRIDAY: Jay-Z

Temecula Challenge bike race begins Saturday
The two-day Temecula Challenge starts Saturday morning with races that will take bicyclists from the Old Town area to San Diego County and Temecula Valley Wine Country.

The 50-mile race to Mt. Palomar and the 100-mile race to northern San Diego County start at 7 a.m. and the 25-mile race to the Wine Country area starts at 8:30 a.m. All three begin in front of Baily's at 28699 Old Town Front St.

Colton hospital offers help to diabetes patients
Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton offers a Diabetes Support Group on the last Tuesday of each month except December.

The group meets from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Oak Conference Room in the main lobby of the medical center, at 400 N. Pepper Ave.

The group helps people who have diabetes and their families and friends copy with the challenges of the disease.

Information: 909-580-2701.

04/16/2010

Teen Expo set Saturday at Jurupa Valley Spectrum
The 14th Annual Teen Expo is set for tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jurupa Valley Spectrum.

The event is free and will offer teenagers health education material, college and career information and employment opportunities.

Entertainment will include a BMX bike performance and live music by student bands.

De Anza symposium in Rubidoux cancelled
A two-day symposium on Juan Bautista de Anza set for this morning at Crestmore Manor in Rubidoux and tomorrow at Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park in Riverside has been canceled due to disappointing sign-ups for the event.

De Anza was the first Spanish explorer to blaze a trail through what is now Riverside County.

Information: 951-955-4300.

--Sandra Stokley

Parade honors men and women in uniform
We love a man (and woman) in a uniform

04/15/2010

Norco kicks off Horseweek
The 40th annual Norco Horseweek is begins this week with a rodeo Friday and a parade Saturday.

The annual celebration runs through April 25, kicking off with Family Rodeo Night at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Ingalls Park Moreno Arena, 3737 Crestview Ave.

That event is followed by the Horseweek Parade at 10 a.m. Saturday on Sixth Street starting at Valley View Avenue and ending at Ingalls Park.

04/14/2010

University of Redlands recognized as Tree Campus
The University of Redlands, designated a Tree Campus by the Arbor Day Foundation, will host a tour of some of its noteworthy trees at 5 p.m. Friday.

Redlands is one of four colleges and universities in California to receive the honor, which recognizes its dedication to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship, the Arbor Day Foundation states. Nationwide, 74 campuses were honored.

04/12/2010

Coachella music fest sells out, Ticketmaster says
Tickets for the 2010 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, which starts Friday at the Empire Polo Field in Indio, have sold out, according to Ticketmaster.

This year was the first that festival organizers decided to sell only three-day passes and no single-day tickets.

Preserving Redlands' open space is goal for conservancy fundraiser
Greenbelts, trails, parks and parties will be highlighted at Emerald Jubilee 5, a fundraising event hosted April 20 by the Redlands Conservancy.

The exposition, set for 6 to 9 p.m. at the Mitten Building in downtown Redlands, will include the unveiling of 10 Parties for the Necklace, a series of events throughout the city this year that will raise money for open-space preservation.

04/11/2010

Warrior Dash draws 13,000 extreme athletes to Lake Elsinore
A short hike or a bike ride may be the usual weekend exercises for most people, but Scott Bales chose to leap over fire and crawl through mud to work his body.

"It's a different way to challenge your body," said the 44-year-old from Hemet.

Bales is one of 13,000 athletes who are participating in an extreme sports race Saturday and today at Storm Stadium in Lake Elsinore.

Photo Gallery: Warrior Dash in Lake Elsinore

Banning Library will trade food for fines during National Library Week
For National Library Week, the Banning Library is offering to forgive fines for food.

For every nonperishable food item brought to the Banning Public Library or its Cabazon branch Monday through Friday, the library will waive the fine on one overdue item. The overdue material must be brought in along with the food.

Donations will go to the LifePoint Church food pantry in Banning.

04/10/2010

Carnival fun raises funds for Corona-Norco schools
The lure of a carnival with rides, games, food and fun brought parents, grandparents, young children and teenagers to the parking lot of The Promenade Shops at Dos Lagos in Corona on Friday evening.

A few of them said they were there to support the Corona-Norco Schools Educational Foundation, which is sponsoring the four-day event and sharing the profits as its first public fundraiser.

Inland teen overcoming paralyzing disease to take part in fundraising walk
Ashlie Snyder is an ebullient 13-year-old from Big Bear City who is still recovering from an insidious neurological disorder that started with a tingling in her feet last June 26 and quickly crept up her body, paralyzing body parts as it progressed.

At its peak, five days later, her neck could no longer support her head and a machine did her breathing.

04/08/2010

Thornton Winery announces Champagne Jazz lineup
Thornton Winery in Temecula has announced the lineup for its 2010 Champagne Jazz Series. The 22nd annual series will kick off with Euge Groove & Down to the Bone April 25 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $55 general admission or $120 for the gourmet supper package.

The Champagne Jazz Series will feature 20 concerts with artists such as Keiko Matsui, Peter White, Dave Koz and Brian Culbertson.

History of 'Mother Road' to be chronicled at Cal State San Bernardino
Historian Nick Cataldo will lecture on the 'Mother Road,' the storied Route 66 that stretched from Chicago to Santa Monica, during a celebration Saturday at Cal State San Bernardino.

Route 66, which passed through San Bernardino, was a major traffic route from the Midwest to the West for 40 years.

04/07/2010

World War II bomber offers rides over French Valley
During World War II, Henry Rivas flew more than 20 missions over German towns, including Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt. Sometimes he flew; other times he dropped the bombs.

Flying in a restored B-17 bomber on Tuesday, the Murrieta man was brought instantly back.

Video: WWII-era B-17 arives at French Valley Airport

Photo Gallery: Take a Ride in the Flying Fortress

Worn-out athletic shoes can be recycled for Earth Day
Worn-out athletic shoes can be dropped off for recycling during an Earth Day event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdayat the Frontier Project in Rancho Cucamonga.

Week of Young Child family fair set at Redlands museum
A family fair celebrating the Week of the Young Child is set for the San Bernardino County Museum on April 17.

The event is a collaboration of the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools' KidsNCare program, First 5 San Bernardino, the Child Care Planning Council and the county Preschool Services Department.

MV to put artists on display at street fair
moreno valley

Artists on display at street fair

04/04/2010

Benefit concert scheduled to assist Helping Our People in Elsinore
The first major fundraiser to benefit the charitable organization Helping Our People in Elsinore is set for April 30 in Lake Elsinore.

Country-western singer Michelle Ross, of Menifee, will perform at 7 p.m. at the Links at Summerly, on the lawn overlooking the golf course and the lake. Tickets are $13, and seating is limited to about 250, organizers said.

04/03/2010

Anza event set this month
The Riverside County Park and Open-Space District will host a two-day event to mark the trip of Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza through what would become Riverside County.

"On the Trail of Juan Bautista de Anza" will begin April 16 at 9 a.m. at Crestmore Manor in Rubidoux and continue on April 17 at Martha McLean-Anza Narrows Park in the city of Riverside.

Barn dance to benefit food pantry planned in Menifee
A community barn dance benefitting the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard will be held from 7 to 9:30 p.m. April 24 at the Wheatfield Park Community Center, 30627 Menifee Road.

Bill and Colleen Ackerman will teach a variety of dances, including line dance, folk dance, circle mixers, partner dance and more at the dance, which is sponsored by the Valley-Wide Recreation & Park District.

04/02/2010

LAS VEGAS DEALS: ORBITING PLANET HOLLYWOOD
ORBITING PLANET HOLLYWOOD Planet Hollywood is running the $100,000 Phamous Escape promotion April 9-19.

Events set Saturday in San Bernardino County to benefit library, youth club
Lake Gregory will be the setting for a couple of community events and fundraisers Saturday, co-sponsored by San Bernardino County.

A pancake breakfast, hosted by the Crestline Friends of the Library, will be held at 8 a.m. at the San Moritz Lodge. Proceeds will go towards buying books and other materials.

04/01/2010

Can't-miss room packages in Las Vegas
Las Vegas hotels keep coming up with unique packages to bring in visitors. Two of the more unusual ones are at the MGM Grand's Signature Hotel and at the Luxor.

The Signature, a suites-only tower with no casino, has three special offers available.

HANG ON, BULL-RIDERS BACK IN LAS VEGAS
BULL RIDERS BACK

Professional bull riders will be in Las Vegas on April 16-18 to vie for the Bull Riders World Cup. The U.S. has dominated the cup but riders from Canada, Mexico, Australia and Brazil will be competing against the U. S. at the Thomas & Mack Center to upset the front runners (or riders).

Las Vegas dimmed the lights, but party wasn't over
Dim the lights, but party isn't overIf anyone was in town last Saturday night and noticed the dimming of the lights throughout the valley from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., it wasn't caused by a lack of water over the Hoover Dam. It was a preplanned dimming sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund to raise awareness of climatic changes.

Garth Brooks returning to Las Vegas' Encore Showroom
COWBOY'S RETURN

Mark your cowboy calendars. The next scheduled appearance for Garth Brooks at Las Vegas' Encore Showroom is April 9-11.

Rockabilly rocks Las Vegas hotel
VIVA ROCKABILLY

This is a Viva Las Vegas! Rockabilly Weekend at the Orleans Showroom. Actually the show started on Thursday evening and lasts through Monday nights. Who knew the weekends were so long in Las Vegas?

Shooters have a blast at new Vegas gun park
HAVING A BLAST

The Clark County Shooting Park opened last week at 11357 N. Decatur Boulevard. The park has ranges for pistol, rifle and archery advocates. And, hopefully, no close neighbors.

Worst casino bets
Frank Scoblete, author and columnist, in an article in the March issue of Casino Player added a wider variety to his list of worst bets in a casino.

His best bet list only covered table games and specifically ignored poker and Sic Bo.

In the worst bet list, slot machines and keno were added into the mix, but video poker was ignored - on purpose.

04/02/2010

Choreographed motocross show combines cirque, freestyle stunts
Picture this: Two groups are vying for power in a post-apocalyptic world. The battles are set to pulse-pounding rock music and bright pyrotechnics.

You can see that action Friday and Saturday in Ontario when the Metal Mulisha and the Soldiers of Havoc face off in the Nuclear Cowboyz Freestyle Motocross tour at the Citizens Business Bank Arena.

Photo Gallery: Nuclear Cowboyz

04/01/2010

Hidden Valley Nature Center Hosts Duck Daze May 1 and Upcoming Summer Camps
Hidden Valley Nature Center's annual Duck Daze have shifted from January to May this year,  a result of winter rains.

03/31/2010

Redlands Conservancy kicks off 'Trails at 10' hikes on Saturday
The Redlands Conservancy will kick off its "Trails at 10" Spring Series of Trail Excursions at 10 a.m. Saturday with a hike that starts at the city's historic Panorama Point.

Teen's performance of original song wins Redlands talent show
Lyric Mena, 14, won the fifth annual Youth Coalition Teen Council Talent Show with her performance of an original song at the March 19 show, Redlands officials announced Monday.

Seven acts competed for cash prizes at the talent show, city spokesman Carl Baker said in a news release. The performances were at the Redlands Community Center.

Golf tournament in Yucaipa set to help animals
The Yucaipa Animal Placement Society and Yucaipa Valley Rotary will hold a golf tournament benefiting YAPS April 24 at the Yucaipa Valley Golf Course.

The entry fee is $100 per golfer or $350 for a foursome. Fees include golf, golf cart, lunch and a goodie bag.

03/30/2010

Moreno Valley Master Chorale plans spring concert
The Moreno Valley Master Chorale and Orchestra, directed by Viorel Gheorghe, will present a spring concert at 4 p.m. April 1l at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran church, 11650 Perris Blvd.

The performance will feature Haydn's "Theresien Mass" and Chopin's "Piano Concerto No. 2," featuring Italian pianist Mattia Ometto.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors, students and children.

03/28/2010

Tykes take on Redlands bike race
It's a Redlands Bicycle Classic tradition.

On Saturday, the third day of the four-day bicycle races, professional riders give way in the morning to amateurs -- age 3 to 50 -- who ride through downtown Redlands on everything from tricycles to lavish road bikes.

More than 200 riders turned out in the early morning for the first-ever fun ride sponsored by Redlands Unleashed Fidos and Friends, or RUFF.

Photo Gallery: Redlands Bicycle Classic - Day 3: Kids Races

Winds don't deter Airshow spectators
Strong winds affected skydivers and everything else in all directions Saturday at the 18th Riverside Airshow. The wind was so strong that the 400,000-pound C-17 Globemaster had to be moved from its display spot at the western edge of the tarmac to the west end of the runway at the Riverside Airport.

Photo Gallery: 18th annual Riverside Airshow

Pipes, drums bring a wee bit o' Scotland to Riverside
The Canyon Crest Country Club community in Riverside woke to the sounds of the Scottish Highlands on Saturday as more than 50 participants competed in the first Harry Moore Memorial Solo Piping and Drumming Competition.

The Santa Ana winds swayed the competitors' heavy kilts as pipers and drummers from as far away as Colorado and Arizona competed both inside the country club and out on the grassy lawns.

03/27/2010

Temecula is base for Motomarathon
Temecula will be a launching point this weekend for a series of long-distance motorcycle rides combining endurance with sightseeing.

The first-ever Southern California Motomarathon began Friday and runs until Monday. Forty to 50 riders from across the country will ride hundreds of miles through twisting, unfamiliar terrain. The routes are kept secret until the night before each day's ride.

Running Springs' 'Daffodil Lady' to sign books Saturday
Gene Bauer, who used to open her extensive daffodil garden in Running Springs to visitors each spring, will sign copies of her book, "Botanical Serigraphs: The Gene Bauer Collection," from 1 to 3 p.m. today at the Barnes & Noble bookstore in Redlands' Citrus Plaza.

Beaumont hosts part of Redlands race
Some 300 men and women took to the streets of Beaumont on Friday for the Beaumont Circuit Race, marking day two of the Redlands Bicycle Classic.

Among the riders was Joshua Alexander, a 25-year-old from Trinidad who trains in New York and was riding in the classic for the first time.

"The hills are the toughest part of the race," he said.

Photo Gallery: Redlands Bicycle Classic - Day 2

Art demonstration set for Hemet art association meeting
HEMET

Art demonstration at Simpson Center

Jill Jones of Brain Waves Art Studios will demonstrate her craft at the Hemet Valley Art Association's meeting at 1:30 p.m. April 14 at the Simpson Center, 305 E. Devonshire Ave. in Hemet.

03/26/2010

Look up, Riverside is having an air show
The F-4 Phantom was the workhorse fighter of the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps during the Vietnam War as well as the show horse of the Air Force Thunderbird and Navy Blue Angel flight demonstration teams.

03/25/2010

Bagpipes and drums to be music to the ears at UCR
When it comes to bagpipes, there doesn't seem to be any middle ground.

"Fifty percent of us hate 'em -- fifty percent of us love 'em," said Mike Terry, pipe major of the award-winning UC Riverside Pipe Band.

For the "love 'em" half of the population, this weekend's Harry Moore Memorial Solo Piping and Drumming Competition might be music to their ears.

03/24/2010

Bicycle classic brings pedals and pancakes to Redlands
It's for fans of serious cycling. People who like a leisurely bike ride. World-class competitors. And folks who appreciate a really good pancake breakfast.

It's this weekend's Redlands Bicycle Classic -- a mix of pro and amateur races, street-side entertainment, vendors and family fun.

03/25/2010

Helping youths is league goal
The Assistance League of Riverside is engaged in nearly a dozen philanthropic projects that help clothe, comfort and educate local children.

With more than 270 volunteers donating their time and talents, the league is able to raise funds to improve the lives of Riverside children.

03/24/2010

Warrior Dash, Frontier Days to bring fun to Lake Elsinore next month
One event will feature mud and flames and the other carnival rides and gunslingers. And both will be in Lake Elsinore next month.

The Warrior Dash will draw an estimated 6,000 participants and 2,000 spectators and is scheduled the weekend of April 10-11, organizers said. Waves of up to 500 people will run, crawl, climb and jump through mud, over fire and atop hay bales as they negotiate the three-mile course.

Redlands Bicycle Classic events start Thursday
The 26th annual Redlands Bicycle Classic begins its four-day run Thursday with time trials for professional racers in the east end of the city.

Bike riding in Redlands for fitness and fellowship
Every other Saturday, a group of people get up early for a doctor's appointment in Redlands.

It's anything but your typical doctor's visit.

Video: Dr. Steve Wilson's 'Ride Yourself Fit' cycling group

03/23/2010

Work by special education students highlighted in Riverside art show
Special education students and those who work with them will participate in the fourth annual Very Special Art Fair on Thursday.

The art show, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday at Ramona High, 7675 Magnolia Ave., Riverside, will feature work by more than 600 special education students throughout the Riverside Unified School District, from its Sunshine Early Childhood Center to classes for adults.

Wildomar class band hits the right note
Most every afternoon, the fourth- and fifth-grade students in Tim Bedley's class at Wildomar Elementary School end their day with a 30-minute jam session.

Corona solar project gets ribbon-cutting event today
A ribbon cutting honoring completion of the city's third-largest solar panel project is planned at 5:30 p.m. today at Aircraft Spruce and Speciality West, 225 Airport Circle.

A presentation about the benefits of solar projects for buildings and homes, rebates and federal tax credits, a video and refreshments will be offered.

Riverside high school band plans golf tournament in Moreno Valley
Organizers of the Riverside King Band & Color Guard's fifth annual golf tournament are seeking sponsors and golfers.

The tournament will be May 15 at Moreno Valley Ranch Golf Course. Check-in will begin at 6:15 a.m., a putting contest is set for 7 a.m. and shotgun start will be at 8 a.m. Registration of $100 per golfer includes range balls, continental breakfast, a barbecue lunch and gift bag.

Animal emotions subject for museum's book discussion group
"When Elephants Weep: the Emotional Lives of Animals," by Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson and Susan McCarthy, will be the topic for the April 14 meeting of the Reading Discoveries book discussion group at the San Bernardino County Museum.

The book explores the question of whether animals experience emotions and argues that they do.

San Bernardino County museum to host Chemistry Fair
The San Bernardino County Museum will observe Chemistry Appreciation Day with activities and demonstrations from noon to 5 p.m. April 10.

Chemistry Club students from Cal State San Bernardino will help with the activities, which will include freezing flowers and fruits with liquid nitrogen, making silly putty and experiments with polarity.

03/22/2010

Redlands dog park group hopes for spring groundbreaking at Ford Park
A corner of Ford Park, home to tennis courts, lakes and rolling green hills, will soon be going to the dogs.

A 1.2-acre patch of the park on Redlands' east side will be fenced off into two sections where dogs can play off-leash while their owners watch from picnic tables and benches.

03/21/2010

Bluegrass Festival continues Sunday in Old Town Temecula
Old Town Temecula became an outdoor concert hall Saturday as musicians from all over the country gathered for the tenth annual Old Town Temecula Bluegrass Festival.

Professional bands, such as the award-winning Alan Munde Gazette, performed on two stages at the festival. Amateur musicians set up outside stores and along walkways to play banjo, harmonica, guitar and ukulele.

Shelby to be honored at Riverside Legends event
Cobras -- of the automotive breed -- are invading the Inland area for next weekend's tribute to Carroll Shelby.

Shelby, designer of the Ford Cobra and Sports Illustrated driver of the year for 1957, will be in attendance at Legends of Riverside II, Friday through March 28, as will last year's honoree, Dan Gurney.

03/20/2010

Be in a parade: Entries for San Bernardino celebration available
Applications are available to participate in a parade, the city of San Bernardino's 200th anniversary celebration. Entries may include floats, marching bands, horse drawn vehicles, marching groups such as drill teams, drum squads and walking groups.

Corona celebrates reading Saturday at book fair and festival
Corona is holding a celebration of books and reading at the Book-A-Palooza book fair and festival.

The festival is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the Corona Public Library, 650 S. Main St. It includes entertainment, food, games, activities, performances by Corona's Got Talent winners, and demonstrations by the Corona Art Association.

For more information, call 951-736-2381

--Leslie Parrilla

03/19/2010

Vernola Park opens Saturday in Mira Loma
The public is invited to Saturday's grand opening ceremony at 10 a.m. at Vernola Family Park.

Amenities at the 20-acre park include three lighted baseball/softball diamonds, a basketball court, walking trail, two large picnic areas with barbecue pits, and two play areas.

Moreno Valley Arts Commission hosts street fair
Moreno Valley Parks and Community Services and the Moreno Valley Arts Commission will host "Art au Soleil," a street fair showcasing Moreno Valley artists and performers from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Stoneridge Ranch Towne Centre, 27110 Eucalyptus Ave.

Free writers workshop set Saturday in Moreno Valley
Moreno Valley Parks and Community Services and the Moreno Valley Arts Commission will host "The Writers Launch Pad," a free workshop from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the March Field Air Museum (Theater) at 22550 Van Buren Blvd.

03/18/2010

Bluegrass festival to include quality time with musicians
If you need to fine-tune your fiddling, there's a workshop for you as part of the 10th annual Old Town Temecula Bluegrass Festival this weekend.

03/17/2010

San Bernardino Samaritans sending shoes to Haitians
Volunteers will gather at the San Bernardino Samaritan's Feet warehouse on March 26 to prepare a shipment of 10,000 pairs of shoes, socks and medical supplies to be sent to Haiti.

03/15/2010

Redlands Conservancy to showcase work at annual meeting
The Redlands Conservancy's annual general membership meeting on Tuesday will offer a mix of something old and something new.

Guests will hear updates on projects the conservancy has under way, including the restoration of the historic Barton School House and its cut-stone curb and Zanja Trail and Greenway work.

Photo Gallery: Restoration of historic Barton School House

03/14/2010

Kids in the Kitchen event at Riverside Plaza teaches about healthy food
Hundreds of children and their parents smiled as they saw healthy cooking demonstrations, a gymnastics exhibition and games related to food choices Saturday at the Fifth Annual Kids in the Kitchen event at the Riverside Plaza.

Allisha Frederique, a Riverside Poly High junior who served as a volunteer, expressed concern after playing a game about healthy and unhealthy food with two overweight children.

Hundreds walk Old Town streets during the two-day Temecula Rod Run
The concern was on the face of Silverado Canyon resident Pete Wilson Saturday as he spoke with another car enthusiast at the annual Temecula Rod Run.

Wilson and Ron Duff, of Norco, were talking about an overheating problem that Wilson was having with his Ford flathead engine. Duff drove to the Rod Run in his 1940 Ford, which has a beefed-up version of the car's original engine in the red sedan.GALLERY EMBED CODE

Photo Gallery: Temecula Spring Rod Run

- TEASE

Photo Gallery: Temecula Spring Rod Run

Some 5,000 cycling fans turned out for the annual Tour de Murrieta race
Professional and amateur cyclists of all ages raced on the streets of downtown Murrieta Saturday for the fifth-annual Tour de Murrieta.

The race, which had the highest number of participants in the event's history, attracted more than 800 riders including professional cyclists Floyd Landis, of Murrieta, and Rory Sutherland, said the event's technical race director, Ernie Sanchez.

Hair salon event to raise money for Haiti relief
A hair fashion fundraiser for Haiti earthquake relief efforts is set for Friday in Temecula.

The event will feature a show of the latest hair styles. The show is free, but donations are welcome. Refreshments will be served. All proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity's efforts to rebuild Haiti.

The 6:30 p.m. event is at Element Salon, 39584 Winchester Road, Temecula.

Redands Bicycle Classic will have a festival feel this year
For the non-bike-racing public, the Redlands Bicycle Classic may have a whole lot more to offer this year.

As always, there will be the lithe, speeding cyclists to gawk at, and the public races and rides to participate in on Saturday. But the weekend events downtown will have more of a festival feel than in years past, said Scott Welsh, marketing director.

03/12/2010

Temecula games offer fun, fitness for disabled residents
Temecula will host its second annual day of sports and games for the mentally and physically disabled on Saturday.

Cyclists of all levels to compete in the weekend Tour de Murrieta
Cyclists of all ages and skill levels will blaze along the streets of Murrieta on Saturday and Sunday as they compete in the 2010 Tour de Murrieta bike race.

Hair salon event to raise money for Haiti relief
A hair fashion fundraiser for Haiti earthquake relief efforts is set for March 19 in Temecula.

The event will feature a show of the latest hair styles. The show is free, but donations are welcome. Refreshments will be served. All proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity's efforts to rebuild Haiti.

The 6:30 p.m. event is at Element Salon, 39584 Winchester Road, Temecula.

03/11/2010

La Quinta Arts Festival showcases new, returning artists
About 230 artists are showing their work at the 28th annual La Quinta Arts Festival at the La Quinta Civic Center through Sunday.

Visitors viewing the art also can watch acrobatic performances, listen to live music, and savor wine, beer and food.

Self-esteem workshop for young girls is Saturday in Corona
A workshop designed to promote self-esteem for intermediate school age girls is set Saturday.

The day-long Dreams and Decisions event for 300 seventh- and eighth-grade age girls emphasizes goal setting, Internet safety and realizing potential by instilling the belief that dreams do come true with good choices now.

Temescal Canyon High in Lake Elsinore celebrates arts Thursday
The Temescal Canyon High School band, chorus and dance team will perform as part of a celebration of the visual and performing arts at 7 p.m. tonight.

Visual art students will display ceramics, paintings and drawings in the theater lobby at the event. The free event is in the theater at the school, 28755 El Toro Road, Lake Elsinore.

Information: 951-253-7250.

--Michelle L. Klampe

Haiti relief event set for next week in Temecula
A 90-minute Zumba party to benefit Haiti earthquake relief efforts will be at 5 p.m. March 20 in Temecula.

Zumba is a workout using Latin and international dance rhythms. Donations are $10 and proceeds will go to the Haiti Endowment Fund, a nonprofit based in De Luz near Temecula. The event is at the Rancho Sports Center, 28789 Single Oak Drive, Temecula.

03/09/2010

Parking garage will be open for Temecula Rod Run
This weekend's Spring 2010 Temecula Rod Run will provide the first big test of the city's new parking garage in Old Town.

Officials are encouraging Rod Run attendees to park in the free garage, which opened last Monday at Mercedes and Third streets.

03/03/2010

Backyard Bash fundraiser set for May 15 in Riverside
Eight local nonprofits are hosting a fundraiser from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 15 for the 2010 Riverside Backyard Bash Celebration at the Cesar Chavez Center in Bobby Bonds Park. The day will include live entertainment, tastings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a kid zone and community signups for activities. Proceeds will benefit Blindness Support Services, Family Service Association, Habitat for Humanity-Riverside, Inland Agency, Inspire, MFI Recovery, Volunteer Center of Riverside County and the YWCA. Call for presale tickets, costing $25 per person, at 951-328-8284.

03/01/2010

Palm Desert film screenings continue with "Herb & Dorothy"
The Public Art Documentary Film Screening series continues Mar. 18 with the screening of "Herb & Dorothy." The screening will be followed by a conversation with two local art collectors.

Horseback rider, rodeo queen and business woman--19 year old does it all.
For a 19-year-old, Jessica Tourino has already worn a lot of hats -- specifically, cowgirl hats.

She owns her own clothing boutique, The Dirty Cowgirl; competes against the top young equestrians in the world; is a co-founder of the "Ride for the Fight" campaign against breast cancer; and last month was crowned Rodeo Queen for the Frank Bogert Memorial Palms Springs West Fest next month.

02/26/2010

Ten special women to be honored
Ten local women will be honored at the 26th annual "Women of Distinction" luncheon sponsored by the University of Redlands' Town and Gown organization on March 20 in the university's Orton Center.

Photo Gallery: Ten Area Women to be Honored in March

02/25/2010

Loma Linda heart surgeon honored
A well-known heart transplant surgeon has received an award from Stater Bros. Charities.

The San Bernardino-based supermarket company named Dr. Leonard Bailey the recipient of its 2010 Capt. Leland F. Norton Award. The award is named for a native San Bernardino resident who was killed in action during World War II.

02/24/2010

Moreno Valley woman set to hike for charity
Moreno Valley resident Debbi Bond is preparing for a hike this summer at Yosemite National Park, possibly to the summit of Half Dome, 8,837 feet above sea level.

She's participating in a fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, which provides funds to fight blood cancers. A feat of fitness at high altitude is not new to Bond.

Riverside artist finds inspiration in castoffs
Riverside artist Harriet Singer finds art in what many of us might pass up as litter or debris.

"I think rust is beautiful," states Singer. "I like to let the old stuff be old stuff and use it in its original form while creating something new by combining pieces in unique ways."

Photo Gallery: Artist Spotlight: Harriet Singer

Surgeon in Loma Linda honored
A well known heart transplant surgeon has received an award from Stater Bros. Charities.

The San Bernardino-based supermarket company named Dr. Leonard Bailey the recipient of its 2010 Captain Leland F. Norton Award. The award is named for a native San Bernardino resident who was killed in action during World War II.

02/20/2010

Piston power on display in Chino
The last piston-engine combat aircraft, the Douglas AD Skyraider, will be the subject of a lecture hosted by the Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino on March 6.

The lecture begins at 10 a.m. and will be followed by a flight demonstration of a restored Skyraider.

Loma Linda to host New England Youth Ensemble
The New England Youth Ensemble founded in 1970 by its director, Dr. Virginia-Gene Shankel-Rittenhouse, will appear in concert in Loma Linda.

Located on the campus of the Columbia Union College in Takoma Park, Md., its members come from many different cultures and countries, including Russia, Mexico, Australia, Puerto Rico, India, South Africa, and the Philippines as well as the United States.

02/19/2010

Rabbi to give talk on social justice at La Sierra University
riverside

Head here Head here

Rabbi Suzanne Singer of Riverside's Temple Beth El will give a talk on social justice at 4 p.m. Saturday at the La Sierra University Church, 4937 Sierra Vista Ave.

02/18/2010

Eight people will be dancing as stars
Four Riverside men and four Riverside women will participate in Dancing with the Stars- Inland Empire Edition."

It is part of Senior Salute Gala, "Top This!" on Saturday, April 17. The event is a fundraiser by the Janet Goeske Foundation.

The group announced the participants in the event as:

Zee Beard, co-founder, Riverside Personnel Services, Inc.;

02/12/2010

San Bernardino kicks off its birthday celebration
"The Legend of the Arrowhead," an original musical written by Heather McCluskey takes the stage in San Bernardino on Thursday.

Organizers say it is the kickoff of the city of San Bernardino's bicentennial events.

Shopping helps in breast cancer cause
DONATE YOUR CLUTTER FOR A CAUSE: Shop to Stop Breast Cancer on March 15 is Inland Agency's signature "fun-raising"event to support the Pink Ribbon Place, programs for breast health care.

Every dollar raised over the cost of the event goes to pay for mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women, saving lives through early detection.

Two dates to remember:

02/11/2010

Blues Brothers are coming to San Manuel
Some people go to Blues Brothers concerts to see Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi.

But Belushi, in a phone interview, was talking about the rest of the band.

"They're all just big-deal guys. Hot shots," he said.

SB Museum to be open Monday
The San Bernardino County Museum will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Presidents Day Monday,. The museum is usually closed on Mondays.

There will be special activities where families will explore evening star maps, make a star clock, and learn how to chart the phases of the moon. Activities will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and are free with paid museum admission.

Temecula Valley Film Festival seeks entries
The Temecula Valley International Film & Music Festival, planned for September 8-12, is now accepting entries for both film and music. According to officials, the festival is open to US and Foreign films in five categories: Features, Shorts, Documentaries, Animation and Student Films. To be eligible, a film entry must have been completed in 2008, 2009 and 2010. All film entries must be submitted on DVD's to be considered for selection.

02/10/2010

Two SB brothers share transplants
Brothers share a lot.

Some more than others.

Like Gael and David Escarcega of San Bernardino.

They share the same fatal heart condition. And they both have had heart transplants as the result of it.

02/09/2010

Conference Friday focuses on learning disabilities
Friday the Inland Empire Branch of IDA is sponsoring its 31st Annual Conference at the Riverside Marriott Hotel, featuring sessions focusing on skills to adjust and accommodate curriculum so that all students can be successful and motivated.

02/08/2010

Fiber art is on display San Jacinto
Fiber art -- art created from whole cloth -- is taking center stage through Feb. 18 at Mt. San Jacinto College's Art Gallery on the San Jacinto campus.

"Textures: Fiber Arts," an exhibit featuring contemporary art quilts made by Textures, a regional group of fiber artists, highlights the artistic advancements in quilt-making in recent years.

02/07/2010

UCR alumnus Victoria Patterson will be one of the readers for Writers Week
Victoria Patterson says coming back to UC Riverside as a featured reader for the campus' 33rd annual Writers Week is like the end of a cliché story.

"It's a dream come true, as corny as that sounds," said Patterson.

Redlands, Riverside couple to receive honors
A Riverside couple credited with raising millions of dollars and a volunteer from Redlands are slated to be recognized later this month by the Loma Linda University Children's Hospital Foundation.

No mirage, there's an arrowhead in the hills
It may not be the Golden Gate, or the Empire State Building, but one city in the Inland area has a unique symbol, and it's located on a mountainside.

As part of the celebration of its 200th birthday, the Bicentennial Celebration Committee of San Bernardino is touting the city's arrowhead.

02/05/2010

Annual Riverside County Fair and Date Festival is back for 10 days
Date Festival is back for 10 days

It's fair time again in Indio. The annual Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival is back Feb. 12-21 for the 64th year. Each day will feature monster truck shows, motorcycle acts, cooking shows and much more.

Look for Kansas on Feb. 13, Night Ranger on Feb. 15, Rodney Atkins on Feb. 20 and several others.

Yucaipa's Little Theatre holds auditions
Auditions will be held for the recent Broadway hit, "The Wedding Singer," at 7 p.m. Feb 15 at the Yucaipa Little Theatre.

Organizers say the show follows the plot of the 1998 movie that starred Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, centering around the misadventures in love of Robbie Hart, the wedding singer, his friend and love-interest Julia Sullivan, and her boorish fiancée, Glen Guglia.

02/04/2010

Special exhibit of glass on tap in Redlands
For some 20 years, Michigan resident Norma Von Stuck collected bells.

She gathered them up everywhere, whether they were commemorative bells, souvenir items or ones that were holiday-themed. "Her criteria for selection was, if she didn't have one," said her son, Redlands resident Monte Stuck.

Six string works to be performed in two concerts
A string quartet will play six works in two concerts in February and April at UCR's University Theatre.

The works of Béla Bartók will performed by the Calder String Quartet -- Benjamin Jacobson, Andrew Bulbrook (violins), Jonathan Moerschel (viola), and Eric Byers (cello). Tickets are $20 per student for both concerns and $40 per person for both concerts for the general public.

02/03/2010

Artist to appear Sunday in Loma Linda
The Loma Linda Cultural Arts Association will feature an oil painting demonstration Sunday by Brenda D. Johnson, a resident of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Beginning in middle school, Johnson graduated from painting adults and children to portraits of pets. According to her Web site, she now pursues an interest in wildlife.

That interest specifically includes the endangered snow leopard.

02/01/2010

Air museum will honor war dogs on Feb. 13
March Field Air Museum not only pays tribute to the men, women and aircraft that defend the United States, it pays tribute to canines as well.

The annual War Dogs Memorial Celebration takes place at 10 a.m. Feb. 13. It includes demonstrations by Military Working Dogs.

Video: War Dogs exhibit - March ARB

01/28/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, Jan. 29, 2010
Today POMONA, 61st Grand National Roadster Show, noon-9 p.m. today, 10 a.m. Saturday- Sunday, Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Adult $20, Children (6-12) $10, 909-623-3111 or 1-877-763-7469.

saturday BANNING, Gus Jr. Car Show, 2-5 p.m. Gus Jr., 3559 W. Ramsey St., free, 951-849-2287.

'Glee' actress to judge MSJC performance contest
Jennifer Aspen, from the recent Golden Globe-winning Fox series "Glee," will be one of the celebrity judges for the Mt. San Jacinto College Foundation's second annual gala on Feb. 6 at the Wilson Creek Winery and Vineyards in Temecula.

01/19/2010

Concert to celebrate songs through ages
A concert featuring vocal music from the Baroque to the contemporary, sung in five languages, will take place Jan. 23 at Congregation Emanu El in Redlands.

Cantor Jennifer Bern-Vogel of the Redlands synagogue will be accompanied by Cantor Ken Jaffe of Temple Ner Tamid of Downey and organist Jerry Ripley of the Redlands congregation.

01/05/2010

Tickets are on sale for Dickens festival's revamped Pub Night
It's that time of year again when Victorian characters take over Riverside.

The Riverside Dickens Festival, which was created in 1992, will be back entertaining residents Feb. 5-7.

On Feb. 5, the big event to kick off the festival, Pub Night, is going to be bigger and better this year. Pub Night is moving to the ballroom floor of the Riverside Municipal Auditorium and is planning a new show.

01/02/2010

Inland equestrian group survives cold night for ride with the Roses
It had been a long and chilly night with little sleep for an Inland area equestrian group camping with their horses on a closed strip of the Long Beach Freeway in Pasadena while waiting to march in the 2010 Rose Parade.

Photo Gallery: Equestrian group prepares to ride in Rose Parade

01/01/2010

This weekend's Inland car shows, Jan. 1, 2010
saturday HUNTINGTON BEACH, Saturday Sunrise Car Cruisers, 6-9 a.m. every Saturday. Adams Avenue Donuts, 9015 Adams Ave., free, 949-859-8549.

MURRIETA, Drifters Car Club meets every Saturday, 7-8:30 a.m. Richie's Diner on Murrieta Hot Springs and Interstate 215, www.drifters-socal.com

12/24/2009

This weekend's Inland car shows, Dec. 25, 2009
saturday HUNTINGTON BEACH, Saturday Sunrise Car Cruisers, 6-9 a.m. every Saturday. Adams Avenue Donuts, 9015 Adams Ave., free, 949-859-8549.

MURRIETA, Drifters Car Club meets every Saturday, 7-8:30 a.m. Richie's Diner on Murrieta Hot Springs and Highway 215, www.drifters-socal.com

12/17/2009

Robert Wagner to talk about memoir
Morongo Casino Resort and Spa is launching a celebrity authors series with Robert Wagner, who has starred in three TV series and appeared in notable films from the 1953 "Titanic" to "Austin Powers."

Wagner will discuss his 2008 memoir, "Pieces of My Heart" at 2 p.m. Saturday. His daughter Katie Wagner will join him.

'Riverdance' tour stops here
"Riverdance," the show that defined Ireland to the world for more than 10 years, is coming to the California Theatre this weekend in what is billed as a farewell tour.

It began in 1994 as an "interval piece" in the Eurovision Song Contest and went on to sweep the United States and the rest of the globe, said Melissa Convery, a native of Ireland who has performed with the show since 1997.

12/11/2009

Winterfest brings weekends of wonder to Temecula
Old Town Temecula will host a blizzard of holiday activities during Winterfest, a monthlong calendar of events starting Friday night.

Winterfest kicks off at 6 p.m. with a visit from Santa, snow to play in, a holiday train and the Spark of Love Toy Drive.

12/09/2009

Riverside actor plays an outlaw's law-abiding daddy in "Bonnie & Clyde'
Riverside actor Victor Hernandez has been along for the ride with "Bonnie & Clyde," the musical about the 1930s outlaws that is getting its world premiere at La Jolla Playhouse.

The show has been selling out performances but theater representatives say there are some tickets left for the rest of the run.

Nelsons share musical bond
Willie Nelson and family are hitting the road and their appropriately titled tour "On the Road Again" is making a stop at San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino for a night of country music goodness.

Calling from their tour bus, where they were headed to a show in Arizona, Willie's sister Bobbie recalled her and Willie's childhood and the special musical bond they share.

12/04/2009

Metal from rusted pickups blooms in Riverside exhibition
Inland Southern California is a center for car culture, and beginning Saturday, car culture with a capital "C" will be on display at Riverside Art Museum.

Sculptor Michael Kalish harvested rusted and oxidized metal from pickup tailgates and transformed them in delicate-looking rose petals.

"Michael Kalish: Rust and Renaissance" features 28 works.

Video: 'Rust and Renaissance' at the Riverside Art Museum

12/01/2009

Rusted junkyard metal blooms in Riverside exhibition
Inland Southern California is a center for car culture, and beginning Saturday car culture with a capital C will be on display at Riverside Art Museum.

Sculptor Michael Kalish harvested rusted and oxidized metal from pickup tailgates and transformed them in delicate-looking rose petals.

"Michael Kalish: Rust and Renaissance" features 28 works.

Video: 'Rust and Renaissance' at the Riverside Art Museum

11/20/2009

Inland car shows, Nov. 20, 2009
TODAY HEMET, Gus Jr. Car Show, 5-8 p.m. Gus Jr. No. 15, 1531 W. Florida Ave., free.

RIVERSIDE, Farmer Boys Cruise, 6-9 p.m. Awards, food discounts and music by Retro Rick. Farmer Boys, 2901 Iowa Ave. 951-681-5535.

saturday ANAHIEM, Concours Car Show, 9 a.m.-noon. Concours Motorcars Event Center, 3125 E. Coronado St., free, 949-581-6900.

11/06/2009

Cycle ride on Saturday will raise scholarship cash
Mt. San Jacinto College Professor Roy Mason and his wife, Debbie, plan a motorcycle ride Saturday and along the way will raise money for community college student scholarships.

The college and its fundraising nonprofit foundation are hosting an 88-mile motorcycle run.

'New Moon' fans asked to share some blood
"Twilight" fans are being asked to get in a vampire frame of mind and share some blood Nov. 20 at the Redlands Cinema 14 Krikorian Theater.

The theater has teamed up with Redlands Community Hospital and LifeStream blood banks for the "New Moon" blood drive from 2-7 p.m.

"New Moon," the second movie in the "Twilight" series, based on the Stephenie Meyer book series, opens in theaters nationwide Nov. 20.

11/05/2009

Datebook Listings - 11/06
art

Corona

Corona Art Association Holiday Theme Show, "A Few Of My Favorite Things," 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 13 and 20, Corona Heritage Park & Museum, 510 W. Foothill Blvd., 951-898-0687.

Hemet

11/03/2009

Fellowship group to host dancing, chanting event for peace
The Inland Communities Fellowship of Reconciliation will present The Dances of Universal Peace at All Saints Episcopal Church in Riverside Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m.

The circle dancing and chanting event is open to the public, including children ages 6 and older. Admission is $10.

11/05/2009

Piano recital will benefit Redlands parolees
A piano recital of Russian music will be offered as a benefit concert to aid Step By Step, a program that helps parolees returning to Redlands.

The concert is free, with a freewill offering to be collected after the performance.

11/02/2009

San Bernardino County Museum sets Wildlife Art Festival
The San Bernardino County Museum is going to get a little bit wild this month.

The museum's 27th annual Wildlife Art Festival will take place Nov. 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. An opening reception with several participating artists will take place the evening of Nov. 20.

The festival exhibit will include paintings, sculptures, carvings, photographs and prints.

Artists explore post-apocalyptic world, masculine vs. feminine themes
Two artists will display works described as "surrealistic" and "complex" in a show that will be open from Nov. 2 to Dec. 4 at Riverside City College's Quad Gallery.

11/01/2009

Riverside Art Museum holds an 80th birthday bash for its building
The day Dottie Smith took her daughter to dance class was a fateful one.

Photo Gallery: Celebrating 80 years of the Riverside Art Museum

Photo Gallery: Arts & Craft Beer fundraiser at Riverside Art Museum

10/30/2009

'The Crucible' burns a very hot fire
This Halloween, forget the theme parks, latex masks and corny costumes. If you really want a frightening ride on an emotional rollercoaster, see Arthur Miller's "The Crucible" by the Rancho Cucamonga Community Theatre, at Victoria Gardens Cultural Center.

10/31/2009

Artists explore post-apocalyptic world, masculine vs. feminine themes
Two artists will display works described as "surrealistic" and "complex" in a show that will be open from Nov. 2 to Dec. 4 at Riverside City College's Quad Gallery.

10/30/2009

Celebs, poker pros come to Highland for charity tournament
Nearly two dozen celebrities and professional poker players came to Highland on Thursday to participate in the Ante Up for Africa charity tournament.

It was the second time hosts Don Cheadle and pro player Annie Duke brought their event to San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino, and the second time the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has chipped in $500,000 for the cause.

Video: Ante up for Africa

Photo Gallery: Ante up for Africa

10/29/2009

Music Listings - 10/30
Pop Music

Corona

Karaoke Thursdays, 7:30 p.m.; DJ and dancing, 10 p.m.-1 a.m. Fridays-Saturdays, The Alibi Bar and Grill, 2785 Cabot Drive, Suite 110, free, 951-277-1711.

Hemet

10/30/2009

'The Crucible' burns a very hot fire
This Halloween, forget the theme parks, latex masks, and corny costumes. If you really want a frightening ride on an emotional roller-coaster, see Arthur Miller's "The Crucible," by the Rancho Cucamonga Community Theatre, at Victoria Gardens Cultural Center.

10/29/2009

Datebook Listings - 10/30
art

Corona

Kids Night at Paint-A-Memory, 6 p.m. today, Paint-A-Memory, 2690 Tuscany St., Suite 104, $23, 951-278-1652.

Corona Art Association Call For Artists to enter a Holiday Theme Show, "A Few of My Favorite Things," 1-6 p.m. Wednesday, Corona Heritage Park & Museum, 510 W. Foothill Blvd., free, 951-371-2447.

Auto Calendar - 10/30
Saturday

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Saturday Sunrise Car Cruisers, 6-9 a.m. Adams Avenue Donuts, 9015 Adams Ave., free, 949-859-8549.

MURRIETA, Drifters Car Club meets every Saturday, 7-8:30 a.m. All car enthusiasts are welcome. Richie's Diner on Murrieta Hot Springs and Highway 215, www.drifters-socal.com

Casino Listings - 10/30
Las Vegas The Scintas, 8 p.m. today-Sunday, $29; HNLV Band, 10 p.m. today-Saturday, Suncoast Hotel & Casino, 9090 Alta Drive, 702-636-7111.

Escape artist creates a new challenge for himself
Don't put Curtis Lovell II into a straightjacket, no matter how crazy he seems.

He'll just wriggle out of it. Dislocate a few joints and contort his body a few twists and turns, and viola! He's free in just over a minute.

10/28/2009

A phabulous order of Phish
To a tirelessly devoted collection of phans, Phish is simply phabulous.

10/27/2009

Outback to put sizzle in McGraw 2010 tour
Tim McGraw, who will perform at San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino on Nov. 19, has entered into a partnership with Outback Steakhouse to promote his 2010 tour.

The "Southern Voice" tour will bring the country star back to Inland Southern California on June 5 for a concert at San Manuel Amphitheatre in Devore.

The tour will support his recently released CD of the same name.

10/26/2009

'Paranormal Activity' slays 'Saw' with $22 million box office
"Paranormal Activity" has won a weekend battle of fright films over part six of the "Saw" franchise. Paramount's upstart chiller "Paranormal Activity" went into nationwide release and took over the No. 1 spot with $22 million. That compares to just $14.8 million for the debut of "Saw VI," a franchise that has been an annual Halloween fixture since 2004. It was the worst opening ever for Lionsgate's "Saw" series, whose previous low was $18.3 million for the original movie.

10/23/2009

Riverside Art Museum holds an 80th birthday bash for its building
The day Dottie Smith took her daughter to dance class was a fateful one.

In the mid-1960s, Smith helped found the Art Alliance, a fundraising group supporting the arts in Riverside. At the time, the Art Center and School occupied a converted dog pound, leased from the city of Riverside on Brockton Ave., and it was outgrowing the facility, recalled Smith's daughter, Sarah Smith, past president of the Art Alliance.

Photo Gallery: Celebrating 80 years of the Riverside Art Museum

Insects are livin' large in Hemet exhibit
Butterflies' wings, no matter how vivid, are actually tiled with transparent scales. A praying mantis can consume a frog. When a mosquito bites you, it's using a highly specialized, six-piece tongue.

Video: Mechanical bugs invade Hemet museum

Z-cars roaring into Riverside
More than 150 BMW Z series cars will roar into downtown Riverside on Saturday for their biggest car show in Southern California this year.

The So Cal Z Rally, hosted by the BMW Southern California Car Club of America, will line up on Orange Street from University Avenue to Tenth Street.

Show hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Vendors will also be on hand.

Amgen Tour of California bike race to pass through Big Bear Lake
The Amgen Tour of California, the country's largest cycling race, will include a leg in San Bernardino County next year, organizers of the event announced Thursday.

The 750-mile race, scheduled for May 16 through May 23, will include a segment finishing at Big Bear Lake on May 22.

Local officials hailed the selection, saying it will bring national attention to the area and boost the local economy.

10/22/2009

Car shows and cruises: Oct. 23-Nov. 1, 2009
Here are car shows and cruises scheduled in Southern California for Oct. 23-Nov. 1, 2009.

Auto Calendar - 10/23
TODAY

NORCO, Rodeo Burgers, Norco Country Center Cruise Night, 6-9 p.m. Awards, door prizes and music by Retro Rick. Rodeo Burgers, 980 Sixth St., free, 951-371-5833 or www.SoCalCarShowDJs.com

Datebook Listing - 10/23
The Arts

Corona

Corona Art Association: Dominick Frascella Show, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, Art House Gallery, 510 W. Foothill Parkway, Corona Heritage Park Museum, 951-735-3226 or Cathi: 951-371-2447.

Hemet

'Saw VI' hits Inland theaters at midnight Friday
Production designers find a creative use for hot plates as Caroline Cave faces an unpleasant challenge in "Saw VI." These movies don't tend to cost a lot of money to make -- various Internet sources tend to put the production budget at $11 million. They tend, however, to make pots full of money. The five previous films have grossed $342,510,598, according to Box Office Mojo.

Maya Angelou will give sold-out lecture tonight
Author and poet Maya Angelou said her mission in public speaking is to provide some hope and humor. That attitude might explain why her lecture today at UC Riverside is sold out.

Angelou speaks Thursday at UCR
Maya Angelou has been a dancer, a nightclub singer, an actor, a civil-rights activist and an educator.

Tonight, she'll return to one of the roles that her followers enjoy most -- dynamic speaker. She'll speak at the Highlander Union Building at UC Riverside. The event has been sold out for a while and a full house is expected.

10/20/2009

Kennewick man display making local history

Hundreds visit AIDS in Africa exhibit
Tamara Welter has read the grim statistics of AIDS in Africa: tens of millions dead, infected with HIV or orphaned by the epidemic.

On Monday, the Perris woman learned about the impact of AIDS in a personal way, as she journeyed through a replica of an African village at a Riverside church while listening to the story of a 14-year-old girl who lost a father to AIDS and whose mother is sick with the disease.

10/19/2009

The historic Mission Inn begins Festival of Lights preparation
Visitors to Riverside may notice there are already some Christmas decorations mixing with the Halloween decor adorning some downtown locations.

Ornaments, lights, garland and more are going up on and around the Mission Inn in preparation for its 17th annual Festival of Lights celebrations.

Spotlight on influential comedy of Monty Python
It's certainly fitting that "Monty Python's Flying Circus" hit the American consciousness at the same time as the computer age.

Random-access memory powers them both.

In the same way computers connect scattered bits of information, this celebrated sketchfest assembled arbitrary targets and comic styles right from its October 1969 debut on BBC telly.

The historic Mission Inn begins Festival of Lights preparation
Visitors to Riverside may notice there are already some Christmas decorations mixing with the Halloween decor adorning some downtown locations.

Ornaments, lights, garland and more are going up on and around the Mission Inn in preparation for its 17th annual Festival of Lights celebrations.

Photo Gallery: Preparing for the Festival of Lights

10/18/2009

Angelou inspires hope - except for tickets. It's sold out.
Author and poet Maya Angelou said her mission in public speaking is to provide some hope and humor.

That attitude might explain why her lecture Thursday at UC Riverside is sold out.

Denise Stadelbacher, spokeswoman for UC Riverside presents, said the University Theatre is at capacity and there is no "wiggle room" left.

10/16/2009

Inland car events, Oct. 16, 2009
Here are car shows going on in and around Inland Southern California this weekend.

This weekend, it is civil war in Menifee
Last-minute chores are underway at the Wooden Nickel Ranch as Tom Fuhrman and his team of helpers prepare for this weekend's Civil War re-enactment.

10/15/2009

Auto Calendar - 10/16
TODAY ANAHEIM, Rumble and Rock: Motorcycles, Classic Cars and Rock, 5 p.m. Downtown Anaheim, Center Street Promenade and Lemon Street, free, 714-956-3586.

Halloween events - 10/16
RIVERSIDE COUNTY

Lake Elsinore

Lake Elsinore Outlets Spooktacular Halloween, Oct. 31, 5-8 p.m. Lake Elsinore Outlets, 17600 Collier Ave., Lake Elsinore, free, 951-245-4989.

Norco

Ghoulish Girls Beauty Party, Oct. 29, 7 p.m. Definitions Salon and Spa, 2395 Hamner Ave, Norco, free, 1-949-450-2755.

Datebook Listings - 10/16
The Arts

Corona

Corona Art Association: Dominick Frascella Show, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, Art House Gallery, 510 W. Foothill Parkway, Corona Heritage Park Museum, 951-735-3226 or Cathi: 951-371-2447.

Hemet

10/14/2009

Haunted Stadium opens with killer special effects in Lake Elsinore
Lake Elsinore teenagers learn the dangers of texting at Field of Screams Haunted Stadium.

While waiting in line on opening night at The Diamond stadium, people with iPhones out were easy marks for cast members in ghoulish makeup. They would sneak up on their prey and startle them, or else try to read what they were texting.

Photo Gallery: Lake Elsinore's Haunted Stadium 2009

Monsters play ball at Lake Elsinore haunted house
The premise for the Toxic Terrors Haunted Stadium in Lake Elsinore, open through Nov. 2, is enough to scare anyone away.

So the story goes, a meteorite hits The Diamond stadium during a baseball game, burning players and spectators alive and unleashing a radioactive virus that mutates survivors into man-eating monsters and threatens to wipe out the human race.

Video: Preview Lake Elsinore's haunted stadium

Photo Gallery: Toxic Terrors - The Haunted Stadium

Holy superlosers! Superfriends lost episodes should stay lost
COMICS: Repackaged episodes of "Superfriends" on DVD not worth a super-spin

09/22/2009

Rescheduled Riverside Mariachi Festival is Saturday
Beatriz Adriana will sing with Mariachi Monumental de America during the Riverside Mariachi Festival this Saturday.

The fourth annual event was rescheduled from Sept. 12 because some performers had conflicts with that date when some other large mariachi festivals were scheduled, said Ralph Nuñez, Riverside parks and recreation director.

09/02/2009

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