New Blog Site

Hi neighbors!

I've mentioned this in previous blog posts  that I would be launching a new blog redesign and it's finally happened.  I've switched over to WordPress and you can find the new blog here.  We'll have some of the regular blog columns you're already familiar with like "Local Stars," "One of a Kind IE," "Tools of the Trade," and "Fun Guides."  But we're also going to have a lot more so we hope you'll join us at our new blog destination: ieshineon.com/blog.

Thank you for following us this far.  We hope we can continue informing and sharings all things Inland Empire with you.  Let the good times roll!

Best,
Su

My Dinner at Ra Pour

Hi neighbors -

So I'm really excited about this blog post.  I don't think I've ever reviewed a restaurant on this blog but something about Ra Pour makes me want to share my experience with everyone.  To me Ra Pour is more than just the premiere of upscale dining in the Inland Empire.  To me it represents what we as a community could  show the rest of the world what living is like in the IE.

Right now our community is having a tough time with high unemployment and numerous budget cuts. We are in dire need of a solution that will revitalize our communities.  In my opinion, until our local housing and construction industry returns to its former glory, one option I see is entertainment revenue.

Anyone from any walk of life wants to go out and have a good time.  If we can share with the rest of the world and communicate with our own community what the Inland Empire has to offer I think we can draw in revenue from our surrounding communities like San Gabriel Valley, San Diego county and Los Angeles while also keep local spending  within our community therefore contributing to our own revitalization.  We are already witnessing the fact that the state isn't going to contribute to our growth, so it's up to us.

I suppose I am very reflective on all of this because the redesign for this blog is launching soon and then soon after will come the launch of the website - IEShineOn.com.  A website consisting of Inland Empire dining, shopping and attraction listings - a trustworthy go-to for locals and out-of-towners to use when looking for a good time in the IE.  A project I have been working on for almost eight years which has turned into a small business.  So when I went to Ra Pour and then was impressed I thought back to the site I was building.  This restaurant gives me hope in what can be achieved in the Inland Empire and for our community's future.  I can only hope that IEShineOn.com can be a hopeful beacon to others as well.

Wow - seriously side tracked.  Let's talk about Ra Pour.  I have been anticipating the opening of Ra Pour since before its opening.  To my limited knowledge I don't think there's another restaurant quite like it in the Inland Empire.  It's an ultra-chic, modern, sexy restaurant serving delicious gourmet dishes.  Oh, and there's live jazz!  You can say I was already expecting great things.  Here are just a few pictures I took from my dinner.  I hope you enjoy them and thanks for bearing with me.  I tend to babble on when I get reflective...and with lack of sleep.  ;-)

Till next time...

At first entrance you're already set to be impressed

Arrived early enough to catch their dinner staff in their last huddle before
it got busy...and boy, did they get busy!

From front to back: Chicken and waffles (about the moistest chicken and waffles
I've ever had), Middle: Mezze Platter (hummus, tzatziki, mouhamarra, eggplant caviar
and very warm pita bread); Back: Lobster pops with lemongrass-coconut sauce.
DELISH!

Paella - which my friend attempted to eat all on her own.  Ambitious!

Planked Loch Duart Salmon (bacon crust, lentils, roasted roots and
kumquat marmalade)

You may have seen this on our Facebook page but I just had to share again.
This is their chocolate ganache plate and homemade whoopie pies.  Yes, they were
as good as they looked.

Inland Empire Valentine's Fun Guide

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Hi neighbors!

In case you weren't already aware from every retail promotion out there that's been repeatedly bonking you over the head with reminders, Valentine's Day is in a couple weeks.  I'm not much for romance but I enjoy any celebration that encourages love (oh and sweet delicious treats)!  I've gathered a list of local Valentine's events, romantic dinner spots, and deals that will get you more in the mood than a chalky heart candy and a baby in a diaper with a bow and arrow will - we hope ;-)  And for those who could care less about hearts and all that jazz, we've got something for you too!

Take a look and let us know if we should add something to our guide.  We'd love to hear from you in our blog comments, Facebook and Twitter.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

WHAT TO GET...

image c/o of milb.com

1. Let the 66eres mascot Bernie deliver something special to your someone special.  Get a sweetheart bouquet or a special "Bernie Red" rose bouquet with vouchers for an additional date night at Angels Stadium to watch the Halos for $140.  Click the link for more details.




2. Chocolate or candy! - Need a sweet treat for your sweet treat?  So many local places but here are just a few...

• Palm Springs Fudge & Chocolates
• Smiles Sweet Shop (Fontana)
• A-Kline Chocolatier (Claremont)
• Old Town Sweet Shop (Temecula)
• Candy Cupboard (Idyllwild)

image c/o of My Delight Cupcakery

3.  Cupcakes!  The Inland Empire is crazy for cupcakes!  Here are our local stars...

• My Delight Cupcakery
• Casey's Cupcakes
• Suite 106 Cupcakes
• [Desi]gn Cakes & Cupcakes
• Some Crust Bakery

WHAT TO DO...

1. Big event happening over in Riverside is "Love in Riverside." First, you can record your Valentine’s message Feb. 7-11 at the Culver Center of Arts from 12-5 p.m. and on Feb. 14 from 12-6 p.m..  On Feb. 11,  2-6 p.m., and Valentine’s Day, 5-7 p.m, watch the broadcasts outside of the Culver Center of Arts on large LED screens, or check out the "Love in Riverside" YouTube channel.  

2. Humane Society of San Bernardino Valley is holding their second annual "You Stole My Heart - Cutest Pet Photo" Contest.  Voting will be based on how many Facebook Likes each picture receives and will conclude on Feb. 10 at 4 p.m.. The winner will be announced at 9 a.m. on Valentine’s Day.  Vote for your favorite!




3. How about pre-Valentine's Day plans?  On Feb 11, you can check out "A Celebration of Love."  Enjoy the greatest love arias from the Italian operatic repertory performed by the Redlands Symphony.  Enjoy classics from Puccini, Verdi and Tchaikovsky.  Can you hear the love in the air?

4. Live music, candlelit dinner, Romeo & Juliet contest and more!  Enjoy some old-fashioned romance at Riley's Farm's St. Valentine's Dinner & Dance on Feb. 11 or Valentine's Day.

5. Want to do good and celebrate Valentine's?  Head to Cuistot Restaurant in Palm Desert for the Hearts Afire Valentine Dinner benefiting the AIDS Assistance Program.

6. If you're looking for something more casual then check out the weekly film series playing at the Dos Lagos Stadium.  They've got movies that will make the ladies' hearts flutter.

7.  Parents!  You can get your kids in on the fun by heading to the Riverside Art Museum on Feb. 11 for a fun Valentine's craft like a treasure box or Valentine's cards.  Fun and best of all - free!

8. This isn't so much Valentine's related but did you know the Inland Empire has a Foie Gras Club in Redlands?  They're having their inaugural event on Feb. 12 from 2-5 p.m.  This could be a cute and something out-of-the-box date night possibility...


PFFFTT! TO VALENTINE'S...

Image c/o of Roscoes Famous Deli

1. Maybe V-Day isn't quite for you.  You can join some like-minded folks at Roscoes Famous Deli in Chino Hills for their "Love Sucks" party.  (I couldn't help but add this event to the list - the name alone is hilarious and look at the image to the left...HA!)

2. Don't have a date for the big day?  That's ok!  Check out 99.1 KGGI's "Race for love" speed dating event.  Could be fun...


DEALS
1. Getaway to Castle Wood Cottages in Big Bear.  Stay 1 night and get 20% off.  Stay 2 nights or more and get 30% off.  Plus you'll get $20 off a Fireside Massage for Two from Mountain Mobile Massage & Spa.

2. Anyone up for a "Massage-a-Trois?"  International Day Spa in Redlands is promoting their Valentine's "Massage-a-Trois" package where you and your loved one can learn massage techniques from their staff and try on each other.  Ooo-la-la

3. Or keep it simple and head to the movies!  Right now Groupon has a stellar deal!  Two AMC tickets for $12 or four AMC tickets for $24.  Hurry because this deal only lasts a couple days!

ROMANTIC SPOTS
1. Mario's Place (Riverside)

2. Owen's Bistro (Chino)

3. The Sycamore Inn (Rancho Cucamonga)

4. Hip Kitty Jazz & Fondue (Claremont) - live music, drinks and dark corners...enough said. ;-)

5. Caffe Allegro (Upland & La Verne) - candelight, delicious Italian food...O and the bread.  Don't get me started on the bread!

6. Thornton's Winery's Romantic Rendezvous (Temecula)

7. And everyone's favorite, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa (Riverside)

Whew...this has turned out to be a very long guide but I'm sure we're still missing a bunch of great romantic spots, deals and events.  Please share any events, discounts, etc. with us on Facebook and Twitter and we'll add to our list.

Till next time...Happy Valentine's!

#InlandEmpire Super Game Night Guide

Hi neighbors -

So it's the mother of Bowls - Super Bowl Sunday!  Whether you're a die hard fan or just a casual watcher game days are a great excuse to get together with friends, eat some greasy comfort food and yell at the TV.  Here is a list of just a few local spots where you can enjoy the game, some brews and friends.  And if you're not into the game but looking for something else to do we also have something for you in our guide below.

Let us know what you think.  Did we miss a big no-brainer?  Let us know by leaving us a comment, FB post or tweet.

Game on!

1. Yard House (Rancho Cucamonga) - 100-250 beers on tap - whoa!

2. Lake Alice Saloon & Eatery (Riverside) - Voted Best Bar in the I.E. by IE Weekly magazine

3. Espiau's Restaurant & Cantina (Claremont) - Wear your colors and show your spirit here!  Did you see their festive seasonal window display in the picture up top?  The leprechaun is especially adorable.  HA!

4. Events Sports Grill (Riverside) - Considered a locals favorite and a friend's recommention.  Haven't tried it but definitely has all the components of a great sports bar.

5. Upper Deck Sports Lounge (Redlands) - Did you know that Splash Kingdom Waterpark (formerly Pharoah's Adventure Park) has a sports lounge?  Massive sports lounge and no cover.  Ready to check this place out!

Not really into the game?  

image c/o International Day Spa

6. International Day Spa (Redlands) - And for the those who need a little pamper, pay $46 for regularly priced $59 treatments.  Choose from a 30 minute POM facial or a 30 minute Swedish/American massage with an aloe heat cream compress. Special rates are only available on Saturday 2/4/12 and Sunday 2/5/12.  Leave the game fans and get some R&R!  
Doesn't their cozy exterior in the picture here just reach out and give you a hug?  

7. Do good and have fun!  Prevent Child Abuse Riverside County is having a Super Bowl Sunday Game Day fundraiser. “On Feb. 5, more than a dozen former NFL All-Pros team together with Prevent Child Abuse Riverside for the 3rd Annual Super Bowl Sunday game day event, “Legends of the Gridiron.”


8. Totally not into the game?  How about shop and do good?  The Redlands American Cancer Society Discovery Shop has a 25% off entire store sale!  Ooo let me know what you get if you go.  Tag us @IEShineOn - would love to see!


O before I forget, I'm planning a special giveaway in a couple weeks.  You know my affinity towards eating so you can probably guess this giveaway will be food related.  You'll know more next week.  Just keep checking back with us on  FB or tweet.


Till next time...

#InlandEmpire #NationalPieDay Guide

illustration by Rosie Piter exclusively for Acclaim Images

Hi neighbors!

The weekend is drawing to a close but I'm not too sad.  I've been working hard this weekend and I could use a rest from working long nights.  Can't wait for a time where I only work during the days on the ieshineon.com site.  Sigh, one day.  But I digress.

I can't wait for the weekend to end also because I can't wait for #NationalPieDay, January 23rd!  Some super helpful Inland Empire Funsters on Twitter and Facebook - like @dine909, @keatingaround, @ie_foodtrucks and Mary Beth A.  have been giving me some great suggestions on where I should go to celebrate yet another holiday dedicated to baked pastries.  Love it!  So here is a list of some local Inland Empire favorites.  If we've missed any please don't hesitate to steer us in the right direction by leaving a post on FB or tweet us.

Oh and if you partake in Pie Day we'd love to see a pic of your deliciousness!  Post a picture and tag us @IEShineOn.  We'd love to see.

Bon apetit!  Till next time...

PIES PIES PIES
1. Mommie Helen's Bakery (Colton) - Enjoy this behind-the-scenes video of their bakery!

2. Mrs. Redd's Pie (Colton)

3. Corky's Kitchen and Bakery (Rancho Cucamonga, Rialto, Corona)

4. Apple Annie's Restaurant & Bakery (Oak Glen)

5. Law's Oak Glen Coffee Shop  (Oak Glen)

6. Apple's Dumplin's at Parrish Ranch  (Oak Glen)

7. Julian Pie (Julian) - While right outside of the IE they still sell to a lot of places in our neighborhood.  Here's where you can find them.  Plus did you know that Julian Pie is also listed in the Serious Eats List of Best Pie Places in America?

8. Thelma's Restaurant and Bakery (Big Bear)

9. Gerrard's Market (Redlands)

10. Kalura's Trattoria (Palm Springs)

11. Polly's Pies (so many locations, check out their site for more info)

12. Village Grille 50's Diner (Claremont)

13. Big Bell's Sweet Potato Pie (Palmdale) - never heard of this place but was doing some research and they sound amazing!  Here's an awesome video about them.  Honestly, now I can't wait to try!

14. Loma Linda Market (Loma Linda) - Have never been here before but they say it has a bakery.  They're a large, all vegetarian grocery ran by the Loma Linda University.

Ok, I know we have a ton more to list but this is it for now.  If you want to learn more about pies you can go to the American Pie Council's site - yes, there's actually a pie council.  Again, if you think we've missed one please give us a shout on FB and tweet us!

Till next time...nom nom nom....

** EDIT **
We apologize, but we forgot a huge local favorite - Flo's Airport Cafe in Chino!  How could we forget their huge servings and their featured pie of the day?  Forgive us, Flo's!  Thanks for the reminder, @davidallen909!

#IE Lunar New Year Guide

c/o http://www.friscokids.net

Is it in the air or is it just me?  Everyone seems to be hearing the roar of the upcoming Year of the Dragon.  If you're in the IE and you plan on celebrating then you probably plan on heading to the big celebration in Riverside - the Riverside's Asian Pacific Lunar Festival.  But if Riverside is too far you probably don't need to head out that far to stumble upon red, gold, dancing, food and maybe even a dragon.


Take a gander at our list below and let us know if you're heading out to any of these places.  You can tag us in one of your photos (@IEShineOn - o we would love that!).  But if we've missed any spots you think should be on our list then please let us know and forgive our shame.  You can give us a holler on Facebook or Tweet us.

1. Riverside Asian-Pacific Lunar New Year Festival - 1/28, Saturday, parade starts at 10 a.m. and festivities continue through the rest of the day.  Here's a performance guide to help you get around.  Enjoy!  And we've posted a video of last year's sumo demonstration on our FB page created by "socalevents."  Check it out :)

c/o of City of Ontario

2. Chinese New Year Family Discovery Day at the Ontario Museum of History & Art - 1/21, Saturday, 12-4 p.m.

3. San Bernardino 4th Annual Chinese New Year Banquet & Fundraiser - 1/21, Saturday, at the Lotus Garden Restaurant

4. Kung Fu Panda 2 playing at the La Sierra Public Library - 1/22, Sunday at 2pm.  Branch info is here.

5. Happy Hour all night at Wang's in the Desert - 1/23, Mon (doesn't say for sure on their site so just double check by calling them).  Get some friends together and go enjoy some Chinese eats - you know Chinese food is usually family style.  That's more for everyone!

Wang's in the Desert is just one of thousands of Asian restaurants in the Inland Empire.  Who's your favorite?  Share it with us on our Facebook page or Tweet us.

Till next time...Happy Lunar New Year!

MLK Weekend Good Times

Hi neighbors!

It's the first three day weekend of the year and I could use a little break already! I'm looking forward to escaping the fluorescent lights of my office and heading outside. I've compiled a list of local spots where good times could be had by all this three day weekend.

Do you already have plans or have I missed something that's a definite no-brainer must do? I'd love to hear where you'll be headed. Give us a shout on Facebook or Tweet us.  

------------

THREE DAY WEEKEND ITINERARY

OUTDOORS
Let's start the day with a brisk hike at any of our local mountains or a U.S. National Park. All weekend U.S. National Parks will be FREE! (FYI, Joshua Tree National Park is a local favorite).  Or join a local hiking group in Big Bear.  If I'm not feeling like a hike I may try to catch the Saturday morning Garden Walking Club at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens in Claremont.

ACTIVE
Or try something new like belly dancing at Rancho's own Hadia Habib's. If not belly dancing there's always kickboxing in Redlands. First class is FREE!

RELAX
After a work out I'll probably head to any one of our local spas like Glen Ivy Spa in Corona or Ontario's Ciela Mio Day Spa. $29 for a 30 minute massage sounds like a great way to relax.




GETAWAY
Also, it's not too late to just get away entirely and book a place in Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and another one of my favorites - Idyllwild. This place in particular just seems like a fun modern treehouse, no?  Plus it's on the waterfront.

Another one of my favorite things to do during a long weekend - or at any time really - is eat out!  I'm going to check out a few new spots I've been dying to try.  I'll be getting my sweet fix at Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour. Also, I'm especially looking forward to RaPour's jazz brunch on Sunday and I'll probably top if off with some outstanding burgers from Eureka!Burger in Claremont.



Whew...that seems like quite a list but I know I'm leaving out a lot.  I'll just have to cram in as much fun in a 72 hour period as humanly possible.  Have a wonderful three-day, everyone!

Till next time...

Tools of the Trade: 12 Great Gifts to Give Your Website

Hi neighbors -

Hope everyone's been having a great holiday! It's definitely been a busy season. On top of all the great holiday events around town and family activities we're trying to wrap up the site development and launch our blog redesign and officially launch our website IEShineOn.com. I was perusing Mashable.com and came across this useful infographic. It illustrates 12 improvements site designers should consider when optimizing their site. IEShineOn.com hasn't launched yet but these strategies and tips are definitely things I'll be keeping in mind.

Anyone else building a site and planning on optimizing in 2012? Did you find these improvement tips useful? We'd love to hear about it - let us know.

Till next time...



Mintleaf Web Design Studio

'Tis the Season to Lend a Hand

Hi neighbor -

Does this holiday season seem busier to you for some reason? I seem to have more to do every season but in my busy preparations I try to reflect on the year that is about to end and all the opportunities which make me grateful. In this time of reflection I also try to find ways that I can give more back to my community and maybe help those that may need a helping hand.

The list below are some programs that are happening this holiday season where you can help those in need. There's also a list of some local soup kitchens and food banks that are always looking for donations or volunteers. If you want to learn more you can click on any of the links. And I know there are a lot more to add to this list so if you know of one and don't see it on our list please let us know so we can add. You can reach out on Facebook or Tweet us.

Happy season of giving! And till next time...

1. 2011 Riverside County Food Drive: Take a Bite Out of Hunger – Drop off food donations now through the end of December.

2. Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County (CAPSBC) Food Bank/Holiday Food basket - They also accept grocery store gift cards!

3. KTLA Season of Sharing - Benefits three food banks including Second Harvest Food Bank Inland Empire. Drop off locations at Jerome’s Furniture in Corona and Murietta and Stater Bros in Grand Terrace.

4. 2011 Care to Share Holiday Program – There are lots of ways to help. You can make a monetary donation, purchase a gift for a child, purchase a gift card and send to St. Martha Catholic Church in Murrieta or sponsor a food box from the Western Eagle Foundation.

8. Western Eagle Foundation (Temecula)

9. Hope Foods Inc. (San Jacinto) - Companies donate over produced products, near expiration date products, discontinued products or they just desire to donate. Supermarket chains donate their surplus and damaged items. Local farmers donate produce before their surplus spoil.

10. FIND Food Bank – (Eastern Riverside County/Southern San Bernardino County) - For the past 27 years FIND has provided much needed food assistance, nutritional education and basic essential items to those in need in Eastern Riverside and Southern San Bernardino.

11. Senior Citizens Service Center (Temecula, Murrieta, Lake Elsinore, Wildomar and surrounding areas)

12. GAP Food Bank – (Rancho Cucamonga)

13. Big Bear Foursquare - Distributes food every Tuesday from noon to 3 p.m.

14. Second Harvest Food Bank – Serving Riverside and San Bernardino counties

Holiday Shows, Pageants and of course..."The Nutcracker"

 

Images courtesy of http://www.brava-arts.org/

Hi neighbor -

Have you been feeling the holiday spirit? It's almost unavoidable now that we're in our second week of December and especially with all the Christmas tree lightings, parades and other festivities that are happening. On top of the lightings and the parades the IE is bustling with holiday shows, pageants and theater productions - like everyone's Christmas favorite "The Nutcracker." We've compiled a list and want to share it with you. We hope you and your family make some time to check them out during this busy season.

If we've missed any, please give us a shout so we can share with all our neighbors. You know where... :) Facebook and Twitter.

Till next time...

Enjoy!

1. Mannheim Steamroller Holiday Concert (San Bernardino) – 12/7, Wednesday

2. "The Nutcracker" performed by California Riverside Ballet (Riverside) - 12/9-11, Fri-Sun. - New York City Ballet principals Janie Taylor and Sebastien Marcovici will perform as Sugar Plum and Cavalier.

3. Mariachi Christmas (San Bernardino) – 12/10, Saturday

4. “The Nutcracker” by BRAVA (Riverside) – 12/17-18, Saturday-Sunday (Landis Performing Arts Center)

5. "The Nutcracker" performed by the Inland Pacific Ballet at Claremont's Bridges Auditorium and Rancho Cucamonga's Lewis Family Playhouse. Celebrating their 18th season! - Now through 12/18

6. Moreno Valley Wind Symphony Seasons Greetings! (Moreno Valley) – 12/8, Thursday

7. “A Christmas Carol” (Rancho Cucamonga) – 12/9-10, Fri-Sat

8. La Sierra University Big Band Concert (Riverside) – 12/10, Saturday – Oh and it's FREE!

9. “A Christmas Carol" (Temecula) – 12/7-10, Wed-Sat

10. “It’s a Wonderful Life — The Radio Drama” (Upland) – now through 12/16 at The Grove. You can get 50% off tickets at Goldstar.com

11. “A Christmas Show of a Lifetime” (Corona)– 12/16-18, Fri-Sun

12. Bob and Bing's Holiday Road Show (Rancho Cucamonga) - 12/18, Sunday, at the Lewis Family Playhouse

13. “A 1950’s Christmas at the Mansion” (Big Bear) – 12/18, Sunday

14. “Home for the Holidays” with Broadway stars Dale Kristien and Bill Hutton (Upland) – 12/18, Sunday. You can get 50% off tickets at Goldstar.com

15. “Holiday Follies 2011” (Fontana) – now through 12/30 – Fontana residents get 25% off the ticket price!

2011 Inland Empire Holiday Gift Guide

Hi neighbor -

The holiday spirit is going strong which also means most people are starting to cross folks off their shopping list. We've compiled our shopping list along with some suggested unique local spots to pick up those hard to find gifts. If you have any folks on your shopping list who fit our categories we hope you'll go off the beaten path and try out our sugestions.

Take a look and let us know, or even better, if you have another suggested local spot we'd love to hear - we'll add them to our list and share with everyone. Keep in mind this is just the beginning of our list. As we lead up to Christmas we're going to continue to add categories and local spots. So if you think of something don't be shy - share with us! You can leave us a comment or give us a shout on Facebook or Twitter.

And let the shopping begin!

1. "Can't go anywhere without their camera"
- Expert photog gifts from the Claremont Photography and Video
- A nifty print from the store at the California Museum of Photography

2. "The cheesiest friend"
- Temecula Cheese Shop - 42072 5th St Temecula
- Cheese Cave (Claremont)
- Gerrard's Market (Redlands)
- Olive Ave. Market (Redlands)

3. "Wine afficionado"
- The Wine Tailor (Rancho Cucamonga)
- Wine Merchants (Claremont)
- San Dimas Wine Shop & Tasting Room (San Dimas)
- Joseph Filippi Winery & Vineyards (Rancho Cucamonga) - 10% discount on mixed cases of 12 bottles or more!
- Chris Kern's Forgotten Grapes (Riverside)

4. "One throw pillow is never enough"
- Distinctive Home PS (Palm Springs)
- Gardener's Cottage (Riverside)

5. "Natural medicine shaman"
- Yeh Center of Nature Medicine (Upland) - I've never been but from the services and products they're offering make me curious.

Keep an eye out for additions to our list. Till next time...

So many holiday parades, so little time...

*2010 Pomona Christmas Parade...to help us get into the holiday spirit*

Hi neighbor -

Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday have gone by and you can't avoid the holiday spirit in the air. We have so many local holiday parades filled with Christmas lights, snow, Santa, some freebies and even tamales! A lot of the parades fall on Saturday, 12/3, but maybe if you plan it right you and your family can try to catch more than one. =D Regardless of where you are in the IE, be reassured that you'll get a chance to catch a Christmas parade somewhere.

We hope you enjoy our list below and if we've missed any parades in your neck of the woods please give us a shout in our comments, on our Facebook or tweet us. We'd love to hear.

Enjoy!

1. http://www.ci.claremont.ca.us/update.cfm?resID=247877 (Claremont) - Festivities start on 12/2, Friday and continue through Saturday.

2. Santa’s Electric Light Parade (Temecula) – 12/3, Saturday at 7 p.m.

3. 35th Annual Christmas Parade and Craft Faire (Upland) – 12/3, Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

4. Twelve Days of Christmas Parade and Christmas in the Park (Hemet) – 12/3, Saturday, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

5. 20th Annual Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade (Palm Springs) – 12/3, Saturday at 5:45 p.m.

6. Redlands Christmas Parade (Redlands)– 12/3, Saturday at 6 p.m.

7. 34th Annual Christmas Parade (San Bernardino)– 12/3, Saturday, 11 a.m.

8. 20th Annual Indio International Tamale Festival Parade (Indio) – 12/3, Saturday, 10 a.m.

9. "Lights on the Lake" Holiday Boat Parade (Perris) – 12/10, Saturday, 5-9 p.m.

10. Fontana Christmas Parade (Fontana) – 12/10, Saturday, at 10 a.m. and don't miss Fontana's Ski Lodge at Veterans Park from 11-5 p.m.

11. Miracle on Second St. Christmas Parade (Pomona) - 12/10, Saturday, 10-2 p.m.

!!UPDATES!!
We found so many more parades and festivities we knew we had to add to our list and share with everyone. Check 'em out!

1. 7th Annual Parade of Lights and Winter Festival (Norco) – 12/3, Saturday, starting at 5 p.m.

2. Winter Wonderland Parade (Ontario)– 12/4, Sunday, starting 1 p.m.

3. "Through the Eyes of Child" Holiday Parade (Coachella) – 12/9, Friday, starting at 6 p.m.

4. Fontana Christmas Parade (Fontana) – 12/10, Saturday, 11-5 p.m.

Small Business Saturday

Hi neighbors -

Are you ready for the upcoming Thanksgiving festivities? I can't wait to get some good eats and fun times in with the family. I can already smell the pumpkin pie wafting through the air. But another thing I enjoy about Thanksgiving are all the great sales - Black Friday, Cyber Monday and most importantly Small Business Saturday.

A great promotion for Small Business Saturday is the 3/50 Project. We're all about supporting our local business community here at IEShineOn.com and this promotion is right up our alley. It's popular tagline is "Pick 3. Spend 50. Save your local economy," which encourages locals to pick three independently owned businesses and spend $50 each month because for every $100 spent locally $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. This type of effort empowers our local community especially during these rough economic times. The website provides more information and resources to help encourage local spending. If you haven't checked it out before I highly recommend it and share with your neighbor. www.the350project.net

I'll definitely be participating in Small Business Saturday in our local community so expect some FB updates and tweets. How about you? Will you be hitting the local independent stores for your holiday shopping? You can check the 3/50 Project site to see if your favorite local store is listed. Happy shopping!

Till next time, have a fun and safe Thanksgiving holiday!

Local Tree Lighting Spots

Image c/o luxurytraveladvisor.com

Hi neighbors!

Did you get the chance to check out the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting at Victoria Gardens (Rancho Cucamonga) yesterday? It's not even Thanksgiving yet but it seems like retail stores are starting the holiday promotions  right after Halloween.  No complaints here. I loooove the holidays - all those warm and fuzzy feelings highlighted by presents. Yes, please!   Just to get us into the spirit here is a list of some local tree lighting events.

If you and your family catch any of the events please let us know. You can give us a shout on Facebook or Twitter. You could even tag us in your photo. We would love that! If there's a local tree lighting event that's a part of your family tradition, please let us know.

Till next time...

1. RIVERSIDE MISSION INN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS (Riverside) 11/25 - Great tradition :)

2. BENEDICT CASTLE LIGHTING (Riverside) 11/27 - Castle and lights?! I'm there!

3. PROMENADE TEMECULA TREE LIGHTING (Temecula) 11/12 - Already past but professionally designed trees will be on display and available to win through an opportunity drawing on Wednesday, December 14, 2011.

4. DOS LAGOS TREE LIGHTING/SANTA ARRIVAL 11/19 (Corona) - Oooo Live Reindeer - neat!

5. JINGLES AND JAZZ AT THE CROSSINGS AT CORONA TREE LIGHTING 11/19 (Corona)

6. VICTORIA GARDENS SANTA'S ARRIVAL & TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY 11/18 (Rancho Cucamonga) - Bring the kids and meet Santa!

7. BANNING PHINEAS FESTIVAL 12/3 (Banning) - Lots to do including a chili cook off!

8. And if you love visiting decked out homes here's a useful tool to track them down. I hear there's a street in Chino between Lemon Place and Fillmore Street (near the intersection of Walnut and San Antonio) that is amazing! Enjoy! http://find.mapmuse.com/interest/xmas-displays

Inland Empire Remembers Our Veterans

Hi neighbors -

Veteran's Day is this weekend and I felt like paying tribute to the men and women who give so much of themselves for our country by dedicating this blog post to them. I try to stay away from political and controversial topics but providing support for our Veterans is something very personal to me. So, I've listed some upcoming local events where you can pay your tribute and have some fun!

We'll try to add to the list as the week goes along but if you see something please give us a shout! You know where - FB and TWITTER :)


1. UCR VETERANS SERVICES ANNUAL VETERAN’S DAY LUNCHEON (Riverside)

2. 15TH ANNUAL PALM SPRINGS VETERANS DAY PARADE (Palm Springs)

3. VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION @ THE MEMORIAL ROSE GARDEN (Fontana)

4. HOWIE MANDELL AND 82ND AIRBORNE CHORUS (Riverside)

5. VETERANS DAY JAZZ CONCERT (Palm Desert)

6. DOWNTOWN RIVERSIDE'S VETERAN'S DAY TRIBUTE (Riverside)

7. MORENO VALLEY SUNSET CEREMONY (Moreno Valley)

Here are some other ways you can pay tribute to Veterans.

1. BACK OUR TROOPS PULL UP COMPETITION (UC Riverside)

2. INLAND EMPIRE VETERANS STAND DOWN

Till next time...

Local Halloween Day Happenings

Hi neighbors -

Halloween is just around the corner. My costume is prepared, candy bowl is ready and jack-o-lantern is frightening little kids as we speak. But for those that aren't staying home for the trick or treating crowd here is a list of local Halloween events you can check out. If you end up going out to any of the events we'd love to hear about it. Give us a shout on our FB or tweet us.

Have a happy and safe Halloween!

1. The Sycamore Inn presents Halloween Murder Mystery Dinner (Rancho Cucamonga)

2. Nightmare at the Fairplex (Pomona)

3. Field of Screams (Lake Elsinore)

4. Scandia's 18th Annual Haunted House (Ontario)

5. Human Roast House (Riverside)

6. Big Horse Corn Maze (Temecula)

7. Live Oak Pumpkin Patch (Yucaipa)

8. Scary-A-Faire Celebration (Upland)

9. Halloween Trick or Treating & Haunted Yards (Riverside)

10. Coffin Creek (Corona)

Boo!

Our first IEShineOn "Local Stars"

Hi neighbors -

My site is once again delayed from my previous ideal launch date, which is frustrating. And in these moments of frustration and doubt I have to remind myself of why I'm creating this site and its original inspiration. A big reason why I decided to create a destination site for the Inland Empire is that this area is my roots. I was raised here and my parents still reside and do business here.

They have owned their business for over 27 years and it's these type of long time  family run businesses that exist in the IE that give our community character. So for our next blog series I would like to focus on local businesses that have been family run or owned for over 20 years and we're going to call these folks our "Local Stars." These are the places that make this area unique, and like I've been saying, one of a kind.

I'm not going to reveal the location of my parents' business but let's just say they have been standing over this grill and greeting generations of customers off Rte. 66 for over 27 years. They have seen young families grow up and bring their kids to the same place of business where they ate as a child. It is their continued drive and their support of all my dreams that I dedicate my first Local Stars blog post to them.

Here's a picture of the proud couple on their first days of starting out their new life and business.  The picture is from a distance but you can tell they're smiling and feel the optimism through the photo. I hope through whatever Life throws at me that I tackle it head on with as much gusto!

I feel I have a legitimate stake in the continued growth of this community and it's my responsibility to do what I can to give back to the area that gave me the foundation to go for my dreams. If you can understand how I feel and would like to nominate a business to be spotlighted in our "Local Stars" blog series we'd love to hear from you. Give us a shout on FB or tweet us!

Till next time...

Hap-Hap-Happy Hour - 10 Local Watering Holes

Hi neighbors -

Do you ever just feel the need to kick back with a cold brew or a nice glass of something room temperatured or chilled after work? We've been tightening our belts lately so we're always excited about affordable happy hour specials so we hope we found us some good options. Let us know what you think by giving us a shout on FB or tweet us. If we missed one of your favs please don't hesitate to let us know :)

1. CAFE SEVILLA (Riverside) - Daily HH 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tapas starting at $4 or get a $20 pitcher of sangria, mojito, margarita. Whoa - $20 pitcher of margarita? May not make it to work the next day...

2. JOE’S BAR & GRILL (Riverside) - Joe's is a local hang out where you can play pool, watch the game, karaoke and imbibe daily drinks specials starting at $3 draft beers and $3.75 well drinks. Did w mention 95 cent taco Tuesday?!

3. GYU-KAKU (Rancho Cucamonga) - HH specials all day on Mondays, Tue-Thu 12-6:30 p.m. and 8:30-last call, Fri-Sat 12-6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.-last call. All appetizers are up to 50% off and bbq items start at $2.95. Sushi rolls at $4.95...whoa.

4. THE SALTED PIG (Riverside) - $3 well drinks and half off snacks at this downtown gastropub. Filthy Fries...try it...enough said ;)

5. ESPIAUS'S RESTAURANTE Y CANTINA (Claremont) - 99 cent Taco Tuesday with ALL NIGHT HAPPY HOUR? Happy Hour also Mon-Thu 3-6 p.m.

6. COPLEY'S ON PALM CANYON (Palm Springs) - Discover a little bit of old Hollywood at Cary Grant's former estate now turned award winning restaurant. Sun-Thu 5:30-7 pm with $5 well drinks.

7. THE LOUNGE CORONA (Corona) - They have HH and a great list of all day specials. Check 'em out! 4-7 p.m. $2.50 domestic beers!

8. THE PRESS (Claremont) - HH daily 3-6 p.m. except Thursday 3 p.m. - 12 a.m. If you've never been, this is a great locals hangout - always packed to the rim full of people.

9. OMAKASE (Rancho Cucamonga & Fontana) - HH Mon-Fri 3-6 pm, Sat 8-close (drinks only). Whoa...$1 Budlight, $11 pitchers, $4 sake bombs, 50% off some apps and $1 off some sushi rolls.

10. MI RANCHITO - HH Mon-Fri 2-6pm They also have a lot of affordable daily specials. Here are a couple examples: Tuesday - 99 cent Taco Tuesday and $1.95 draft beers. Also $2 Bloody Mary's and mimosas on Sunday along with half off apps. Oh, and $1.99 margaritas all day on Monday.

That's our list, friends. And not to put a damper on the party but always remember to drive responsibly. If you need one, please call a local cab company like AA Inland Empire Taxicab 1-888-333-TAXI, k?

Till next time...

p.s. It was National Boss's Day yesterday. Cheers to the bosses who make work tolerable. =D

Tools of the Trade: The 8 Habits of Highly Productive People

Hi friends -

So, I'm on this big kick about productivity lately, especially when it comes to tools of my trade. Time is of the essence and I'm on the look out for anything that increases my productivity and keeps my brain sharp. I stumbled upon this blog post from Celestine Chua called The Personal Excellence Blog. She's a productivity guru and her blog is super insightful. I've made a summary of the eight habits she describes in her article, but I highly recommend that you read the post to get the full effect.

The 8 Habits of Highly Productive People
1. Focus on the high value tasks
2. Allocate breaks strategically
3. Remove productivity pitstops (i.e. distractions)
4. Tap into your inspiration
5. Unplug! (Create barriers to entry)
6. Optimize time pockets
7. Set timelines
8. Automate everything possible

Do you follow any of these habits or have any additional recommendations? We'd love to hear! Give us give us a shout on FB or tweet us!

Till next time....

7 Local Spots for Halloween Costume Shopping

Hi neighbors -

Does everyone have their Halloween costume ready? I'm headed out this weekend to put the finishing touches on mine. I've decided to be Sue Sylvester from the show "Glee." I'm a fan of her can-do attitude (can-do or "I will crush you" attitude more like haha). What are you going to be? Are you still looking to put something together?

Check out our list of local costume shops and antique stores below. Maybe you'll find the last embellishment to top off the costume or find inspiration for the perfect costume this year. We'd love to see what you get. Snap a pix and post on our wall or give us a shout on FB or tweet us and let us know if you head to any of the shops below.

Enjoy!

1. Koyal Wholesale - largest Halloween costume shop in the Inland Empire! Locations all around the IE.

2. Wizard's Party House (Moreno Valley) - over 20,000 sq ft. of party supplies

3. Halloween Hub (Riverside)

4. Geraldine's Costume & Props (Cathedral City)

5. Hobo Vintage (Redlands) - Voted 2011 Best Vintage Store by IE Hotlist & 2010's Best Thrift Store by the IEWeekly

6. Treasures and Junk Antique Mart (Ontario) - 17,000-square foot antique mall featuring 80 individual spaces with multiple dealers

7. Pomona's Antique Row - check out the directory of for a list of spots (then stop by Joey's BBQ...mmmm...bbq...)