Riverside Tamale Festival Celebrates 13 Years and a Historic Milestone for the Trujillo Adobe

Riverside Tamale Festival Celebrates 13 Years and a Historic Milestone for the Trujillo Adobe

Apr 16, 2026 | Entertainment, Events

Riverside Tamale Festival Celebrates 13 Years and a Historic Milestone for the Trujillo Adobe

A Riverside tradition rooted in culture, history, and community returns this spring with renewed significance. The 13th Annual Riverside Tamale Festival will take place on April 18, 2026, at White Park, bringing together families, community leaders, and visitors for a full day of celebration from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Presented by the Spanish Town Heritage Foundation, this year’s festival arrives at a defining moment. The historic Trujillo Adobe was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2025 an achievement that elevates both the site and the festival’s purpose.

A Celebration with Purpose

What began as a local gathering to share the story of the Trujillo Adobe has grown into the foundation’s primary fundraiser and one of the Inland Empire’s most anticipated cultural events.

Now under the stewardship of Riverside County Regional Park and Open-Space District, the Adobe is part of a long-term vision that includes a future cultural and educational center. With more than $10.4 million in state funding secured, the next phase focuses on storytelling ensuring visitors understand the site’s historical importance.

This year, organizers are working toward a $50,000 fundraising goal to install educational panels at the future park, which is expected to be completed in 2028.

“This is the first Tamale Festival since the Trujillo Adobe was recognized on the National Register,” said Nancy Melendez. “It’s a meaningful milestone for our organization and for the community.”

Culture, Music, and Community—Todos Juntos

The 2026 theme, “Todos Juntos” (All Together), reflects both the spirit of the event and the broader cultural moment bringing people together through shared history, food, and experience.

Headlining this year’s festival is Ozomatli, the Los Angeles-based band known for blending Latin, hip-hop, funk, reggae, and global sounds. Celebrating over 30 years of music, their performance anchors a lineup designed to reflect the richness and rhythm of the community.

Additional highlights include:

  • Traditional folklórico dance performances
  • Mariachi music throughout the day
  • Live Lucha Libre wrestling exhibitions
  • Interactive cultural and family programming

Festival grounds will be organized to mirror the vision of the future Trujillo Adobe park:

  • La Placita – A central food and dining experience featuring more than 20 vendors serving tamales and regional cuisine
  • La Escuela Kids Zone – Storytelling, crafts, and educational activities for families
  • La Cantina – A beer garden and social gathering space
  • Artisan booths, community organizations, and retail vendors
  • A VIP lounge hosting the Best Tamale competition

Honoring Riverside’s Roots

The Riverside Tamale Festival is more than a food and music event it is a tribute to the region’s origins.

In 1842, Lorenzo Trujillo and ten pioneer families established the settlements of La Placita and Agua Mansa along the Santa Ana River. Their influence continues to shape Riverside and the broader Inland Empire today.

Event organizers emphasize that preserving this history is essential—not just for reflection, but for identity and connection.

“The Trujillo Adobe reminds us that our roots are deep, our culture is enduring, and our collective presence is powerful,” said Larissa Diaz-Hahn. “When we come together, we’re not just celebrating history we’re affirming that we belong here, and we always have.”

Join the Celebration

The 13th Annual Riverside Tamale Festival takes place:

  • Date: April 18, 2026
  • Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • Location: White Park

Tickets are available through Eventbrite.

About the Spanish Town Heritage Foundation

The Spanish Town Heritage Foundation is dedicated to preserving and activating the historic Trujillo Adobe and the legacy of Riverside’s earliest settlements, including La Placita and Agua Mansa. Through cultural programming, education, and community events, the organization ensures that these stories remain accessible for future generations.

PHOTOS from the 2013 Riverside Tamale Festival

2013 Riverside Tamale Festival for for the Trujillo Adobe

Seattle: Navigating the Path to Homeownership in Today’s Market

Seattle: Navigating the Path to Homeownership in Today’s Market

Apr 16, 2026 | Events, Home Tu Casa

by Richard Sandoval, for HL and Home, Tu Casa

A Ready, Set, Home – Home buyer Orientation brings together trusted guidance, local market insight, and resources designed to inform and empower.

In today’s evolving housing landscape, the journey toward homeownership begins with access to clear, reliable information.

In markets like Seattle where growth, demand, and affordability continue to shape the conversation understanding the path forward requires more than interest. It requires preparation, perspective, and trusted guidance.

As part of that effort, an upcoming Ready, Set, Home – Homebuyer Orientation, presented as a free, one-hour virtual workshop, will bring together professionals committed to helping prospective homebuyers better understand the essential steps involved in purchasing a home.

Hosted by Richard Sandoval of HL | Culture and Influence, the session will be presented by Credit.org in collaboration with City National Bank, reflecting a shared commitment to expanding access to homeownership through education and community-focused outreach.

Designed as an introductory workshop, the session focused on helping participants:

  • Understand the key steps in the homebuying process
  • Clarify common mortgage terms and lending concepts
  • Build a foundation for making informed financial decisions

The conversation will feature insights from a group of professionals representing both financial and local market perspectives.

Participants will hear from Claudio Espino, a HUD-certified counselor with Credit.org, who will provide guidance on financial readiness and the importance of preparation in the homebuying journey.

From a local market perspective, Marissa Beach, a Realtor® with Keller Williams Realty, will share insight into the Seattle housing landscape, offering participants a clearer understanding of current market conditions and what to expect when entering the market.

Representing the lending perspective, Saul Espinoza, Community Lending Mortgage Banker with City National Bank, will help demystify mortgage concepts and provide clarity around financing options available to prospective buyers.

Seattle, like many major metropolitan areas, presents both opportunity and challenge. Rising home values, evolving lending conditions, and increased demand continue to shape how individuals approach the homebuying process. For many, particularly first-time buyers, the experience can feel complex but not unattainable.

A key theme throughout the session will be the importance of preparation.

Understanding credit, exploring available resources, and asking the right questions early in the process will be emphasized as critical steps toward building confidence and making informed decisions.

The conversation will also highlight the value of local expertise connecting broader financial education with real-world market conditions in the Seattle area.

Those interested in attending the April 23, 2026 session are encouraged to register in advance: https://bit.ly/4cOdOcv

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HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAHREP® Orange County Chapter

HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAHREP® Orange County Chapter

Apr 15, 2026 | Milestone

HL | Milestone Series – Honors NAHREP® Orange County Chapter

Advocacy | Homeownership | Economic Empowerment

The HL | Milestone Series recognizes organizations whose leadership, innovation, and commitment to community continue to shape culture, business, and influence across industries.

The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) Orange County Chapter stands as one of the region’s most influential voices advancing sustainable Hispanic homeownership and economic growth through real estate.

NAHREP Orange County Chapter  will be recognized during the HL | Milestone Series — Orange County, taking place on April 30, 2026. This invitation-only reception brings together a curated audience of executives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and recognition.

👉 Event details: https://bit.ly/4qEref1

As a local chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, NAHREP Orange County is part of a nationally recognized network committed to increasing Latino homeownership by empowering real estate professionals, advocating for policy change, and fostering generational wealth-building opportunities.

In Orange County one of the most competitive and dynamic housing markets in the country—the chapter has become a trusted connector between industry professionals, financial institutions, and the community. Through educational programming, policy engagement, and strategic partnerships, NAHREP OC equips its members with the tools, insights, and relationships needed to lead in today’s evolving real estate landscape.

Mission & Impact

NAHREP’s mission is clear and focused: to advance sustainable Hispanic homeownership.

At the local level, the Orange County Chapter brings this mission to life by:

  • Creating pathways to homeownership through education and outreach
  • Supporting real estate professionals with leadership development and market intelligence
  • Advocating for policies that expand access to housing and lending opportunities
  • Promoting financial literacy and long-term wealth strategies within the community

Their work is not only about transactions—it is about transformation. By elevating the role of Latino professionals in real estate and lending, NAHREP OC contributes to broader economic mobility and community stability.

Leadership & Board Influence

What distinguishes NAHREP Orange County is the strength and diversity of its leadership.

The chapter’s board is composed of respected professionals across real estate, mortgage lending, banking, and housing advocacy. These leaders bring:

  • Market Expertise – Active professionals navigating today’s housing and lending environment
  • Cultural Understanding – A deep connection to the communities they serve
  • Strategic Vision – The ability to align local efforts with national housing trends and policy priorities
  • Collaborative Leadership – Partnerships with lenders, developers, nonprofits, and civic leaders

This collective expertise allows the organization to operate at a high level—bridging industry and community while delivering meaningful, measurable impact.

Why We Are Honoring NAHREP® Orange County Chapter

The HL | Milestone Series recognizes organizations that are shaping business, community, and culture through leadership and influence.

NAHREP Orange County Chapter is being honored for:

  • Championing homeownership as a pathway to generational wealth
  • Elevating Latino professionals within the real estate and financial sectors
  • Advancing conversations around housing access, lending, and economic opportunity
  • Serving as a connector between community needs and industry solutions

At a time when housing affordability and access remain critical issues, NAHREP OC’s work is both timely and essential. Their leadership reflects a long-term commitment to strengthening families, building wealth, and creating opportunity across Orange County and beyond.

The HL | Milestone Series is a national platform designed to celebrate leadership across business, community, education, and innovation.

The 2026 HL | Milestone Series is made possible through the support of Wells Fargo, the series’ funding partner, whose commitment to community engagement and financial empowerment helps bring these important conversations and recognitions to life.

On the Menu: Burattino and the Power of Curiosity

On the Menu: Burattino and the Power of Curiosity

Apr 14, 2026 | On the Menu

by Richard Sandoval, for HL and Inland Valley Living

A Worth-the-Drive Pizza Experience in Carson, California

Curiosity is a powerful thing. Sometimes it shows up quietly through a post, a photo, or a recommendation that stays with you longer than expected. And sometimes, it leads you a few miles out of your way to finally see if something lives up to the moment you’ve been imagining.

For me, that place was Burattino Brick Oven Pizza.

Living in the Inland Valley, you get used to your go-to spots. Convenience often wins. But every now and then, something captures your attention and stays with you. I first came across Burattino online. There wasn’t a location nearby, just a steady presence that kept showing up consistently, visually, and convincingly.

That’s how effective visibility works. It doesn’t just inform you it stays with you until one day, you act on it.

The Decision to Go

Last Saturday, after a full morning of filming with our colleagues at the Mexican American Bar Foundation for their upcoming gala, we had a choice head back home or try something new.

We chose the experience.

About 10 miles from where we were, we put the address into the GPS and made our way to Carson. What could have been a routine end to the day turned into something more intentional a decision to follow through on a year-long curiosity.

The Moment of Arrival

When we arrived, I’ll admit, I felt a bit overwhelmed.

Not because of the space, but because I had built it up in my mind over time. Now that we were there, I found myself standing at the counter, unsure of what to order, with a line forming behind us.

So I stepped aside, took a breath, and did what I always do when trying a new place:

  • What do you recommend?
  • What’s your go-to?
  • What should we try first?

Service That Sets the Tone

The response made all the difference.

The team behind the counter greeted us with a genuine smile and walked us through the menu with patience and clarity. There was no rush just a willingness to help us make the right choice.

We started with their top-selling pepperoni pizza but quickly shifted direction and landed on their Meat Lover’s pizza.

Then came the easiest decision of the day: medium or extra large. Extra large. Some experiences are meant to be shared and taken home.

More Than a Meal

One thing I don’t take for granted is the opportunity to work alongside my sons.

After a day of production, we make it a point to sit down, reset, and enjoy something good together. This time, we stepped outside our routine and created something new.

  • Yes, the pizza delivered.
  • Yes, it lived up to expectations.

But more importantly, it created space for conversation, reflection, and connection.

The Bigger Picture

From Los Angeles International Airport to the Temecula Valley, the drive can easily stretch to a couple of hours with traffic.

Was it worth it? Absolutely. Because this wasn’t just about pizza.

It was about curiosity, consistency, and the simple decision to try something different. It was a reminder that sometimes the places that stay on your mind the longest are worth the extra effort to experience firsthand.

Final Thought

When something captures your attention long enough, there’s usually a reason.

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is follow that curiosity and see where it leads.

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HL | Milestone – Silicon Valley

HL | Milestone – Silicon Valley

Apr 12, 2026 | Events, Milestone

A curated reception, leadership forum, and awards experience designed to recognize those shaping business, community, and culture.

Event Overview

Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Blanco Urban Venue – 12 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110

Event Schedule 

5:00 PM
Registration • Networking Reception • Hosted Refreshments

5:30 PM
Welcome Remarks

5:45 PM
Leadership Forum
A conversation featuring industry leaders discussing leadership, influence, innovation, and community impact.

6:30 PM
Milestone Recognition Ceremony
Honoring individuals and organizations whose leadership and accomplishments have helped shape Silicon Valley and beyond.

Partial Listing of the evening honorees (click on the names for their profiles) 

7:00 PM
Networking Reception

7:30 PM
Program Concludes

Attire: Business Casual

* Program subject to change without notice

A Curated Reception

Each Milestone Series event begins with a private, curated reception that brings together a select group of professionals, decision-makers, and community leaders.

This is a space designed for intentional connection where conversations are meaningful, relationships are strengthened, and the people in the room reflect a shared commitment to leadership and progress.

Luis D. Alvarado is Co-Head of Global Fixed Income Strategy at Wells Fargo where he provides analysis and insights on economic trends, capital markets, and investment strategy. He works with clients and advisors to help interpret market developments and their impact on investment decision-making.

A respected voice on fixed income markets and the economy, Luis frequently shares perspectives on the forces shaping financial markets and the opportunities and challenges facing investors, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.

At the HL | Milestone Series — Silicon Valley, Luis will present insights on the economic environment and the trends influencing wealth creation, capital allocation, and strategic decision-making in a rapidly changing world.

LEADERSHIP DISCUSSION - The Future of Wealth: Innovation, Capital, and Decision Making in a Changing Economy

At the core of the experience is a leadership forum focused on timely conversations shaping today’s business and community landscape.

Discussions may include:

  • Generational wealth and economic opportunity
  • Real estate and housing market insights
  • Business leadership and growth strategies
  • Community influence and long-term impact
  • Regional trends unique to each host market

These conversations are designed to provide perspective, clarity, and insight connecting ideas with real world experience.

Moderator | Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Gloria Mirazo Gregor is a Senior Market Manager with Wells Fargo Home Lending, overseeing one of the company’s highest-performing regions. She leads a team of mortgage professionals serving communities throughout Northern California and is recognized for her commitment to leadership development, customer service, and community engagement. With extensive experience in financial services and housing finance, Gloria brings a practical and forward-looking perspective on wealth creation, homeownership, and economic opportunity. Her leadership has helped countless families and professionals navigate important financial decisions while building stronger communities.

Panelist | Jennifer Garcia

Jennifer Garcia is a dynamic leader with exceptional vision and business acumen, serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Latino Business Action Network (LBAN). LBAN is a Silicon Valley-based nonprofit and partner of Stanford University with a bold mission of advancing Latino entrepreneurship in the United States. Jennifer has played a pivotal role in driving this mission forward and delivering meaningful impact to Latino business owners nationwide.

LBAN is the largest and most sophisticated network of Latino and Latina business owners. Under her leadership, LBAN facilitates the Business Scaling Program and the Startup Accelerator at Stanford University, conducts foundational research on Latino-owned businesses, and builds an ecosystem of scaled Latino-owned companies, mentors, capital providers, and corporate partners. Jennifer’s vision has enabled entrepreneurs to access capital, public and private contracts, resources, and access to ongoing education.

Panelist | Leo Robles

Leo Robles is a nationally recognized real estate executive, entrepreneur, and growth strategist serving as Chief Growth Officer of the Designated Local Expert Network. Throughout his career, he has helped drive business growth, market expansion, and strategic partnerships within the real estate industry. Known for his expertise in leadership, branding, and relationship-building, Leo works with professionals and organizations seeking to create long-term value through innovation and community engagement. His experience offers unique insights into wealth creation, entrepreneurship, and the evolving housing marketplace.

Panelist | Josh Krakower

Josh Krakower is a Private Mortgage Banker and member of the prestigious Leaders Club at Wells Fargo Home Lending. He specializes in serving affluent clients, business owners, and professionals with sophisticated lending solutions tailored to their financial goals. Recognized for his expertise in residential financing and wealth-building strategies, Josh helps clients navigate complex financial decisions while aligning mortgage planning with broader investment and wealth management objectives. His experience provides valuable perspectives on capital access, market trends, and long-term financial planning.

Gloria Gregor

Gloria Gregor

Jennifer Garcia

Jennifer Garcia

Josh Krakower

Josh Krakower

2026_MilestoneHonoree_HildaRamirez_1920LR

FUNDING PARTNER

Wells Fargo Logo

HL | Culture & Influence is proud to announce Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the HL | Milestone Series “an invitation-only” leadership experience recognizing individuals and organizations shaping business, community, and culture.

As part of this collaboration, Wells Fargo will support the Milestone Series across three key markets in 2026: Orange County, New York, and Silicon Valley.

“We are proud to collaborate with Wells Fargo as a Funding Partner of the Milestone Series,” said Richard Sandoval, Storyteller | Producer | Connector, HL | Culture & Influence. “Their support allows us to elevate conversations, recognize leadership, and create spaces where relationships and ideas can move forward with purpose.”

MILESTONE HONOREES

Milestone | Judith Valles

HL | Milestone SeriesFor generations, Mayor Judith Valles represented the very best in public service. As an educator, trailblazer, and the first Hispanic elected Mayor of the City of San Bernardino, she dedicated her life to expanding opportunities for others while...

A Question Worth Asking

HL | Milestone SeriesHow a conversation between a high school student and artist Carlos Pérez became one of the most memorable moments of the HL | Milestone Series in Silicon Valley.Photos and article by Richard SandovalArtist and designer Carlos Pérez with Nicholas...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Jazmin Diaz

Growth • Purpose • Impact When Jazmin Diaz founded Flourish Learning & Development, she transformed a lifetime of personal resilience, professional achievement, and leadership experience into a mission dedicated to helping others grow with intention, confidence,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Paleta Planeta

Family • Vision • Impact Some businesses begin with a business plan. Others begin with family. For brothers Luis Salazar, Mauricio Salazar, and Gabriel Salazar, the journey that would become Paleta Planeta started during one of the most uncertain periods in recent...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Hilda Ramirez

Leadership • Opportunity • Impact For Hilda Ramirez, leadership has never been defined solely by transactions or titles. It has been measured by the opportunities she creates for others, the professionals she mentors, and the families she helps move closer to...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Rocio Medina van Nierop

Purpose • Influence • Courage When Rocio Medina van Nierop co-founded Latinas in Tech in 2014, she set out to create opportunities for Latina professionals in an industry where representation at leadership levels remained limited. What began as a vision to support and...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors OSI Engineering

Leadership, Innovation & Community Impact Some companies are built to generate revenue. Others are built to create opportunity. OSI Engineering has accomplished both. In Silicon Valley, success is often measured by innovation, growth, and market influence. Yet the...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Gloria Mirazo Gregor

Leadership, Influence & Legacy Throughout her career, Gloria Mirazo Gregor has helped families achieve one of life's most important milestones homeownership. As a respected mortgage banking executive and community leader, her influence extends beyond lending,...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Dr. Marilyn Flores 

Breaking Barriers. Expanding Opportunity. Transforming Lives. When Dr. Marilyn Flores was appointed President of San José City College, she became the first Latina president in the institution's more than 100-year history a milestone that reflects decades of...

HL | Milestone Series – Honors Julian Cañete

Culture • Influence • Legacy Some leaders advocate for business. Others dedicate their careers to creating opportunities that allow businesses, entrepreneurs, and communities to thrive. Julian Cañete has spent more than two decades doing exactly that. As President and...

THE EXPERIENCE

A curated, invitation-only reception

A leadership forum featuring market-relevant insights

Recognition of selected honorees

An elevated setting designed for meaningful engagement

Upcoming Events

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Honoree Moments