Claudia grew up in Arlington Heights, but it wasn’t until the Mission Inn reopened in the early 1990s that she truly fell in love with Riverside’s history. That passion for local heritage stayed with her through a 35-year career in the insurance industry, where she rose to an executive role leading a nationwide operation.
After decades of long hours and commuting to Orange County, Claudia retired and turned her focus to family and community. Inspired by her siblings’ “Walk of the Week,” she set out to visit all 149 of Riverside’s Cultural Landmarks—an accomplishment she now proudly claims. She deepened her involvement by joining the Old Riverside Foundation, Friends of Mt. Rubidoux, Riverside Museum Associates, Mission Inn Foundation, and Riverside Historical Society. She also became a member of the Riverside Woman’s Club and the City of Riverside’s Nonprofit Collaborative, staying engaged in preserving the city’s cultural legacy.
Claudia and her husband raised their daughter here, and she’s proud to see her carry on their family’s Riverside pride—just as she once did, exploring a city that has always felt like home.
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside means community, family, and an appreciation for history. Seeing people dedicated to preserving their homes and workplaces during my visits to all the Landmarks was inspiring. The city’s history, the community spirit, and efforts to grow set Riverside apart from other large cities. Plus, with the unique Raincross symbol, Riverside is hard to beat!
What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? Too many to count! I try to go up weekly to enjoy the views, get some extra steps, and help maintain the trail for visitors.
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Templo Del Sol on University is my husband's favorite, and his happiness makes it mine too.
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? The County Courthouse. I was fortunate to visit for work during my time managing litigation claims.
What is your favorite Riverside small business? The Mission Inn Foundation store—I've been buying Riverside and Raincross items there for years.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? The Friends of Mt. Rubidoux, Riverside Museum Associates, Mission Inn Foundation, and the Riverside Historical Society. I serve on the boards of all four.
The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? We’ve gone opening night a few times, but midweek has been more convenient. I started bringing my leadership team for our winter business meeting at the Mission Inn, and I plan to keep that tradition going.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? I rotate between Antone’s (meatball on garlic bread), Backstreet (Schrader with extra mayo and au jus), and Butch’s (turkey on squaw).
What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? A walk up Mt. Rubidoux with my husband (and daughter if she can join), followed by one of our favorite sandwiches.
What is your favorite spot for a date night? Le Chat Noir is a gem I discovered later on.
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Tyler Mall. I walked there growing up and always stopped for a snack at Taco Tia on the way home.
What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? From a business perspective, Made. From a building perspective, the Carnegie Library.
If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? "Riverside - Explore our history, meet our people, and support our community!"
Finally, tell us what you’re working on right now and how our readers can support your efforts—whether it’s a project, passion, or cause close to your heart! I’ve been focused on the Booker T. Washington/Frank A. Miller tablet on Mt. Rubidoux, as well as working with the Mission Inn Foundation and Riverside Museum Associates on fundraisers. For the Riverside Historical Society, I’m writing two articles: one on Rosie Bonds for our Women in Riverside publication, and another on the Booker T. Tablet project for the 2025 RHS Journal. I encourage everyone to get involved in Riverside causes that align with your passion—your time and donations are always needed!
Neighbor of the Week is our way of celebrating the hidden heroes of Riverside—those who go above and beyond to make our community stronger, kinder, and more vibrant. We believe every remarkable Riversider deserves their story told. Know someone who’s making a difference? Nominate a Neighbor of the Week
