Ayra and Vandenberg Detail Riverside Life in Council Questionnaire

Aram Ayra of Ward 2 and Rich Vandenberg of Ward 4 provided detailed responses to a six-question survey released by the Raincross Gazette. The questionnaire, distributed to all city council candidates on October 26, asked respondents to identify their favorite local establishments, describe their ideal free Saturday, and explain how they view their neighborhoods. Both candidates submitted their answers by the October 30 deadline. Gracie Torres, also running for Ward 2, and incumbent Chuck Conder in Ward 4 did not respond before the publication date.

When asked to recommend a single meal for a visiting friend, Ayra described a multi-course itinerary that begins with a breakfast burrito at Tacos Che on University Street. She specified swapping potatoes for French fries and adding house-made salsa verde. Her list continues with acai bowls at Juju Bar, a chicken salad sandwich at Upper Crust Sandwich Shoppe, and dinner at either Le Chat Noir or Devereaux House. Vandenberg recommended Las Campanas at the Mission Inn. He suggested ordering the carne asada burrito, a margarita, and the tableside guacamole, citing the outdoor dining atmosphere alongside the historic building as a key part of the experience.

In describing unique aspects of their respective wards, Ayra pointed to the wild donkeys that inhabit the northeast part of Ward 2. She described the animals as unofficial mascots for the community and UC Riverside, noting that residents frequently stop to photograph the herds in front yards. Vandenberg highlighted the scent of orange blossoms along Victoria Avenue during the spring. He connected the fragrance to the city's citrus heritage, referring to the Greenbelt and its groves as a living reminder of the industry that helped build Riverside.

For a free Saturday with no campaign obligations, Ayra plans to spend time in local parks and nature settings. She mentioned walking up Mt. Rubidoux, viewing sunrises at Sycamore Highlands Park, and visiting the UCR Botanic Gardens or Citrus State Historic Park. Vandenberg's routine begins with a stop at Winchell’s Donuts on Chicago Avenue. He then walks along Orange Street from the Convention Center to Fremont Elementary School, often accompanied by his father, sisters, wife, or granddaughter. He visits the farmers market for produce and eggs, then purchases carne asada and tortillas from Los Novillos on Main Street. Vandenberg noted that he used to walk to that same location as a child when it was known as L&L Market.

Regarding personal interests not widely known to voters, Ayra discussed her passion for cooking pizza from scratch. She saved money to buy a portable pizza oven and expressed a desire to run a small pop-up pizza spot in another life. Vandenberg detailed his history with classic muscle cars. He cited restoring a 1968 Mustang with his son and completing a seven-year restoration of a 1970 Dodge Challenger. He also revealed that he and his wife owned a skateboard and clothing shop called Local Threads in the early 2000s at the corner of Magnolia Avenue and Merrill Avenue.

Both candidates identified specific individuals who influenced their views on public service. Ayra credited Yolanda Esquivel, Kevin Dawson, and Professor Ron Loveridge. Esquivel taught her the value of relationship building, Dawson introduced her to neighborhood advocacy at UC Riverside, and Loveridge mentored her on local government. Vandenberg credited Coach Johnson, his basketball coach at Rubidoux High School in the early 1990s. Vandenberg stated that Johnson taught him the importance of punctuality, teamwork, and accountability, lessons he attributes to his current approach to life and service.

The survey concluded with a question about a theme song for Riverside. Ayra selected "Anyone Who Knows What Love Is (Will Understand)" by Irma Thomas, describing it as a song about a love that runs deeper than what outsiders can see. She said the choice reflects her view that the city is worth loving despite its flaws. Vandenberg chose "My Hometown" by Bruce Springsteen. He described Riverside as a place that provided opportunities and shaped his values, stating that his love for the city has remained constant through its changes and challenges.